Mining Bill to be presented

Almost three weeks after President Luis Abinader announced the existence of millions of tons of rare earths in the country, the Minister of Energy and Mines, Joel Santos, reported that in two or three months the Government will present a proposal for a Mining Law , insistently demanded by the Mining and Petroleum Chamber of the Dominican Republic ( Camiperd ).

The Mining Law of the Dominican Republic , No. 146-71, was enacted in 1971.

Santos said yesterday that the new legislation seeks to promote the continuity of the economic development that the sector contributes, guaranteeing that mining activity is carried out with the responsibility and environmental sustainability necessary for the well-being of mining communities.

"We, as a Government, are working hard on defining this mining policy; a policy that continues to promote mining, strengthening the economic development of the Dominican Republic, but that also harmonizes with the environment and seeks the well-being of the communities surrounding the mining areas" Joel Santos Minister of Energy and Mines "

Last January, Camiperd insisted on the need to update the legislation governing the sector, considering that mining showed a notable recovery in 2024. This growth was driven by the increase in international prices, with a rise of 65.2% compared to the fall experienced in 2023. In addition, mining exports grew by 3.4%, representing 43.3% of national exports , thanks to the rebound in demand for gold, copper, zinc and precious metal waste.

The issue gained greater relevance on February 6, when, in the presence of the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, Abinader reported on the interest in exploring rare earths in the country with the collaboration of the US government.

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