These are the first two trial projects to exploit bauxite to produce aluminum in Vietnam, which are expected to boost development in the central highlands region. Reports said that amid slow national economic growth, increased investment for these projects should be carefully considered to ensure economic efficiency. Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai said that the Vietnam National Coal and Minerals Group has managed to run these projects without having to hire foreign companies. He said that relevant agencies are trying to complete research on the technology to produce steel from red mud to serve domestic production.