Fiji’s Mineral Sector is at a very promising stage of growth, says Permanent Secretary for Lands and Mineral Resources, Lt Col Neumi Leweni.
As the number of exploration work and mining lease application rose significantly in 2008 and 2009 amounting to more than FJ$25m in exploration expenditure, Government is keen to see the continuation grow of the mineral sector.
This is in the context that well-managed mineral sector developments contribute positively to national growth and social welfare improvements for all Fiji’s citizen.
Gold being the country’s second-largest individual export contributing around $26.7m in earnings in 2008, $41.0m in 2009 with an estimated $111.4m in 2010 together with additional capital investment at the Vatukoula Gold Mines, Government actively support mineral sector development in the country.
“We will also ensure companies who undertake mineral development projects are encouraged to develop a participatory and collaborative approach with local residents, particularly in the form of small business opportunities,” Lt-Col Leweni reiterated.
The Ministry will focus its attention on industrial minerals this year, says Permanent Secretary Lt Col Neumi Leweni.
This will specifically target gravel deposit and sand deposit mapping programs.
This is vital as sand and gravel is an industrial mineral, which is an important component of construction materials for instance, cement and concrete.
Without reliable source of sand and gravel, it will be difficult to support infrastructure projects like road, bridges and buildings.
Last year, the Ministry generated $14m from legally known quarries.