Improving the knowledge base on material flow analysis for Asian developing countries: A case study of Lao PDR

•This is the first study of EW-MFA in Lao PDR, focusing on material extraction and trade using national statistics.•The new dataset of MFA in Lao PDR covers the years 1988–2015.•The results show significant differences from a previous study that relied on international datasets.•This study provides an evidence base for resource policy in Lao PDR.