Rare Earth Mining Expansion in Laos Threatens Mekong River
New data reveals a surge in rare earth mines across river basins in Laos, posing a transboundary water pollution threat to Vietnam and the entire Mekong River system.
Research by the U.S.-based Stimson Center has identified 27 rare earth mines that have opened in Laos since 2022, with 23 of them located in protected areas.
- 7 new mines were identified via satellite imagery analysis as having opened this year
- Chinese demand for rare earth minerals is driving the industry's expansion into Laos
- Rare earth mineral extraction is currently illegal in Laos, but it's unclear if the mines are operating with permission
The new findings suggest that Chinese demand for rare earth minerals has led to the industry’s expansion into Laos.
Author's summary: Laos rare earth mining threatens Mekong River.