The newly-passed Mineral and Geological Law, to take effect on July 1, 2025, introduces several key changes regarding mineral exploitation.
One significant provision limits the number of exploration permits issued to a single organization or individual to a maximum of five for each type of mineral, excluding expired permits.
The issuing of more than five permits to the same entity requires explicit written approval from the Prime Minister.
Regarding mineral exploitation auctions, the law defines non-auction zones as areas designated to ensure energy security, national defense and security, the efficient use of strategic and for important minerals, and to secure materials for national key projects, urgent public investment projects, and works / components of national target programs. Exploitation of minerals for these designated projects will not be auctioned.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE) will delineate and submit to the Prime Minister for the approval and adjustment of non-auction zones under MoNRE’s licensing authority.
At the provincial level, provincial People’s Committees will perform similar functions for zones under their licensing authority.
The government will define the criteria for designating these non-auction zones.