Vietnam seeks to tighten control over rare earths for national security

At a meeting on Oct. 14, the National Assembly Standing Committee reviewed a draft amendment to the Law on Geology and Minerals that would give the central government exclusive authority over the exploration, mining and processing of rare earths, with no delegation to local authorities. The goal, officials said, is to ensure national defense, security and sustainable development.

Under the proposal, only organizations and enterprises designated or approved by the state would be allowed to operate in this sector, and exporting unprocessed ore would be strictly prohibited. The government would directly fund geological surveys and exploration to guarantee efficient and environmentally responsible use.

Acting Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Duc Thang said rare earths play a "strategic role" in critical industries such as semiconductors, renewable energy, defense technology and electric vehicle batteries. Global demand is expected to soar in the next decade alongside the rise of high-tech manufacturing and clean energy.

Nguyen Thanh Hai, head of the National Assembly's Delegate Affairs Committee, said Vietnam's rare earth reserves represent a major competitive advantage in the global supply chain. She urged for measures to prevent resource loss and violations.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha added that the government plans to establish a central agency with the expertise and technology needed to oversee all stages of exploration, extraction, processing and technology transfers.

The draft law is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly for approval at its 10th session.