Laos can do more to mitigate chemical pollution of rivers flowing into Vietnam (analysis)
Laos' rapid expansion of rare earth and gold mining is contaminating rivers that flow into Vietnam, posing a 'silent' threat to millions of downstream users due to toxic runoff, particularly arsenic. Weak enforcement and lack of a dedicated Laos-Vietnam monitoring framework leave these shared rivers vulnerable.
Laos is contaminating rivers that flow into Vietnam with toxic runoff from rare earth and gold mining. The Nam Ma, Nam Sam, and Nam Neun rivers in northeastern Laos flow into Vietnam as the Song Ma, Song Chu, and Song Lam rivers, sustaining drinking water, agriculture, and fisheries for approximately 10 million people. Satellite analysis shows 21 mines directly impacting these river systems in Laos. The extraction of rare earths and gold relies on aggressive chemicals, including cyanide and mercury, leading to leaching of heavy metals into waterways. In February 2024, a chemical leak at Houaphanh's largest rare earth mining site leaked chemicals into the Nam Sam, causing fish die-offs. Laos and Vietnam need stronger cross-border cooperation and safeguards to mitigate the risks.
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