On June 26, 2024, the Mayor of Vientiane, Laos, accompanied by leaders from the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the Ministry of Finance, and other government agencies, conducted an on-site inspection of the Thongmang mining area. This area is being jointly developed by Ruiyuan Richfield Sylvine Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of SK Agricultural Technic Sole Co., Ltd., and Sino-Lao Potash Mining Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Yuntianhua Group Co., Ltd. The purpose of this visit was to understand the progress of the mining development, environmental protection measures, and future development plans.
The inspection team first visited the mechanical equipment workshop. Soukkaseum Silimoungkhoun, Chairman of Ruiyuan Richfield Sylvine Co., Ltd., introduced the world’s first vertical mining machine, independently developed by the company, specifically designed for the characteristics of potash mines in the Vientiane Basin. This equipment is more than five times more efficient than traditional mining equipment. The mayor highly praised the company’s innovation capabilities and technical level and expressed strong interest in the practical application of the equipment.
After visiting the mechanical equipment workshop, the mayor and his team proceeded to the main and auxiliary shafts of the mining area. On-site, Silimoungkhoun provided a detailed introduction to the overall layout of the mining area, mining methods, and safety management measures. The mayor expressed high appreciation for the modern construction and efficient management system of the mining shafts.
Next, the inspection team visited the flotation workshop, which is a core facility for potash purification. Silimoungkhoun explained the potash flotation process, equipment operating principles, and environmental protection measures taken during production. The mayor affirmed the workshop’s efficient production and environmental measures and inquired about the application of related technologies.
Subsequently, the inspection team visited the tailings pond, a critical component for treating industrial wastewater in the mining area. Leaders from the environmental protection department were particularly concerned about the construction standards and wastewater treatment technologies of the tailings pond. Silimoungkhoun provided a detailed explanation of the design concept, operating mechanism, and the quality standards of the treated water. The mayor praised the efforts made by the mining area in environmental protection and expressed hope that the company would continue to strengthen its environmental measures to ensure the sustainable development of the mining area.
During the inspection, Ruiyuan Richfield provided a comprehensive introduction to the mining development situation, including resource reserves, mining plans, and future development strategies. Additionally, the company answered related questions raised by the mayor and government leaders in detail. The company’s representatives stated that they would continue to uphold high environmental standards and promote green development of the mining area.
In his concluding remarks, the mayor stated that this inspection enhanced the government’s understanding of mining development and environmental protection work. He expressed high recognition of the work carried out by Ruiyuan Richfield and emphasized that resource development must balance with environmental protection. The mayor expressed hope that Ruiyuan Richfield would continue to lead the industry and promote the sustainable development of Laos’ mining sector.
This inspection not only fostered communication between the government and enterprises but also provided valuable guidance for Ruiyuan Richfield in mining development and environmental governance. Ruiyuan Richfield will take this inspection as an opportunity to further improve mining management and contribute more to the economic development and ecological protection of Laos.