The State Bank of Vietnam on Nov. 9 gave a nod to the Saigon-Hanoi Joint Stock Commercial Bank (SHB) to open a branch in Laos.

The branch will operate under the authorization of SHB and in accordance with the Lao laws.

Within 18 months, SHB is required to complete all legal procedures and prepare for infrastructure facilities and personnel so as to apply for Laos’ licence to open branch in the country./.