(KPL) The recommendations were made on October 6 during the second ordinary session of the 10th National Assembly as members discussed the government's report on implementation of the 2026 National Socio-Economic Development Plan, State Budget Plan and Monetary Plan, along with directions for 2027.

Members acknowledged progress made during the first nine months of the year but called for stronger action to address outstanding challenges, particularly in the mining sector.

They proposed developing a clear national mineral strategy that classifies minerals into those to be promoted, controlled and reserved as strategic national resources. Members also called for a review of mining concessions to ensure that economic returns to the State and local communities are proportionate to the use of natural resources and environmental impacts.

Mr Akhom Praserth, NA member for Constituency 13, Savannakhet Province, urged the government to strengthen oversight of mining concessions using modern technology to verify production volumes, tax payments and other financial obligations.

He also called for greater domestic processing and value addition instead of exporting raw minerals, saying this could create jobs and increase national revenue. Mining companies should be required to properly manage tailings, wastewater and pollution and restore affected land and forests, with post-closure responsibilities clearly assigned to project operators rather than the State.

Mr Akhom also stressed that local communities should benefit through employment, vocational training and infrastructure development, with effective mechanisms to address community concerns.

Mrs Soyphet Thongsombut, NA member for Constituency 8, Houaphanh Province, proposed suspending new approvals for some rare-earth exploration and survey projects, citing concerns over their potential effects on local livelihoods and the environment.

She also called for the government to explore alternative fuel supply sources, including imports from Vietnam, to help reduce transport-related costs and fuel price pressures in remote provinces.

Mrs Soyphet further proposed allowing residents of Houaphanh to apply for passports within the province instead of travelling to Xiengkhouang Province.

Mrs Kexone Saengyavong, NA member for Constituency 3, Luang Namtha Province, called for a nationwide review of land lease and concession agreements to prevent land speculation and misuse. She also urged local authorities to inspect agricultural investment projects to ensure they comply with approved plans.

She called for stronger public health oversight, including stricter monitoring of pharmacies and enforcement of existing regulations to protect public safety.

Other NA members called for faster repairs to damaged national and local roads, including rural access routes, and urged the government to address education challenges in rural areas, including student dropouts, teacher shortages, school facilities and access roads.

Members stressed that mineral development should be assessed not only by the volume of resources extracted, but also by the revenue generated for the State, benefits delivered to local communities, environmental protection and the conservation of natural resources for future generations.

KPL