Deputy Prime Minister visits Laos-International Precious Metals Refinery

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Mr Santiphab Phomvihane, on July 17 conducted an official visit to monitor and encourage the operational progress and production processes at the Laos-International Precious Metals Refinery (LIPMER) in Vientiane.
The visit represents a highly significant milestone in enhancing the project's efficiency to actively contribute to national socio-economic development.
The Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation were warmly welcomed by the Chairman and Founder of LIPMER, Mr Chanthone Sitthixay, along with the executive management team.

Mr Chanthone briefed the Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation and led the group on a tour of the production facilities.
He stressed that the refinery is committed to raising its operational standards in line with the international standards of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) through the application of advanced technologies including quality-control laboratories and modern, highly accurate automated machinery and equipment, ensuring clean production that avoids environmental damage and is environmentally friendly.
Mr Chanthone also presented an overview and the strategic vision behind the establishment of LIPMER, saying the refinery represents an important step in implementing the Party and Government's policy to build and develop the ecosystem of Laos' gold industry to international standards.
He said the project aims to elevate the country's mineral industry — particularly gold, an abundant natural resource with significant untapped potential — to fully realise its added value.
This supports the aim of the Party Central Committee's Politburo to guide Laos on the path to creating an increasingly self-reliant and independent economy, as part of broader national development efforts.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister pledged continued support and praised the efforts and achievements of the executive management of LIPMER in establishing a facility with international standards and a clear commitment to LBMA compliance.
He described this as an important step and a milestone in the country's shift towards higher value-added production. He expressed confidence that the LIPMER would contribute significantly to strengthening Laos' economic base moving forward.

The Deputy Prime Minister also provided guidance to the executive management of LIPMER and the accompanying delegation on maintaining close coordination and collaboration, exchanging views on further steps to support the development of Laos' gold industry.
This joint effort aims to foster favourable conditions that will spur national socio-economic development.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update July 20, 2026)