Why do officials in Laos charge money when exiting the country?

Travelers leaving Laos have reported being asked for a small exit fee by immigration officers, which can vary in amount. This practice may be attributed to unofficial charges imposed during off-duty hours or by individual officials, leading to mixed responses from expats regarding its legitimacy. While some assert that such fees are common and easily manageable, others perceive it as a potential scam or corruption. Discussions also touch upon the currency accepted, with baht being preferred over kip, and express frustrations about the lack of clarity surrounding these charges.