mining journal 06

MadagascarMadagascarMadagascarMadagascarA Mining Journal

supplement

COVER.indd 1 17/1/07 11:01:58

Welcome from the Malagasy Minister of Energy and Mines

MADAGASCAR

2 Mining Journal special publication

Geographical and geological introduction 3Geological maps 6Investment climate 7International mining and oil companies 7Mining policy and legal framework 9Map: Madagascar’s mineral potential 12

Madagascar

Lesotho

Swaziland

Botswana

ZimbabweMozambique

AngolaZambia

Zaire Tanzania

Indian Ocean

Malawi

Namibia

SouthAfrica

Contents

MADAGASCAR is not a traditional min-ing country. However, going forward, the government’s commitment to build the country’s economy will be powered by the mining industry.

The Malagasy Government wants to take up two major challenges: the reduction of poverty by more than half by 2015, and the expansion of the nation-al economy by the implementation of sustainable development programmes. Every available resource, including minerals, will be used. A vast programme sig-nifi cantly to reform the Malagasy mining sector began a few years ago. The Mining Code has been renewed to guarantee the stability and security of investments, and the fi scal regime has become more attractive through incentives. The geological infrastructure is currently being updated.

Stage one, an airborne geophysical survey at a scale of 1/100,000, began in 2004, and the important geo-scientifi c information that has been generated is being collated by state-of-the-art technology.

In the case of artisanal and small-scale mining, the Projet de Gouvernance des Ressources Minérales (PGRM, or Project of Mineral Resources Governance) has set up a micro-credit system and an administrative-strengthening programme relating to mining manage-ment for local authorities (mayors and their staff ) in order to redress the miners’ weak fi nancial capacity and lack of equipment.

A Bureau d’Administration Minière (BAM; Local Mining Administration Offi ces) has also been created whose objective is to reinforce the professionalism of the small-scale miners (who are essentially working precious and semi-precious and ornamental stones). The PGRM also created the Institute of Gemmology of Madagascar (IGM) which, in addition to its widely rec-ognised courses, dispenses certifi cates and contributes to the professionalism of small-scale miners by teaching practical gemmology.

Madagascar also collaborates with the regional

and international organisations. We understand that if all nations pool their capacities, they should be able to generate syner-gies which deal much better with the diff erent com-ponents of the mining industry, whether they are at industrial or artisanal scale. Consequently every mining activity, from upstream extraction to the downstream commercialisa-tion of mine products, will be conducted under full transparency. It is an approach that we judge to be the best to minimise corruption. The positive consequences of such actions will be felt through the better distribu-tion of incomes from the ex-ploitation of mineral resources. In respect of this approach, and more especially in the domain of the artisanal and small-scale mining, Madagascar hosted the sixth session of the CASM (Communities and Small-Scale Mining) conference in 2006.

The administration of mining in Madagascar must be as transparent as possible. To this end, mining permits are processed daily by the Bureau du Cadastre Minier de Madagascar (BCMM; Mining Cadastral Offi ce of Mada-gascar). Information and data is updated daily and is available on the bureau’s website. The rule of fi rst-come fi rst-served is strictly applied.

Madagascar has made a big eff ort to promote and

support its mining sector. Throughout these eff orts, the country has been receiving fi nancial

support from the World Bank (through the Interna-tional Development Association), France and South Africa for PGRM and for Projet de Renforcement Institu-tionnel du Secteur Minier Malgache (PRISMM; Project for the Strengthening of the Malagasy Mining Sector).

We wish to welcome international investors and mining operators to Madagsacar, and we invite them to be our fi nancial, mining and prospecting partners to sustain our eff orts to develop the mining sector on this big island in the Indian Ocean.

His Honour Olivier Donat AndriamahefaparanyPublished in January 2007 by:Mining Communications Ltd Albert House, 1 Singer StreetLondon EC2A 4BQTel: +44 (0)20 7216 6060 Fax: +44 ( 0)20 7216 6050E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.mining-journal.com

Supplement editor: Peter McCreadyDesign and production: Simon Smith, Tim PetersPrinted by Stephens & George, Merthyr Tydfi l, UK© Mining Communications Ltd 2007

FRONT COVER:Graphite mine owned by Société Arséne Louys, in Andasibe, Moramanga region

madagascar.indd 2 17/1/07 09:58:42

Geographical and geological introduction to Madagascar

MADAGASCAR

MADAGASCAR is the largest island in the Indian Ocean, located to the southeast of the African continent, from which it is separated by the Mozambique Channel.

