Minister Goi Champions Transparency with Mining License Approvals

Papua New Guinea's Minister for Mining, Hon. Wake Goi, has reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and efficiency in the country’s mining sector.

During a media conference on November 26 at the Mining Haus in Port Moresby, Minister Goi announced the signing of 48 tenement licenses, covering various operations such as alluvial mining, exploration, and license variations. 

The approved licenses include 18 extensions, five new grants, three variation proposals, four alluvial mining leases, seven new alluvial mining leases, six dealing transfers, and one tribute agreement.

One application is set for review in the coming months, while three remain under further assessment by the Minister and the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA). 

This marks the first licensing set approved since Minister Goi’s appointment, reflecting his pledge to streamline processes and enhance transparency in mining deals. 

Minister Goi emphasized his commitment to public accountability, stating that publishing the list of approved licenses in the media is a deliberate effort to eliminate misinformation and build trust among stakeholders. 

“I want the people and the country to know that the companies granted a mining license have been approved through all correct procedures,” he said. 

Rigorous Compliance with Mining Act

All licenses underwent rigorous checks to meet the requirements outlined in the Mining Act 1992, including compliance with Sections 28, 38, 45, 46, 48, and 55.

Minister Goi commended investors for adhering to the regulatory framework and acknowledged the efforts of the MRA and the Mining Advisory Council (MAC) in processing and recommending applications. 

“The due process now ends on my part as I sign off and announce the licenses in the media,” Minister Goi said. He added that remaining applications are still being processed and will be finalized within two weeks by the Registrar of Tenements. 

Streamlining Processes for Global Investment

Minister Goi underscored the importance of timely application processing to position PNG as a preferred destination for international investors. 

“The quicker we process applications, the better we position Papua New Guinea as a preferred global investment destination,” he stated. 

Tenement holders are also advised to adhere to approved work programs within the grant’s time frame to avoid unnecessary extensions and delays. Legislative and systemic improvements are underway to reduce inefficiencies, discourage delays, and encourage timely development. 

MRA’s Role in Ensuring Robust Processes

MRA Managing Director Jerry Garry reassured stakeholders of the independent and thorough nature of the licensing process. He detailed the multi-stage evaluation framework -- including technical, legal, and financial assessments -- that precedes any license approval. 

“This is not a system where one person makes decisions in isolation,” Garry emphasized, highlighting MAC’s role as an independent advisory body. 

Garry said that some applications pending for nearly a year have now been signed, attributing previous delays to ministerial transitions. He expressed optimism that turnaround times would improve under the current Minister’s leadership. 

The Ministry of Mining confirmed that steps are being taken to filter out unnecessary extensions and variations, ensuring positive investments and timely project development.

The culmination of the tedious due process, administered by MRA, reflects a commitment to fostering accountability and advancing the sector. 

Listing of 48 Tenement Licenses: