ZAMBIA Law and Practice Contributed by: Harriet Mdala, Natasha Lungu, Samuel Muleya and Chanda Musonda-Chiluba, MAY and Company
MAY and Company 759 Glasshouse Independence Avenue Woodlands Roundabout
Lusaka Zambia Tel: +26 021 125 0580 Email: info@mayandco.co.zm Web: www.mayandco.law
1. Mining Law: General Framework 1.1 Main Features of the Mining Industry Mineral Resources and Production Zambia is endowed with a wealth of mineral resources. The key minerals mined in Zam - bia include copper, cobalt, manganese, silver, iron, uranium, lead, zinc, coal, and gemstones such as emeralds, tourmaline, aquamarine, and amethyst. Copper remains the cornerstone of Zambia’s mining industry, forming the bulk of its mineral resources and accounting for the major - ity of the country’s export earnings. To enhance copper production, Zambia has embarked on the National Three Million Metric Tonnes Copper Production Strategy, which aims to increase copper production from the current 800,000 metric tonnes to three million metric tonnes by 2032. The Role of Mining in the Economy The mining sector is the backbone of Zambia’s economy, accounting for over 70% of the coun - try’s export earnings. It contributes significantly to government revenues through taxes, royal - ties, and employment opportunities.
Government Regulation The mining industry in Zambia operates within a comprehensive regulatory framework, primarily governed by the Mines and Minerals Develop - ment Act No 11 of 2015 (the “Mines Act”). This legislation provides for the management and oversight of mining activities and the licensing of both small-scale and large-scale operations. Regulatory oversight is administered by the Min - istry of Mines and Minerals Development and the following departments which report to it: • the Mining Cadastre Department; • the Mines Safety Department; • the Geological Survey Department; • the Mines Department; and • the Mining Licence Committee (the “MLC”). Foreign Investment and Partnerships Zambia’s mining sector is characterised by the coexistence of small-scale, artisanal miners and large-scale operations, with foreign inves - tors predominantly driving the latter. Interna - tional investors account for a significant portion of copper and cobalt production, contributing advanced technologies and significant capital investments.
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