An Exploration License holder with a valid license may apply for an Industrial Mining License within the area covered by the exploration license.
The initial term of the Industrial Mining License:
Shall not exceed 21 years, or
Shall be equivalent to the lifespan of the mining project (if less than 21 years).
The license may be renewed twice, with each renewal lasting no more than 10 years.
In exceptional cases, further extensions may be granted, following the procedures mentioned in the Sub-Decree 72.
Application Process
Step 1
Fill out the relevant application form, which can be downloaded here or requested free of charge from the One Window Service Office (OWSO) at the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME).
Step 2
Submit a completed application form to the OWSO during working hours along with the following documents:
Mining project development plan.
Feasibility study report of the mining project.
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report and Environmental Management Plan.
Local community development plan.
Mine closure and environmental rehabilitation plan.
Receipt confirming payment of the application fee (1,000,000 Riel).
Step 3
Once the application and supporting documents are reviewed and confirmed complete, technical officials will conduct an on-site inspection to assess location suitability for the proposed project. Following the inspection, the technical officials will prepare a report and submit it for review.
The applicant will receive a written rejection letter if the proposed project is not considered appropriate for the Ministry of Mines and Energy to support or submit for approval to the Prime Minister, who serves as Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia.
Step 4
If the project is supported, the Ministry of Mines and Energy will issue a request letter seeking the Prime Minister’s approval for review.
Applicant will receive a written response (approval or rejection) within 45 working days from the date MME receives the completed application.
Step 5
Following the approval, the General Department of Mineral Resources will issue a notification letter to the applicant to collect the license and proceed with payment of fees and other financial obligations at the Department of Mineral Resource Economic Planning.