Funding the re-opening of the Panguna copper mine is a key concern for a newly-formed Joint Committee of landowners, BCL and governments, says Bougainville Governor, John Momis. Independent analysts believe it is likely to come from one of the global mining majors.
If the giant Panguna copper mine on Bougainville is ever to re-open, many complex problems must be solved, including the status of the former miner, Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL). In this exclusive interview with Business Advantage PNG, BCL Chairman Rob Burns outlines its strategy to return to mining.
The government of Bougainville wants to put the operation of the giant Panguna copper mine out to international tender as soon as possible, President John Momis tells Business Advantage PNG. But key considerations, including the exploration licence, the equity structure, landowner rights and dividends and the rehabilitation of the mine must be decided first.
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) says it is likely to put exploration licences out to international tender as a first step towards restarting the K177 billion Panguna gold and copper mine. Governor John Momis tells Business Advantage PNG he expects the ABG to take up Rio Tinto’s offer of shares, claiming that the national government should pass on the shares it was given by Rio to the ABG.
ExxonMobil reportedly behind rival bid to Oil Search for InterOil, claims Momis may sue Rio Tinto for Panguna damages and cruise liner tourism could see 5-fold growth by 2017. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.
O’Neill not interested in buying Rio Tinto’s 53% of Bougainville Copper Limited, central bank governor warns government to restrain spending, and kina falls against most currencies in September quarter. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.
Additional role for Rio Tinto’s CEO of Iron Ore operations and a new Tax Principal at Deloitte.
PNG Government likely to prepare mini-budget, Pacific Assurance Group urges Bank of PNG to lift restrictions, and Lihir mine temporarily ceases operations. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.
Motukea Island Port project expressions of interest called for, PM dismisses ‘secret deals’ with Rio Tinto, and Star Mountains project JV launches exploration campaign. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.
National Petroleum Company to appoint a specialist debt-raising adviser for new oil and gas projects, Treasury says public debt above 35% limit and anti-corruption hotline more successful than expected. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.