Government Decree No.252 on Mine Closure.

This Government Decree establishes the comprehensive regulatory framework for the closure of mines within the Lao PDR. It aims to ensure that the cessation of mining activities is conducted safely, systematically, and responsibly, specifically focusing on the long-term protection of the environment and the health of local communities.
The Government Decree mandates that mining operators develop detailed mine closure plans, which must include technical strategies for land reclamation and the restoration of ecosystems. It establishes a financial assurance mechanism, requiring companies to contribute to a dedicated fund to guarantee that closure and environmental rehabilitation costs are covered even if a business fails.
Specifically, the Government Decree outlines the responsibilities of the Ministry of Energy and Mines and provincial authorities in monitoring the phased decommissioning of facilities. It stipulates rigorous inspection procedures to verify that sites are physically stable and chemically safe before the government officially accepts the returned land, providing a legal basis for penalties or rewards based on compliance.