Extending over 1,570 km from north to south, and over a width of 575 km, Madagascar is the fourth-larg-est island in the world (after Greenland, New Guinea and Borneo) with a surface area of 587,040 km2 and a 5,000 km coastline.

The centre of the island consists of highlands, inter-spersed by high plains and vast basins. Two thirds of the island consists of crystalline rocks, which are covered with sedimentary and volcanic rocks.

The geography of Madagascar has a marked east-west diff erence. The eastern slopes are exposed to the prevailing winds, which are monsoonal during the summer (January to March), especially in the north, with occasional cyclones.

Vegetation in the east comprises tropical forest (cov-ering about 10% of the surface), with areas of degraded secondary forest (Savoka).

The population, estimated at 17 million, is mainly concentrated in the eastern area and the in central highlands. The capital, Antananarivo, has 3.4 million inhabitants and is by far the country’s largest city. The other signifi cant cities are Toamasina (160,000) and Ma-hajanga (130,000). Madagascar remains a primarily rural country (75% of the population) with a very dispersed habitat. The offi cial languages are Malagasy and French. Christians represent 51% of the population, followed by ‘traditional’ religions (47%) and Moslems (barely 2%).

Madagascar has a road network of 54,200 km (10% bituminised) and a rail network of 1,054 km. This latter is not completely functional, and a certain number of lines still require to be rehabilitated. The principal airports are Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Taolagnaro, Toleara, Toamasina and Mahajanga, but only Antanan-arivo and Antsiranana can receive international fl ights. There are also a signifi cant number of regional and secondary aerodromes, from which chartered fl ights can be arranged. The principal ports are Toamasina, Mahajanga, Antsiranana and Taolagnaro. The latter port is being converted into a deep-water facility as part of development of the local ilmenite project.

During the few past years, the government has made large eff orts to rehabilitate the national road network. Also, the private telephone operators have made signifi -cant eff orts to connect the population. All of the main cities are already connected, and a growing number of the second-tier cities are part of the two principal national networks.

RECENT HISTORYMadagascar was a French colony from 1896 until its independence in 1960. After 18 years under a social-ist system, the country recently moved to a liberal democracy based on ‘fi havanana’ (tolerance), which is the development of ethnic and socio-cultural diversity, a respect for the fundamental rights of each citizen, and opening up to globalisation.

Madagascar has a political system based on autono-mous provinces with a central government managed

by a prime minister. Legislature is shared between two chambers: the Senate and the National Assembly.

Economic growth was over 9.6% in 2003, and during the past fi ve years the government has taken action to improve the socio-economic situation, and to pursue even faster, and sustainable, economic development. To this end, an economic revival plan was implemented for 2002-05 (see box above).

GEOLOGICAL BACKGROUNDThe geology of Madagascar is well understood (at least from the lithologic point of view), with extensive cartography (at a scale of 1/100,000) being conducted in 1950-72. However, these charts require structural inter-pretation based on modern concepts and methods. As detailed below, a reinterpretation is under development.

The eastern two thirds of the island consists of Precambrian crystalline basement made up by schist, granites and basic igneous rocks. It is bordered in the west and north by sedimentary basins of Permian (Karroo) Cenozoic age, where Cretaceous basalts are in-serted, and in the east, by a narrow band of Cretaceous basalts and rhyolites.

These units are cut by large volcanic massifs of ages ranging from Cretaceous to Quaternary.

Within the Pan African orogen, at about 500-550 My, Madagascar was in the heart of the eastern part of the Gondwana continent, between India, East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique) and Antarctic. The more recent geological history (since 300 My) is related to the dislo-cation and breaking up of this continent. This led to the opening of the Mozambique channel, and the forma-tion of sedimentary basins in western Madagascar. To the east, the separation from India and the opening of the Indian Ocean took place at 85-90 My.

