Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has announced new measures to address the environmental concerns raised by members of the National Assembly, particularly regarding the mining industry. During the 8th Ordinary Session of the 9th National Assembly on November 26, Sonexay emphasized the government’s increased efforts to mitigate the detrimental effects of development projects, including the permanent suspension of alluvial gold mining projects and stricter regulations on existing contracts.

The government will take significant steps to protect the environment, including reducing or eliminating concessions in forest-rich zones, while banning new projects in protected forests. Stricter environmental assessments will be implemented for projects near water bodies, farmlands, and residential areas. Developers will now be required to follow detailed operational plans and ensure proper management and closure of their projects, with non-compliance resulting in warnings, suspensions, or loss of concessions.

In addition, the government is focusing on local mineral processing to add value while conserving natural resources. Efforts will also focus on repairing damaged roads and improving the management of mineral transportation.

To protect livelihoods and prevent deforestation, agricultural and forestry concessions will be restricted. Developers must collaborate directly with local communities through contract farming, ensuring their operations do not harm protected forests or areas critical to residents’ livelihoods.

The government’s new measures aim to balance economic development with environmental sustainability and create value-added jobs in Laos.

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