The Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development has introduced a new National Minerals Policy, effective from 1 June, to modernize the management and development of the country’s mineral resources.

The policy was developed in response to changing socio-economic conditions and aims to strengthen the minerals sector through sustainable resource use, environmental protection, increased value-added mineral exports, investment promotion, and improved governance.Key objectives include creating an up-to-date national mineral resources database, encouraging research and development, resolving land-related issues affecting the industry, and ensuring a balance between economic development and environmental conservation.The policy will be implemented through relevant legislation and regulatory measures, with stakeholder consultations planned before detailed implementation strategies are finalized. A cross-ministerial oversight mechanism is also proposed to coordinate mineral-sector governance.