Lao and Vietnamese officials reopen the potash mine in Khammuan province.

Vinachem potash project resumes operation in Khammuan
 
A potash mine in Khammuan province has reopened with a target production capacity of 320,000 tonnes per year, in a move expected to boost Laos’ fertiliser production and reduce reliance on imports in the long term.
A ceremony to mark the reopening of the potash mining and processing project operated by Viet-Lao Chemical and Salt Company Limited (Vinachem) took place recently in Muangkhai village, Nongbok district.
The ceremony was attended by the Chairman of the Khammuan Administration Committee, Dr Somsa-art Ounsida, Deputy Minister of Industry and

A bird’s eye view of the potash mine and processing plant in Khammuan province.

Commerce Phouthavanh Nanthavong, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Minh Tam, company representatives and government officials.
The company signed a concession agreement with the Lao government on February 9, 2012. The 25-year concession runs until February 8, 2037, covering an area of 1,000 hectares with estimated potassium ore resources of more than 32 million tonnes, according to the Khammuan News.
Mr Phouthavanh said the resumption of operations would help add value to mineral resources, generate more revenue for the state and create jobs.
He urged the company to accelerate improvements to its feasibility studies and environmental and social impact assessments. He also stressed the need to manage mine tailings, monitor soil and groundwater subsidence, and fulfil legal obligations.
Dr Somsa-art said the project was important to the province’s industrial development and was expected to generate income, create employment opportunities, and improve local people’s livelihoods.
He called on the relevant parties to facilitate and cooperate with the project to ensure its implementation in line with the plan, the law, and environmental requirements.
The project is expected to support the production of potash and nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilisers, helping reduce dependence on imported fertilisers while also strengthening economic ties between Laos and Vietnam.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update October 14, 2026)