Việt Nam seeks to streamline mineral resource management with new law

Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà chairs the meeting on Monday. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Mineral management must be streamlined to prevent overlapping responsibilities, ensuring clear accountability and efficient decision-making.

That’s according to Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà speaking at the meeting on the draft Law on Geology and Minerals on Monday.

The Deputy PM gave specific instructions regarding criteria for cases requiring or not needing auctions for mineral exploitation rights, handling and resolving overlaps between mineral planning and other plannings, and using land and waste from mining activities as fill material.

The draft law was previously discussed at the 7th session of the National Assembly (NA) and was being refined based on input from various ministries and stakeholders.

At the meeting, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Trần Quý Kiên advocated for a more scientific approach to issues such as assigning responsibility for mineral planning, defining the scope of areas subject to mineral rights auctions and addressing planning overlaps.

He argued that a more precise delineation of the law’s scope would enhance its feasibility and coherence.

The NA’s Standing Committee asked for input on whether the planning for mineral resources should be handled by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, or the Ministry of Construction.

In response to the committee, lawmakers incorporated it into the draft law that the National Mineral Reserve Assessment Council has the authority to recognise the results of mineral exploration activities approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

Representatives from other ministries discussed revising regulations on mineral exploration fees, investment reimbursement, right auctions and mineral processing.

“The draft law must be refined to reflect modern practices and technologies, making the process more efficient and environmentally friendly,” said the Deputy PM.

He also said the draft law must provide a framework for funding and managing the exploration of valuable minerals, ensuring that these activities contribute to the overall economic and social development of the country.

He called on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to work diligently to incorporate valuable feedback from all stakeholders to produce a comprehensive and high-quality draft law that will garner broad support within the National Assembly. — VNS