Most of these will now be delayed, including the biggest and most controversial, known as Nam Theun 2, which is anyway plagued by financing difficulties and environmental criticism.

ECONOMIST: When growth switches off

Nam Theun-2, however, has become a test case for the World Bank in its effort to spur private-sector development even in the least creditworthy countries.

ECONOMIST: Laos

But opponents argue that the real risks are being taken by Laos, in investing so much hope in Nam Theun-2 in particular, and dams in general.

ECONOMIST: Laos