Prime Minister Hun Sen has signed into effect a sub-decree that aims to create a clear licensing and exploration framework for the Kingdom’s nascent mining industry.

The document, signed on Thursday, comes into effect immediately. It requires companies to register with the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) and report their environmental impact assessments and findings.

Firms can apply for an exploration licence that does not exceed 200 square kilometres, while larger tenements need additional government approval.

The licence is valid for three years, renewable twice in two-year increments. Additionally, companies or individuals can legally secure more than one exploration licence.

Companies already holding exploration or investment licenses have 180 days to renew their licences or have them revoked, the sub-decree states.