PNG Government to Review Delayed Yandera Mining Licence

 PNG's Mining Minister Solen Loifa has pledged to seek an update on the long-delayed Yandera mining exploration licence as the Mineral Resources Authority works through outstanding applications awaiting approval.

PNG Government to Review Delayed Yandera Mining Licence

The issue was raised in Parliament by Usino-Bundi MP Vincent Kumara, who questioned why the project had remained without an exploration licence despite decades of interest from mining companies and earlier indications that an approval would be considered.

Kumara said the Mining Advisory Council had promised last year to issue Exploration Licence 1335 for Yandera, but no clear outcome had been communicated since then.

He told Parliament that companies had been exploring the area since the late 1950s, with Kennecott Copper, Chevron and Freeport Resources among those associated with exploration activities over the years.

The project is currently being explored by Canada's Freeport Resources, which is investigating copper, gold and molybdenum deposits.

Kumara said Yandera's copper resources had been described as among the largest in the region, despite the relatively low grade of the ore.

He further questioned the delay, saying Freeport Resources had reportedly provided all information and documentation requested by the Mining Advisory Council.

Despite this, he said, communities connected to the project had received no clear communication on the status of the licence application.

In response, Loifa said the council and its technical assessment committee were continuing to review applications and supporting information. He acknowledged the existence of a backlog but maintained that technical assessments were being undertaken to guide decisions.

The minister said he would contact the relevant authorities to establish the latest position on Yandera and other projects still awaiting exploration approvals.

"I will follow up with the MAC and MRA to give me an update on the status of Yandera and other projects that are still waiting for an exploration licence," Loifa said.