Gov't Tightens Control on Mineral Exploitation

The government of Vietnam recently issued a new decree, tightening control over mineral exploitation, state media reported.

 

Under the decree, administrative violations on mineral exploitation will face fines between VND100 million ($6,250) and VND10,000 ($62.50).

 

The fines will be applied for exploitation of minerals for cement production and construction material without using industrial explosives; peat, ashlar paving stone or tonic water exploitation; outdoor and pit mineral exploitation, and special, toxic, rare and precious mineral exploitation.

 

The government also stipulates administrative punishments for violations including mineral exploitation without licenses or with expired or illegally commissioned licenses.

 

Recently, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung asked for continuing administrative reform in the management of natural resources and environment, focusing on land, water and mineral resources.

 

“The only way to ensure the national growth rate is the effective use and protection of natural resources and the environment,” said the PM, adding that policies on public management of natural resources and the environment, land and minerals should be reviewed and completed in accordance with the developing market economy and international integration. (Vietnam Law, VNA)