The Ka-lừm coal mine spans an area of 770 sq. km, with an expected operational lifespan of 30 years and an estimated reserve of 800 million tons. (MPI/Vietnam+)
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On September 7-8, Nguyen Chi Dung, Minister of Planning and Investment and Chairman of the Vietnam-Laos Cooperation Committee, worked directly to address challenges faced by several Vietnamese investment projects in Southern Laos.
According to Minister Nguyen Chi Dung, Vietnamese ministries, sectors, and relevant agencies will create the most favorable conditions and request Laos to support in resolving difficulties for businesses to implement the projects.
Specifically, the delegation visited the Ka-lừm coal mine of Phon-sac Company and the proposed site for the Ka-lừm Thermal Power Plant of Vietnam Oil and Gas Power Corporation in Sekong Province. The locations of the two projects are about 120 km from the Vietnam border, via the La Lay border gate (Quang Tri). The Ka-lừm coal mine covers an area of 770 sq. km, with a 30-year operational period starting from 2012 and an estimated reserve of 800 million tons. Currently, the mine’s maximum annual capacity is about 20 million tons, with approximately 3 million tons of coal sold to Vietnam annually.
Meanwhile, the Sekong Thermal Power Project is seeking lending partners to contribute capital and participate in management, operation, and maintenance. The total investment for the project is estimated at 4.06 billion USD (including a 253 km transmission line to the Cambodian border). The designed capacity is approximately 1,800 MW, and construction is expected to commence in April 2025. The project could potentially achieve commercial operation for Unit 1 in January 2028 and Unit 6 in January 2030.
 The Sekong Thermal Power Project is seeking lending partners with a total investment of approximately 4.06 billion USD. (Photo: MPI/Vietnam+)
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At the site, Minister Nguyen Chi Dung listened to the enterprises’ presentations about the projects and some existing obstacles and challenges.
Additionally, the Ministry of Planning and Investment delegation visited the bauxite mining and alumina processing complex of Viet Phuong Group. The mine is estimated to hold 400 million tons of bauxite reserves, spanning an area of 400 sq. km, with a license period of 24 years. The projected investment is 1 billion USD, and exports are planned to commence in the second quarter of 2026.
According to Viet Phuong Group’s representative, the main products of the project are raw ore and refined ore. The final product is alumina, produced using the latest low-temperature vaporization technology. Notably, the project meets environmental standards, minimizes energy consumption, and discharges up to 70% dry red mud.
The Group’s leadership proposed that the Ministry of Planning and Investment of Laos create favorable conditions for the implementation of the Lakmang Thermal Power Project with a capacity of approximately 600 MW to provide electricity for alumina processing. This project is expected to create a value chain from coal, bauxite ore to alumina and aluminum. It will also produce industrial steam for the complex.
Minister Nguyen Chi Dung emphasized that Vietnam consistently ranks among the top three countries with the most significant investment in Laos. The Viet Phuong Group’s bauxite-alumina complex project is not only essential for Laos’ industry but also holds significance for the economic relationship between the two countries. The Minister commended Viet Phuong for choosing advanced technology for the project, maximizing natural resources, and processing alumina instead of exporting raw materials. This approach will create better economic value for Laos, potentially leading to aluminum production for export.
Minister Nguyen Chi Dung also expressed his gratitude to the Lao Minister of Planning and Investment, Mr. Khet Phomphiphac, for his coordination and support in addressing challenges related to the project.
Minister Nguyen Chi Dung underlined the importance of Viet Phuong Group’s compliance with local laws, the utilization of advanced technology, environmental protection, and simultaneous reclamation of mined areas. He also emphasized the Group’s responsibility to contribute to social welfare, fulfill its obligations to the Lao budget, and take care of the well-being of its employees, especially Vietnamese workers in Laos.
“I hope that the local authorities will create favorable conditions for businesses to thrive and resolve any difficulties they may encounter,” said Minister Nguyen Chi Dung. “The success of this project will be a testament to the strengthening of relations between our two countries. I hope that this project will serve as a model for cooperation between our nations in all domains.”
On behalf of Laos, Minister Khet Phomphiphac agreed to promote these projects and consolidate the bilateral relationship. He affirmed the Lao government’s strong support for Viet Phuong’s investment project. Regarding the remaining issues, both sides will work towards a common goal, adhering to the laws of Laos and international regulations.
“I concur with Minister Nguyen Chi Dung’s opinion on implementing the project to achieve the best outcomes for both parties, ensuring mutual benefits and environmental protection,” stated Minister Khet Phomphiphac. “Laos will provide the most favorable conditions, in accordance with its laws, for this project and other ventures.”
Hanh Nguyen
Japanese conglomerate owns largest $2.58 billion coal power plant in Vietnam: Partners with BRG for $4.2 billion project, investing in leading companies across multiple sectors
In Vietnam, our corporation has made investments and actively participated in various sectors of the Vietnamese economy, including industrial zones, urban railways, power plants, airport projects, logistics, and real estate. We have a diverse portfolio that reflects our commitment to contributing to the growth and development of Vietnam’s economy.
