Chaleun Sekong Group (CSG) is a Lao conglomerate operating within several sectors in Southeast Asia. CSG is controlled by Lao businessman Chanthanome Phommany, and is known for its commercial relationships with the Lao government.
History The group’s origins trace back to 2008 with the establishment of Chaleun Sekong Construction Co., Ltd, founded by Chanthanome Phommany. Initially focused on local infrastructure and timber manufacturing, the company underwent expansion between 2012 and 2015, transitioning into a holding group.
Hydropower Chaleun Sekong Group has interests in hydropower projects in Laos, including the Nam Kong 2 and Nam Kong 3 projects in the country's south. In 2021, Électricité du Laos agreed to transfer an 80% stake in the 480 MW Nam Ngum 3 Hydropower Project to a partnership involving Chaleun Sekong and the international investment arm of Thailand's Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. The proposed transfer was part of efforts to address the financial position of Électricité du Laos.
Banking and Financial Services In 2021, CSG was involved in the privatization of the Lao Development Bank (LDB), acquiring a 70% stake in a joint venture with the Ministry of Finance of Laos, through its subsidiary, Chaleun Sekong Energy.
In 2026, online reports alleged that Lao Development Bank (LDB) was involved money laundering through payment-gateway services for scam networks, online gambling operations and other illegal businesses, and named Chanthanome Phommany, group chairman and head of Chaleun Sekong Energy, as being directly involved in the alleged activities.
Regional Operations in the Golden Triangle SEZ CSG maintains extensive operations within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) in Bokeo Province. The group's presence in the zone is primarily facilitated through its dedicated LDB branch infrastructure, which supports regional trade and infrastructure development. CSG’s operations largely consist of work with sanctioned Chinese entities and individuals, who are operating the zone.https://www.unodc.org/roseap/uploads/documents/Publications/2024/TOC_Convergence_Report_2024.pdf
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