Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Santiphab Phomvihane visited the Laos-International Precious Metals Refinery (LIPMER) on 17 July to inspect the facility’s operations and review its production processes. The visit came as the company continues efforts to develop Laos’ precious metals industry.
During the visit, Chanthone Sitthixay, Chairman and Founder of LIPMER, presented an overview of the refinery’s operations and led the delegation on a tour of the production facilities.
He said the refinery is working toward meeting the standards of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) by adopting advanced technologies, including quality-control laboratories and automated production equipment designed to ensure high levels of accuracy while supporting environmentally responsible production.
Chanthone also outlined the strategic vision behind LIPMER, noting that the refinery supports the Party and Government’s policy of developing Laos’ gold industry to international standards. He said the project aims to add greater value to the country’s mineral resources, particularly gold, while contributing to national socio-economic development and strengthening the country’s long-term economic resilience.
During the visit, Santiphab expressed support for the refinery’s progress and commended its commitment to developing an internationally recognized refining facility aligned with LBMA standards. He said the project represents an important step toward expanding higher value-added production in Laos and strengthening the country’s economic foundation.
The Deputy Prime Minister also encouraged continued cooperation between LIPMER and relevant stakeholders to support the development of Laos’ gold industry and promote sustainable socio-economic development.
