The discovery is part of a large-scale geological survey of the Northwest Project approved by the Prime Minister in 2017 and undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MoAE).
Announcing the results of the survey on March 28, MoAE Deputy Minister Tran Quy Kien said experts have discovered 110 significant mineral deposits in the region, including 40 gold mines with reserves of nearly 30 tonnes, along with many other valuable mineral resources.
According to the official, the mineral deposits cover 25 different types such as rare earths, tin-wolfram, gold, copper, antimony, ornamental stone, and industrial limestone. Among them, there are 17 large-scale mines, 43 medium-sized mines, and 50 small mines exceeding the original target by more than double.
Notably, among the metal mines, 40 gold mines have been identified, with estimated reserves of more than 29.8 tonnes of gold. In addition, five copper mines have been found with total reserves exceeding 13,000 tonnes. Furthermore, at a copper mine in Lao Cai province, researchers have identified accompanying gold deposits, with estimated reserves of more than 420 kg of gold.
By integrating and standardizing the geological-mineral database of the Northwest region, the project has facilitated sustainable mineral planning, management, and exploitation. As a result, 62 areas with mineral potential have been included in the National Mineral Exploration Plan for 2021–2030, with a vision toward 2050.
The results of the survey not only provide valuable scientific data but also lay the foundation for promoting investment and sustainable development in the Northwest, a strategically important region of the country, said Deputy Minister Kien.
He urged relevant agencies, local authorities, and enterprises to continue working closely together, applying information technology and digital transformation in mineral resource management. He also emphasized the need to enhance monitoring capabilities to promptly detect and prevent illegal mining activities, to ensure the protection of natural resources.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is committed to continuing its support, facilitating the practical application of research findings, and making positive contributions to the development of the Northwest region in particular and the sustainable socio-economic growth of the country as a whole, stated the official.
