Mining Code Reform in Panama

The initiative reforming the Code of Mineral Resources was presented to the National Assembly.

Friday, January 14, 2011

The project, which amended Act 23 of 1963 increases fees, royalties and fines for the mining sector.

The entities responsible for ensuring proper management of the projects will work together with the Commerce Ministry and the National Environmental Authority.

"For the administration of Ricardo Martinelli, it is fundamental to reform the code and include in the new legislation the possibility for foreign governments to invest in mining concessions. The change in the law occurs just when the Government announced it will bid the exploitation of copper mine Cerro Colorado, one of the largest reserves in Latin America," reports Prensa.com.

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More on this topic

Panama Suspends Mining Reform Debate

October 2011

The Minister of the Presidency has announced the suspension of the debate on a reform designed to punish those who illegally extract mineral resources.

A press release from the Presidency of Panama reads:

The Minister of the Presidency, Jimmy Papadimitriu, in agreement with the president of the National Assembly, Hector Aparicio, announced the suspension of the debate on the mining bill which sought to revive the authority of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (Mici) regarding sanctions against those who illegally extract mineral resources.

Debate Over Panamanian Mining Code Reform

October 2011

The Commerce Commission of the National Assembly has begun discussing Bill No.394, which restores repealed articles in the Mineral Resources Code.

A press release from the Panamanian National Assembly reads:

The Commerce Commission began discussing Bill No. 394, which restores repealed articles in the Mineral Resources Code, Act 109 of 1973 and Act 55 of 1973, which, taken together, regulate the exploration and exploitation of metallic and non-metallic minerals.

Loopholes in Mining Laws to be Closed

September 2011

The Panamanian executive is preparing a draft law that will regulate the amount of royalties, fines and guarantees required from companies in the sector.

The project, which will be submitted within 30 days to the National Assembly, aims to close up the current loopholes created by the recent repeal of Act 8 of February 11, 2011 which attempted to reform the Mining Code.

Lack of Mining Legislation in Panama

June 2011

The repeal of the mining reform approved on February 8, has left a legal vacuum.

Currently the industry is regulated by the Mineral Resources Code of 1963, except for items that were amended by the law reform of February 8, 2011, which was subsequently repealed. These article related to fines, fees, royalties and prohibition of investment by foreign states.

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