Mining Related Questions
What are the Laws/Legislations governing the mining sector in Papua New Guinea ?
The two legislations are; Mining Act 1992 and the Mining Safety Act 1977
Do I have to register a company in Papua New Guinea to operate in the mining sector
No, foreign owned and registered companies can operate in Papua New Guinea
How about conducting business in PNG? Should I register my business?
Yes, whether you are a foreign or domestic company, you must register your business with the Investment Promotions Authority (IPA).
Investment Promotion Authority | Papua New Guinea (ipa.gov.pg).
Who is the regulator of the mining and related activities in Papua New Guinea?
The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) is the regulator. MRA is a national government institution. Its administers the Acts, i.e. Mining Act 1992 & the Mining Safety Act 1977
Where do I apply for an Exploration or Mining or related tenements/licenses?
You can download the necessary forms to complete from the MRA website or over the counter from MRA in the Mining Haus, located along Poreporena Highway, at Konedobu, Port Moresby City, National Capital District.
Can I submit my applications online?
No, you must front up in person at the Mining Haus to lodge your application.
What is the policy on Application Submission?
Refer to question 6 answer; and the application is considered on a “first come – first serve” basis. Therefore the date and time stamp on the tenements register is important to differentiate the timing of lodgment.
Where can I get data and information to guide me to peg tenements around an land area for exploration
The first point of call for this data and other exploration/mining related data is the MRA. You can email info@mra.gov.pg for these information. The MRA website is a great tool to guide you to the information.
How long does it take for the tenements applications to be processed and the outcome of this application?
On an average it may take 4 – 12 months, depending on the type of application and the due diligence done on the application.
Can I keep track of my applications
Yes, you can register to the Tenement Management Systems as a permissible user and track your application in real time.
Who makes the final decision for a grant or rejection or otherwise of my application?
The Mining Minister makes the final decision on all exploration tenement (EL & ELA) and mining license (ML) applications. The Prime Minister makes the final decision on all special mining licenses (SML) applications.
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