The Precambrian basement of Madagascar appears to be made up of nine tectono-metamorphic units (see map on page 6): three Archean units in the centre, one in the east (where there is a possible collision zone of Neoproterozoic age) and fi ve Proterozoic units in the south, west and north.■ Antongil unit: Located in the northeast, this unit

contains the oldest rocks known in Madagascar (3200 My tonalitic gneiss and 2500 My granitic orthogneisses, associated with amphibolite facies metasediments). It is generally accepted that the Antongil unit is a part of the Indian continental crust (the Dharwar craton).

■ Antananarivo unit: In the central area, this unit is a vast ensemble of probably Archean gneiss and migmatites, and many granitic intrusions, with ages around 2500 My. The magmatic events at 800 and 630-500 My are well represented, suggesting an African affi nity.

■ Betsimisaraka unit: Made of gneiss and mica schist, with many intercalations of basic and ultrabasic rocks, and where the metamorphism is of relatively high pressure, this unit represents a zone of suture between the Indian block (Antongil)

Mining Journal special publication 3

Madagascar

Lesotho

Swaziland

Botswana

ZimbabweMozambique

AngolaZambia

Zaire Tanzania

Indian Ocean

Malawi

Namibia

SouthAfrica

ECONOMIC REVIVAL PLAN1. Eff ective rule of law: The government has focussed on transparency and the fi ght against corruption (‘bonne

gouvernance’).2. Infrastructure development: The government is willing to provide to the private sector the required

infrastructure to support investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI). Some 14,000 km of roads are being rehabilitated by 2009. The northern rail network has been awarded as a concession to a private opera-tor, while ports and airports have been subject to signifi cant rehabilitation work.

3. Private-sector development: The government aims to achieve rapid economic growth by attracting invest-ment and integration into world markets. Public-private partnerships will play a signifi cant role, with the state playing a role as facilitator, regulator and catalyst for resource allocation. The state aims to achieve:■ Economic growth rate of 8- 10%.■ Investment rate of 20% (with 12-14% from the private sector).

4. Social arena: The state will set up social programmes in targeted geographic areas, to establish food aid, health care, and education, housing and rural development, so that economic growth benefi ts the greatest number of citizens.

5. Fight against poverty: Madagascar benefi ts from the international initiative in favour of the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC). The government plans to halve the national poverty rate within ten years, thanks to resources made available by the cancellation of 50% of the country’s external debt.

Ankazotaolana chromite mine Continued on page 4



MADAGASCAR

and the African block (Antananarivo), in connection with the 550-500 My collision which generated the eastern Gondwana limb (although this interpreta-tion is a hypothesis still to be checked).

■ Tsaratanana unit: Consists of gneisses and migma-tites associated with many basic and ultrabasic rocks, dated at 2500 My and 800 My, respectively, and con-tains economic deposits for chromite (Andriamena). This unit could correspond to an archean greenstone belt, aff ected by high-temperature metamorphism. In some places, there is evidence that this unit has been thrust over the Antananarivo unit.

The following units correspond to crystalline schists deriving from sedimentary and volcano-sedimentary formations, probably Proterozoic and with strong lithologic diff erences in comparison with the archean Antananarivo unit:■ Itremo unit: Made up of quartzites, mica schists and

dolomitic marbles, integrated into a platform series (probably deposited between 1500 and 1700 My) and aff ected by a low-intensity metamorphism. This unit is crosscut by granites and gabbros dated at 800 My and also by 550 My granites. It was thrusted towards the East over the Antananarivo Unit.

■ Ikalamavony unit: Limited by the NW-SE trending Ranotsara shear zone. Based on recent aeromag-netic data, this shear zone cannot be interpreted as a major tectonic boundary and consequently the unit must continue towards the south, on the other side of the Ranotsara line. This unit, which is mainly of volcanogenic origin and was metamorphosed to amphibolite facies conditions, seems to be the lateral equivalent of the Itremo unit, and is thrust towards the east over the Antananarivo unit.

■ Tolagnaro-Ampanihy unit: Located to the south of the Ranotsara shear zone, this unit corresponds to the major part of the great granulitic domain in southern Madagascar. It is limited to the west by the north-south trending Ampanihy shear zone and is

crossed by other similar structures. The lithologies (gneiss, leptynites, marbles and rare amphibolites) refl ect a predominantly sedimentary origin with mainly acid volcanic intercalations. The age of the metamorphism as well as the age of the granites and charnockites has been dated at 570 My in the eastern part.

