The bauxite mining and alumina industry will provide impetus for socio-economic development in the Central Highlands.

The Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai said at a conference held in Hanoi on April 9 that Vietnam has a rich bauxite resource and is potential for the development of the bauxite mining and alumina industry, but has yet to make it. He insisted that the industrial development must be sustainable, requiring strict and scientific management solutions.
The Deputy PM instructed to adjust the master plan on zoning off the bauxite exploitation, processing and utilisation for the 2007-2015 period with a vision for 2025.

Due to Vietnam’s power shortage, the bauxite exploitation will initially serve alumina production, but long-term plans for aluminum production should be prepared.

He asked relevant agencies to coordinate with investors in training personnel for the industry, with priority given to ethnic minority locals and tighten their management to minimise effects on the natural environment, culture and people’s life in the Central Highlands.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam’s bauxite reserve is estimated at 5.4 billion tonnes, mainly located in the Central Highlands.

PV