png promises to have a crack

WORLD class projects with unique challenges demonstrate Papua New Guinea’s potential in the mining sector, according to the country’s mining minister.



The Ok Tedi mine in PNG. Image courtesy of OTML.

Mining minister Byron Chan said the PNG government was undertaking bold steps to rectify mistakes made in the past and to meet current challenges facing the industry.



Addressing Parliament, Chan said the number of licence applications had increased as a result of good fiscal policy and political stability as well as high metal prices.


“The government has taken a bold step in rectifying mistakes that were made in the past and to ensure that concerns affecting our people are addressed within this term of government,” he said.


“Ok Tedi has just been acquired by government and we will be extending its mine life beyond 2022.


“The government will sort out the redistribution of its acquired interest from PNG Sustainable Development Program to strengthen the mine’s sustainability.


“Porgera has continued to face trespassing by illegal miners and has posed a serious law and order issue that must be dealt with immediately and decisively.”


“I will be meeting with relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure that this law and order concern is addressed.”