As of today, the Lao government has authorized 968 companies to invest in the mining sector, including 297 companies approved by the central government and 671 firms by provincial administrations. This was announced by Minister of Energy and Mines Phoxay Sayasone during the 7th Ordinary Session of the National Assembly's 9th Legislature on June 12.

Minister Phoxay reported that 93 mining projects have been exemplary, including 37 iron ore projects, two marble projects, 10 gold ore projects, 31 projects involving gold and other minerals, and 13 rare earth projects. These projects collectively cover 3,186.15 square kilometers, which is 1.35% of the country's area.

The Lao PDR’s mineral deposit is estimated at 14.6 billion tons, with potassium making up the largest portion at 10.12 billion tons, followed by limestone at 2.18 billion tons, coal at 845 million tons, and gold at 201 million tons.

In 2023, the production of processed and unprocessed minerals reached 2.43 billion United States Dollars, with domestic sales valued at 273.6 million United States Dollars and exports estimated at 2.6 billion United States Dollars. Taxes generated by the mining sector were approximately 322.6 million United States Dollars.

During the session, National Assembly member Khonpaphan Leuangsichanseng from Huaphan Province called for the government to halt pilot mining projects, especially those involving rare earths. Similarly, Lummai Philavong from Vientiane Province urged the government to inspect pilot projects to ensure they meet sustainable development and environmental standards.