Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Viet Son holds working session with Viet Nam Department of Geology and Minerals

According to a report by the Viet Nam Department of Geology and Minerals, while carrying out its assigned political tasks and undergoing its transfer to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), the Department has proactively reorganised its work to ensure that state management of geology and minerals continues smoothly and without interruption.

During the first nine months of 2026, considerable attention was given to improving the regulatory framework. The Department advised on the signing and issuance of 10 circulars, from Circular No. 51/2026/TT-BCT to Circular No. 60/2026/TT-BCT, dated September 15, 2026, covering a range of specialised matters related to basic geological surveys, geological surveys of mineral resources, mineral exploitation and exploration, mine closure, and mineral management activities.

The Department also advised on the issuance of Decision No. 2329/QD-BCT dated September 17, 2026, announcing new administrative procedures in the geology and minerals sector under the state management of MoIT. These measures have contributed to establishing a consistent legal framework for management following the transfer.

Regarding the development of legal documents, the Department is focusing on completing several important documents, including a draft decree on administrative penalties for violations in the minerals sector.

Notably, for the draft revised Law on Geology and Minerals, the Department is working to complete the policy impact assessment dossier for submission to MoIT leaders and subsequently to the Ministry of Justice for appraisal, with a view to ensuring that the draft law remains on schedule for submission to the National Assembly at its session in October 2027.

Another key task being undertaken by the Department is the review and coordination of supplies of common construction materials for nationally important projects and works. Based on its work with localities, the Department has reviewed and assessed supply and demand and developed a coordination plan.

At the working session, the Viet Nam Department of Geology and Minerals also reported on several key tasks for the remaining months of 2026, along with proposals and recommendations concerning the development and improvement of the regulatory framework; adjustments to geological and mineral planning; the management and coordination of mineral resources used as common construction materials; the application of science and technology; and organisational and personnel matters.

After hearing reports from leaders of the Viet Nam Department of Geology and Minerals, representatives of units under MoIT exchanged views and clarified several issues concerning the progress of developing legal documents, planning, science and technology, as well as the Department’s proposals and recommendations.

Addressing the working session, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Viet Son asked the Viet Nam Department of Geology and Minerals to focus on key tasks, particularly improving the regulatory framework, adjusting relevant planning and addressing obstacles arising from the practical management of geology and minerals.

Regarding the draft revised Law on Geology and Minerals, the Deputy Minister called for faster progress in preparing the policy dossier while ensuring its quality and full compliance with prescribed processes and procedures.

Accordingly, relevant units need to focus on completing the dossier, collecting opinions and carrying out the required appraisal and submission procedures to ensure that the draft law is presented to the National Assembly at its fourth session in October 2027.

Regarding planning, Deputy Minister Nguyen Viet Son requested that the review and adjustment process closely reflect practical conditions, with clear identification of the legal grounds and competent authorities responsible for addressing relevant issues.

Regarding Planning 866 in particular, the Department was asked to coordinate with relevant units under MoIT to review the issues and reach agreement on an appropriate approach. The draft submission must clearly identify the specific regulations causing obstacles and the authorities competent to address them. The Department was also requested to promptly complete the dossier, as many projects depend on the progress of adjustments to this planning.