UK bans new coal mining licences

The UK government said legislation will be introduced to restrict licences for new coal mines as it embraces a clean energy future. Britain became the first major economy to stop burning coal for power in October, with the closure of the country’s last coal-fired power station at Ratcliffe on Soar, following 50 years of service. This means coal has gone…

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Resolute Mining CEO held in Mali amid tax dispute

Photo: Resolute Mining Resolute Mining CEO Terry Holohan and two other colleagues are being held in Bamako, Mali, as the military-led government presses the Australian-based company to pay back taxes on its Syama gold mine, reported Business Insider Africa. The government insists that Resolute allegedly owes 100 billion CFA francs ($162 million) in taxes identified in a sector-wide audit, according…

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Mineral Resources mothballs Bald Hill mine

Following a strategic review, Mineral Resources has decided to place its Bald Hill lithium mine in the Goldfields region of Western Australia on care and maintenance due to market conditions.  “Placing Bald Hill on care and maintenance is a prudent decision but one not made lightly. The decision aligns with the work we have done across the company in recent…

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Rio Tinto exec seeks faster permitting under Trump

A Rio Tinto executive said U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s new administration should focus on speeding up the permitting process for its stalled Resolution copper mine in Arizona, reported Reuters. The mine could supply more than one-quarter of the country’s domestic copper needs. Full story.

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South African union, Sibanye Stillwater reach wage deal

South Africa’s National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said it had agreed a wage deal with Sibanye Stillwater’s gold operations after months of negotiations, reported Reuters. The miner agreed to increase monthly pay for its lowest paid workers by 900 rand ($50.91), while miners, artisans and officials would get a 5.5% raise, NUM said. The one-year agreement is set to be…

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Another bid on Anglo American still on table for BHP

BHP said that comments made by its chairman during its annual general meeting did not mean the company has ruled out a renewed offer for Anglo American, reported Reuters. Chairman Ken MacKenzie said that the company had “moved on” to focus on growth opportunities. However, company officials said that “these comments were not intended to be a statement to which…

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Rio Tinto becomes sole owner of New Zealand Aluminium Smelters

Rio Tinto completed the previously announced acquisition of Sumitomo Chemical Co.’s 20.64% interest in the joint venture New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS) on 1 November, making it the sole owner. NZAS owns and operates the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter, located on Tiwai Peninsula in Southland. Around 90% of the aluminium produced there is exported. “We are pleased the acquisition of…

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