Recently，at a ceremony at Lao PDR’s National Convention Centre in Vientiane Capital chaired by the Prime Minister and the Minister of Industry and Commerce, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) issued a Lao Business Leader Award to Chifeng Lane Xang Minerals Limited (LXML), acknowledging Sepon mine’s outstanding contribution to socio-economic development in 2022.

“I am very honoured to accept this award on behalf of everyone at Chifeng LXML,” said Mr Saman Aneka, LXML Managing Director. “Recognition inspires us to continue to strive and move forward as a responsible investor to grow the business and benefit more people.”

LXML has received a ‘40 Year Award’ for social and economic contributions, employment and environmental performance, an ASEAN Award for Mining Excellence, and an ASEAN Award for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and community development.

Since operations commenced in 2003, LXML Sepon has produced over 1.5 million ounces of gold and 1.1 million tonnes of copper, contributing over US$1.6 billion in direct revenue to the Lao PDR in taxes, royalties, and dividends. In addition, LXML has provided hundreds of millions of dollars in indirect benefits through employment, training, community development, and payments to local business partners and suppliers. LXML invested approximately US$50 million in national and local infrastructure, US$56 million in UXO clearance, and millions of dollars in cultural heritage preservation and other programs.

More than 40,000 people in Vilabouly District, Savannakhet Province, benefit from community development programs, totalling US$20 million worth of projects and investment. Community income through local business groups has accumulated to more than US$50 million over the life of Sepon mine.

“We look forward to continuing to make a strong contribution as a valued development partner in Lao PDR,” said Mr Saman Aneka.