■ Vohibory unit: Located at the south-western end of the granulitic domain, this unit is lithologi-cally characterised by the abundance of basic and ultrabasic rocks, and by high pressure conditions. The metamorphism is dated at 650-630 My, and the protolithe deposits would be around 700-750 My.

■ Bemarivo unit: In the north extreme of the Pre-cambrian basement, the unit, which has a east-west structure, is thrust towards the south over the Bet-simisaraka and Antananarivo units. The unit seems to be amalgamated (more recently compared with the others) into the country’s Precambrian rocks. In the north, a volcano-sedimentary series, with a Greenschist-Amphibolite facies metamorphism, was dated at 715 My. In the south, metamorphism was more intense, with occurrences of charnockites dated at 510-520 My.

RESTRUCTURING THE MINING SECTOR In its restructuring of the mining sector, Madagascar is being supported by the World Bank and other fi nancial partners. The fi rst phase of the reform has been carried out through the Mining Sector Reform Project (PRSM),

which started in January 1999. This project, which ended in 2002, enabled the government to establish a new le-gal and regulatory base for the mining sector. The PRSM also assisted in development of an institutional capacity, and an improvement to the legal, regulatory and fi scal framework (focussed on the reform and reinforcement of the minerals licence registration system).

Environmental management has been introduced into mining activities, and progress has been made towards the normalisation of small-scale and artisanal operations (the aim being to formalise artisanal mining through the development of pilot projects).

The Project of Governance of Mining Resources (PRGM) is the continuation of the PRSM. This project (see box above), also fi nanced by the World Bank along with other donors, is on going. By integrating other actions more focused towards the fi ght against poverty, this project aims to improve the governance and trans-parency in the mining sector, reinforcing the support to traditional operators and promoting private mining investments, and the decentralised management of mineral resources.

The PGRM supported the implementation of addi-tional institutions for the creation of a viable system for all parties involved in the mining sector, including the creation of the Institute of Gemmology of Madagascar (IGM), the Agency for the Promotion of the Mining Sector (APSM) and activities to reinforce the geological infrastructure and to update geoscientifi c information.

MINERAL RESOURCESDue to the intensity of deformation and meta-morphism, the primary geological features of the mineralisation in the basement is often complicated. For example, only very recently has it been possible to demonstrate the signifi cant role of the Pan-African hydrothermal (or metasomatic) processes in the genesis of certain mineral concentrations. The main ore depos-its (see map on back cover), the types of mineralisation, are described below:■ The mineralisation linked to the mafi c and ultra-■ The mineralisation linked to the mafi c and ultra-■

mafi c rocks (as for instance in the Tsaratanana unit, probable greenstone gelt, or other units with mafi c component) are important, with existing deposits for chromium (Andriamena), nickel (exploitation of laterite in Ambotovy) and interesting occurrences of platinum group elements.

■ Gold, which may occur in quartz veins or in placers which derived from these veins, is abundant in a great number of small deposits. Its relationship with the presence of mafi c rocks is often clear, in particular in the Tsaratanana (Maevatanana) and Ikalamavony (Dabolava) units.

■ Iron is especially represented by Banded Iron Formations, occurring as magnetite-bearing quartz-ites. They are particularly important in the large deposit of Soalala, in a window of the Tsaratanana unit that is surrounded by sedimentary cover in the Cap St André area.

■ Graphite constitutes important deposits, mined in the paragneisses (khondalites) of the Antananarivo and Bestimisaraka units.

■ The granulitic domain in South Madagascar ■ The granulitic domain in South Madagascar ■ contains a multitude of phlogopite deposits, which are interpreted as skarns related to the regional hydrothermal circulations, often channelled by the great shear zones (the Ampandrandava and Sakamasy deposits).

■ In the eastern part of this same granulitic fi eld, the large Urano-thorianite layers of Tranomaro, can be

PGRM PROJECTProject amount: US$38.5 millionProject duration: Five yearsStart date: September 23, 2003End date: December 31, 2008Financial support: ■ The Malagasy Government: US$5 million■ The World Bank (IDA): US$32 million■ The US Government/US aid: US$0.5 million■ The South African Government: US$1 million

Bemanevika chromite mine

Continued from page 3


MADAGASCAR

also interpreted as skarns (where the mobility of thorium is explained by the role of fl uids exception-ally rich in fl uorine).

