Overview
The study and research of geological and mineral resources in Cambodia were initially conducted by French and Chinese geologists from the late 19th century until around the 1960s. During this period, numerous indications of mineral resources were discovered, including gold, copper, iron, zinc, lead-antimony, bauxite, zircon, sapphire, coal, oil shale, limestone, and other minerals, mostly located in remote mountainous forest areas. Based on this data, the Ministry of Mines and Energy has continued to study the potential of these mineral resources through partnerships with international collaborators and by granting exploration licenses to concessionaires. These efforts have gradually progressed to the stage of exploitation particularly for construction minerals, cement, gold, iron, quartz, manganese, coal, and gemstones.
During the 7th Mandate of the National Assembly, the Ministry of Mines and Energy has been preparing and updating legal instruments to simplify procedures for public service applications and facilitate trade for concessionaires operating in the mineral sector, especially regarding the export of mineral products. This is aimed at attracting both domestic and foreign investors to invest in the mining sector.
All types of mineral resource operations must be conducted under one of the six types of mineral licenses, as stipulated in the Law on Minerals Management and Exploitation. These six types of licenses are defined by formalities and procedures governing their issuance to concessionaires, in accordance with established legal instruments.
