01/01/2021: Digitalization of the kip
The Bank of the Lao PDR introduced digital payment systems and promoted cashless transactions to modernize the use of the kip in the digital era.
14/10/2013: Kip exchange rate liberalized
Laos liberalized its exchange rate regime, allowing the kip's value to be determined by market forces, leading to fluctuations in its value.
10/09/2008: Introduction of Birr Denominations
Ethiopia introduced new banknotes of different denominations in an effort to combat counterfeiting and improve security features.
02/07/1997: Lao kip devalued
Amidst the Asian financial crisis, the Lao government devalued the kip by approximately 20% against the US dollar.
27/05/1991: Introduction of Birr Coins
Ethiopia introduced coins for the birr denominations, replacing the previous notes.
02/05/1980: Revaluation of the kip
The Lao government initiated a revaluation of the kip, resulting in the exchange rate of 1 new kip to 100 old kip.
02/12/1976: Kip becomes the sole legal tender
The Lao kip was declared as the sole legal tender in Laos, replacing the use of other currencies within the country.
17/09/1976: Introduction of New Birr
A new birr was introduced, replacing the previous Ethiopian birr and being equal to 100 old birr.
01/01/1952: Currency reform
Laos implemented a currency reform that replaced the French Indochinese piastre with the new kip, at an exchange rate of 100 new kip to 1 old piastre.
12/10/1945: Lao kip introduced
The Lao kip was first introduced as the official currency of Laos following the country's liberation from French colonial rule.
08/07/1945: Decree to Change Birr Decimalization
Ethiopia changed the birr decimalization from talari and ghersh to dollars and cents.
31/12/1931: Introduction of Ethiopian birr
The Ethiopian birr was introduced as the official currency, replacing the Maria Theresa Thaler.
05/07/1931: Ethiopian Monetary Authority Established
The Ethiopian Monetary Authority was established to regulate the country's monetary system and issue currency.
14/02/1894: Introduction of Maria Theresa Thaler
Ethiopia adopted the Maria Theresa Thaler as the official currency, which remained in circulation until 1935.