New Angolan Mining Code
28 October 2011
On 23 September 2011, the new Angolan Mining Code (Código Mineiro) came into force. The introduction of new mining legislation had been expected for some time. As the name indicates, the Mining Code is intended to compile all of the existing legislation that applies to mining activities and it therefore replaces a large number of existing laws and regulations dealing with mining.
The compilation of these rules in one single set of regulations intends to provide easier access to applicable rules and it also harmonises, to the extent possible, the rules and procedures that apply to particular activities. Apart from codifying existing rules, the Mining Code also amends existing rules in various areas, giving mining activities a more modern and coordinated regulatory basis. The Angolan Government therefore holds the view that the new Mining Code will, on the one hand, facilitate mining activities in Angola but, on the other hand, also ensure that the impact of mining activities on for example, the environment and local communities, is properly addressed.
The attached client briefing provides a short overview of the main elements of the new Mining Code.