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This document provides an overview of challenges and misconceptions in mining sectors of developing countries, emphasizing key local issues and legal considerations. It explores mining codes, regulatory bodies, licensing terms, security arrangements, land rights, and dispute resolution forums. The importance of legal advice and understanding local laws is highlighted to navigate complex mining landscapes.
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Exploring in New Frontiers: Overview of Key Local Issues Yves Baratte, Partner Iain Duncan, Partner 31 October 2012
Disclaimer • This document is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action as a result of the contents of this document.
Misconceptions about mining in developing countries / new frontiers • “The law does not matter there; the local governments do not apply their own laws” • “In these countries, natural resources are linked to national sovereignty and governmental relations are all that matters” • “In these countries, mining transactions are not as sophisticated as in developed countries”
Challenges in developing countries / new frontiers • Governmental authorities sometimes do not know / do not apply their own Codes • … subject to more scrutiny • NGOs and international institutions • lenders • anti-corruption laws (e.g. the UK Bribery Act 2010) • More unstable • political contexts • unreliability of local courts • Lack of infrastructure
Overview: mining codes in selected “frontier” countries • Key mining laws • Key regulatory bodies • Significant terms of exploration and mining licences • Mining conventions / investment agreements / stabilisation arrangements • Security over and transfer of licences • Land acquisition rights • Obligations to divest to the State and/or local investors • Domestic market obligations • Benchmark selling obligations • Import restrictions • Production royalties / taxes • Forum for settlement of disputes
Significant terms of exploration and mining licences: Africa
Significant terms of exploration and mining licences: Africa
Significant terms of exploration and mining licences: Africa
Mining conventions/investment agreements/stabilisation arrangements: Africa
Mining conventions/investment agreements/stabilisation arrangements: Asia
Obligations to divest to the State and / or local investors: Africa
Obligations to divest to the State and / or local investors: Asia
Yves Baratte T +33 1 53 29 16 14 Yves.Baratte@simmons-simmons.com Iain Duncan T +44 207 825 31 37 Iain.Duncan@simmons-simmons.com simmons-simmons.com elexica.com