Turkey eases mineral exploration regulations
The Mineral Code Application Regulations, which set forth the method and procedures regarding the implementation of Mineral Code 3213, came into effect upon their publication in Turkish Parliament's Official Gazette today.
The regulations, which aim to reduce the bureaucracy in mineral exploration and
production works and also accelerate exploration and
production activities, allow companies that have procured an exploration license to begin immediately exploring for metallic minerals. This means companies will no longer have to go through the hassle of obtaining a preliminary operating license.
Exploration licenses can be obtained via the Internet via by filling out an application form on the website of
Turkey's General Directorate of Mineral Works. According to the regulations, the application only covers exploration sites of up to 2000 hectares.
Thanks to an interim article, operating licenses given in accordance with Mineral Code 3213 can be divided into maximum four areas and re-licensed upon the request of the license owner within six months, subject to the approval of the General Directorate. This option is available only once, and only so long as the separation will not cause a loss in reserves and is economically feasible.