). The coal industry is controlled by the state-run Vinacomin (former Vinacoal); private companies can obtain leases for up to two years to mine coal reserves, which are renewable if they meet agreed performance targets. Production has increased significantly, more than doubling in the last five years, from 15.9m tons in 1995 to 38.9m tons. This strong growth trend is expected to continue, as a result of modernised coal mining methods and significant investments on the part of Vinacomin.