Lao Coca-Cola Bottling Co., a joint venture between Thai Namthip Limited, a Coca-Cola bottler in Thailand and Lao firm PT Sole Co., has opened its first Coca-Cola bottling plant in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Located in Saithani District of Vientiane province, the plant will produce sparkling beverages including Coca-Cola, Fanta, and Sprite, intended for the domestic market.

The plant may add still beverage production lines in the future, said the company.

The plant is also expected to supply of some beverages to northeastern Thailand, complementing supply chain in the region.

Lao Coca-Cola Bottling Co., chairman Pornwut Sarasin said: "The inauguration of the Lao plant marks another significant step in ThaiNamthip’s regionalisation as one of the region’s most experienced beverage bottling and distribution businesses.

"We are committed to sharing within all AEC countries ThaiNamthip’s long and deep expertise in the production and distribution of beverages."

The Coca-Cola Company chairman and CEO Muhtar Kent said: "With the establishment of this plant, our business now proudly manufactures and distributes beverages locally in each of the ten ASEAN member countries, providing tangible economic benefit to the communities we serve."

The company has invested about $30m in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

In addition, Coca-Cola system has established three distribution centres, serving more than 4,300 retailers every week.

Sarasin added: "We expect the Coca-Cola system to invest a further $10m in the next two years."