KPL
The Department of Geology and Mining has formally instructed the management of Dao Chaleun Co., to immediately suspend all unlicenced iron mining and processing operations in Vang Vieng district, Vientiane Province.
The directive follows a joint field inspection conducted early this month by technical experts from the Department of Geology and Mining, the Vang Vieng District Office of Industry and Commerce, and local authorities.
The inspection revealed that the company had been carrying out unlicenced mining activities in breach of the Law on Minerals (2017 revision) and relevant regulations. Authorities noted that the operations have caused significant environmental degradation, specifically turning the waters of the Song River turbid.
Key Orders Issued
To ensure the strict enforcement of mineral resource management laws, the department has mandated the immediate suspension of all mineral extraction, processing, and related mining activities until official instructions and guidelines are issued by the government regarding new investment project approvals.
The department requires the company to promptly rehabilitate and restore affected environmental areas to their normal state, under the supervision of the Vang Vieng District Office of Industry and Commerce and the Long Cheng District Office of Industry and Commerce in Xaisomboun Province.
It also warns that any violation or continuation of unlicenced mining activities will result in strict legal prosecution and punitive measures under the Law on Minerals and other applicable laws.
Regulatory Fines and Warnings
It is expected that the Department of Geology and Mining will coordinate with relevant offices to implement Prime Minister's Office Notice No. 871/PMO, dated 26 June 2026, which summons company representatives to receive formal warning records and face regulatory fines.
KPL
