This article explains the 2026 revision of Vietnam's Mineral Law, including adjustments to mineral classification, optimization of mining permit rules, and enhancements to mineral control. These changes may have a significant impact on mining enterprises, particularly those involved in metallic mining activities in Vietnam, possibly affecting areas such as business operations, policy and tax compliance, upstream mining, and open new opportunities in mineral recycling business.

Vietnam's National Assembly amended the Mineral Law, explicitly prohibiting the export of raw rare earth ore effective January 1, 2026. According to the revised content passed by the National Assembly, the exploration, mining, and processing of rare earth minerals must be strictly controlled, with only state-authorized enterprises and organizations permitted to engage in related activities. Furthermore, the deep processing of rare earth minerals must be integrated with the development of a modern industrial ecosystem, thereby promoting the upgrading of the domestic value chain and ensuring national self-sufficiency.