The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) has consistently maintained a clear position against illegal gold trading activities in Papua New Guinea.
Following concerns raised at national level of illegal gold trading activities across PNG, the State, through the MRA, has mobilized a coordinated multi-agency investigation to address the matter and demonstrate commitment to protecting the integrity of the country’s mining sector.
The MRA, together with key government agencies including the Department of Commerce and Industry (DCI), Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), Customs Service, Department of Labour and Industrial Relations (DLIR), Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), conducted an inspection visit to the Simberi Mine site.
The exercise was carried out with the support of law enforcement officers and focused on Mining Lease area (ML136).
The joint inspection was initiated in response to growing allegations that illegal gold buyers may be operating on the island, allegedly disguising their activities through Chinese-owned retail outlets.
In addition to investigating the specific illegal practice, the inspection allowed the state agencies to identify other non-compliance matters, including breaches of IPA and IRC operational conditions, immigration and visa requirements of the foreign nationals operating retail outlets within the lease area.
The state-led visit shows the government’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the mining sector and ensuring compliance with PNG’s mining, taxation, labour, environmental, and commercial laws.
Representatives from the visiting agencies confirmed that each institution will undertake assessments within its respective mandate to determine further charges of the outcomes from this investigation.
The inspection was conducted independently by the state agencies, reinforcing that the investigation and any subsequent actions remain solely within government authority and processes.
The company continues to respect due processes, uphold its corporate values, and engage responsibly with local communities while supporting lawful enforcement efforts led by the State.
