According to a Mekong Eye report, in February 2024, a chemical leak from Laos' largest rare earth mining site in Houaphanh province contaminated local water sources, affecting hundreds of families and raising ongoing health and environmental concerns. The 198-square-kilometer project is a joint venture between Chinese state-owned Southern Rare Earth International Trade Company's subsidiary Beijing Platinum World Technology Development (55%) and Lao state enterprise Phadang Hungheuang Huaphan Mining Sole Company (45%). Local villagers report they were not informed about the project's risks, and while the companies have committed to compensation and prevention measures, no detailed plans have been revealed.

Business & Human Rights Resource Centre invited Beijing Platinum World Technology Development, its parent company Southern Rare Earth International Trade Company, and the ultimate parent company China Rare Earths Group (REGCC) to respond to the concerns. They did not.