A Chinese company representative (second left) and Dr Anousack Phongsavath shake hands after signing an agreement. --Photo Loufa

Laos, China partner to establish mineral testing and research centre

Laos’ mining sector will receive a boost with the establishment of a new Minerals Testing and Research Centre, which will enhance the country’s capacity to analyse and certify minerals to international standards, and attract more investment in the industry.
The centre will be jointly developed by the Research Institute for Energy and Mines (RIEM) under the Ministry of Energy and Mines and a Chinese company, following the signing of a new cooperation agreement in Vientiane on May 5.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Director General of RIEM, Dr Anousack Phongsavath, said the agreement marks a significant step towards implementing a long-term strategic partnership between Laos and China in mineral development.
“It is a great honour to witness the signing of this agreement, which aims to implement comprehensive, stable and sustainable cooperation based on our shared mining development strategies,” he said.
The partnership is in line with the government’s development strategy for the energy and mining sector to 2030 and vision to 2040, which aims to transform Laos into an industrialised, modern, and environmentally friendly nation.
Under the agreement, the two sides will cooperate in key areas such as capacity building for RIEM staff, who will be trained to operate modern analytical equipment for mineral testing, including the analysis of ultra-pure gold (99.9999 percent).
Dr Anousack said the project would strengthen the Research Institute for Energy and Mines’ technical capabilities and international credibility, while also expanding testing and certification services for gold and other minerals to international standards, facilitating identification and boosting investor confidence.
The partnership will span five years, with the first two years dedicated to developing human resources and setting up a standardised and safe management system for laboratory operations.
“The goal of this partnership is to establish a Joint Research Laboratory that will provide sample analysis and mineral testing services to companies investing in mineral exploration and processing,” he said.
He added that RIEM will continue to collaborate with international organisations and foreign state-owned enterprises to seek funding for the development of a world-class mineral research and testing facility in Laos.
The new centre is expected to become a vital resource in promoting scientific research, innovation, and sustainable growth in the country’s mining sector.

By Souksamai Boulom
 (Latest Update May 8, 2025)