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Vietnam's top leader pushes for modern, safe coal industry

Vietnam's Communist Party chief and President To Lam has called for modernizing the coal sector while upholding the party's tradition of discipline and unity. The push comes as the industry continues to contribute significantly to state revenues.

LSN Vietnam · 8 November 2026

General Secretary To Lam emphasized the need to build a modern, skilled workforce in Vietnam's coal industry while prioritizing worker safety and operational efficiency. The appeal reflects the party's commitment to the principle of "Discipline and Unity" as it seeks to transform the sector amid evolving energy demands and technological change.

To Lam's directive focuses on three key areas: developing workforce capabilities through improved training and skills development, accelerating technological innovation across mining operations, and enhancing living standards for coal workers. The initiatives aim to position Vietnam's coal industry as a competitive, sustainable sector capable of meeting both domestic and export market demands.

The coal sector remains a vital contributor to Vietnam's fiscal revenues. Over a two-month period this year, the industry generated approximately 169.5 million USD for the state budget. The party leadership's recent engagement with coal miners in northern Quang Ninh province, where major mining operations are concentrated, underscores the political importance of maintaining stable production and labor relations.

Vietnam's coal industry also plays a role in regional energy cooperation. State-owned Vinacomin has recently finalized coal supply contracts with neighboring Laos, reflecting the country's position as a key energy supplier in Southeast Asia. These developments suggest Vietnam intends to maintain its coal sector's prominence while modernizing operations to meet international standards.