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Continuing their working programme in the Lao PDR, on 6th August 2026, Mr. Phùng Quang Hiệp, Party Secretary and Chairman of the Members’ Council of Vietnam National Chemical Group (Vinachem), together with the Group’s delegation, held a meeting to report to Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister of Laos, on the progress of the potash mining and processing project in Nongbok district, Khammouane province. The meeting also addressed a number of proposals aimed at resolving difficulties and accelerating project implementation. Representatives of the Lao ministries of Industry and Trade, Finance, Agriculture and Environment were also in attendance.

On behalf of Vinachem, Mr. Phùng Quang Hiệp expressed sincere thanks to the Lao Government, Deputy Prime Minister, ministries, the Laos–Vietnam Cooperation Committee, Khammouane provincial authorities, and all Lao agencies for their continuous support and close cooperation throughout the project.

In his report, Mr. Phùng Quang Hiệp affirmed that the potash mining and processing project is of great significance to Vinachem and to the special friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos. For Vietnam, the project will help ensure a proactive potash supply for fertiliser production, meeting the needs of the agriculture sector and reducing reliance on imports.

He noted that, under the direction of the competent authorities of both countries, Vinachem has been actively working with Lao agencies and related units, carrying out necessary steps in accordance with regulations. In recent times, the Group has sent several delegations to Laos to work with ministries, Khammouane provincial authorities, and relevant agencies to accelerate the project, promptly address difficulties, and resolve issues arising during implementation.

To date, many key components have been completed. Vinachem has finalised the revised Feasibility Study (FS), which the consultant has assessed as technically feasible and economically effective, while also contributing to socio-economic development and job creation in the locality. The report is currently under review by the Lao authorities.

In addition, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been completed and is now undergoing appraisal. Vinachem will continue to coordinate closely with the consultant and Lao authorities to complete the documentation as required, providing the basis for the next stages of the project.

Reporting further to the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Phùng Quang Hiệp emphasised that Vinachem is working closely with agencies in both countries and related units to finalise all procedures in accordance with regulations, and to prepare all necessary conditions to accelerate project implementation. The Group reaffirms its commitment to mobilising resources and working closely with Lao ministries, agencies, and provinces to enable the project to move to the next phase as soon as all requirements are met.

To speed up the process, Vinachem called on the Lao Deputy Prime Minister to continue to provide direction to relevant ministries to support the completion of project procedures; expedite the appraisal and approval of the FS and EIA; and consider appropriate mechanisms and policies to facilitate smooth project implementation in line with the agreements between both sides.

The Group also requested that relevant agencies and the Khammouane provincial authorities continue to coordinate and support the preparation and implementation of project components in accordance with Lao law, thereby shortening the investment preparation period and improving project effectiveness.

In his remarks, the Lao Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged Vinachem’s efforts to implement the project to date and affirmed that Lao authorities would continue to cooperate, review the Group’s proposals in accordance with regulations, and create favourable conditions for timely and effective project implementation, thereby promoting economic cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting took place in a spirit of openness and constructiveness, reflecting the determination of Vinachem and the Lao authorities to enhance coordination, address obstacles, and accelerate the potash mining and processing project. Once implemented, the project is expected to make a positive contribution to the socio-economic development of Khammouane province and further strengthen the special friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos.