New plan to boost community involvement in mining concessions

The government intends to draw up a new master plan on the mining industry in which regulations on ore processing and community participation will be tightened, according to a national policy committee.

However, it remains uncertain if Akara Resources, formerly the largest gold mine operator in Thailand, will be allowed to resume its operation.

The committee, chaired by deputy premier Prawit Wongsuwan, on Monday set up a subcommittee to formulate the master plan. The aim is to increase the involvement of local communities and stakeholders where mining concessions are granted for various resources such as cement raw materials, potash and gold ore.

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