Han Chinese, Mandarin in Laos
Photo Source:
Jakob Montrasio - Wikimedia
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Han Chinese, Mandarin |
| Country: | Laos |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 71,000 |
| World Population: | 931,431,600 |
| Primary Language: | Chinese, Mandarin |
| Primary Religion: | Non-Religious |
| Christian Adherents: | 8.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 5.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Chinese |
| Affinity Bloc: | East Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Mandarin speakers are among the Han Chinese, the largest ethnic group worldwide. There is a Chinese diaspora in most countries. The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in other nations, particularly in Southeast Asia. That includes Laos, a country where Mandarin speakers reside.
Though there are many Chinese dialects spoken in China and Laos, one stands out. It is not from south China, but from north China, and it’s the official language of the PRC. It is Mandarin, the language the Chinese have used in business, government and academics since the early 20th century.
For hundreds of years, the Chinese have dominated the business world in Laos. This is still the case today.
What Are Their Lives Like?
China is a major partner in Laos’ economy. Chinese companies have entered to build roads, stadiums and buildings. Not only have they brought construction engineers and managers, but they have also brought cheap laborers which has added to Laos’ unemployment woes. Even small businesses from China are putting Laotian businesses out by providing cheap goods that can be sold for a profit by Chinese shop owners and merchants. Chinese businesses, small or large, dominate Laos. The Chinese even control Laos’ mining industry.
Mandarin Chinese in Laos keep their children in Chinese schools to reinforce their culture. They commonly go back and forth across the border with China.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Mandarin Chinese in Laos are secularized, but some have a strong faith in the Lord who can take the gospel to the unreached peoples of Laos.
What Are Their Needs?
Secularized thinking and a non-stop work schedule make the Mandarin Chinese unable to deal with their spiritual needs. There is also a great opportunity for Mandarin Chinese Christ-followers to take Christ to the many unreached people groups in Laos.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Lord to use vibrant Mandarin Chinese Christ followers to disciple the unreached people groups in Laos.
Pray for Chinese Christian believers to fill the bowls of incense with prayer for Laotians.
Pray for the Mandarin Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.