■ Madagascar is also very well known for the abun-dance of pegmatites, which is the sources for beryl, niobo-tantalates and precious stones. These rocks may occur everywhere in relation to the granitic magmatism at 500-550 My. Pegmatites of the Antsirabe area and the lacustrine deposits in the surrounding areas have been exploited for uranium.

■ Outside the pegmatites, there is a high potential for economic uranium deposits in the sandstones of Karroo (Isalo formation), belonging to the sedimen-tary cover of the Precambrian basement.

■ Madagascar became a signifi cant producer of gems (sapphire, ruby and emeralds) ten years ago. Occurrences are known of gem corundum in con-nection with alkali basalts (a very common type of mineralisation), but the main production is linked to the exploitation of alluvial deposits (at Ilakaka for example) resulting from erosion of numerous pri-mary deposits, mainly of metasomatic origin, hosted in the crystalline basement. The emerald deposits of the Mananjary area are also metasomatic and, due to the reaction of pegmatitic fl uids with ultramafi c rocks, are rich in chromium.

■ ■ Bauxite deposits occur near the tropical southeast-ern coast: in the regions of Manantenina (bauxite from alteration of leucogneisses) and Farafangana (from basalts).

■ There are signifi cant coastal beach-sand deposits ■ There are signifi cant coastal beach-sand deposits ■ of ilmenite (zircon and monazite), with the reserves near Tolagnaro and Toliara expected to be exploited in the near future.

In addition to these known deposits, there are sub-economic mineralisations of Rare Earth Elements (bastnaesite, pyrochlore, monazite) and a high potential for other metallogenic types, for instance epithermal gold deposits, base metals, and the tin, wolfram and molybdenum deposits linked to granite cupolas.

It must be taken into consideration that modern geo-physical and geochemical techniques have not yet been applied in a systematic way. Consequently, in certain areas and for certain ores and metals, the country can be considered as unexplored.

BPGRM INITIATIVEAs well as the new cartographic, geochemical and geophysical data being collected under PGRM (see box above), the government has implemented

a new geological database under Base pour la Promo-tion et la Gouvernance des Resources Minerales (BPGRM).

This programme, which has been completed and it is already fully operational, is devoted to the compila-tion, interpretation and distribution of the existing and future geological and mineral information. The BPGRM system has been designed for:■ The distribution and dissemination of geological ■ The distribution and dissemination of geological ■

and mining information, comprising the avail-able geological, mineral resources and mining inform ation in Madagascar. This information is in hardcopy-analogue format (maps and documents) or/and in digital format for datasets, scanned documents or maps.

■ The generation of standard product and services as ■ The generation of standard product and services as ■ well as the creation of value added products.

■ Integrated and multi-disciplinary analysis.

BPGRM has been conceived as a tool for promoting Madagascar’s mining sector by: ■ Optimally managing all relevant geo-data.■ Updating the geological and mining information

of the country, according to modern techniques.■ Management of the environment and sustainable

development of the country’s mining potential.

To achieve these objectives, BPGRM is staff ed by experts in geology, mining, geophysics, remote sensing and GIS, and is fully equipped with state-of-the art hardware, software and peripheral computer equipment.


Evaluation of the mineral potential of Madagascar is dependent upon knowledge of the geologic infrastructure. However, the existing geological maps are obsolete in terms of modern geo-tectonic and petrogenetic interpretations.

This situation makes it diffi cult to apply modern metallogenic models, and implement successful exploration. In addition, the modern techniques (especially applicable in areas with access diffi cul-ties or low levels of outcrop) for airborne geophysics or remote sensing have never been systematically applied on a large scale.

To cover these gaps, the PGRM is developing:1. An airborne geophysical survey (magnetometer

and radiometry) over 600,000 linear km.2. Re-interpretation and modernisation of the exist-

ing geological maps in the Precambrian basement (at 1:100,000 and 1:500,000). This cartographic work includes sampling for regional stream sedi-ments, litho-geochemistry and geochronology, as well as the systematic application of the remote sensing data (ETM, Aster and Radar JERS).

3. The design, loading and implementation of an integrated database (graphic and alphanumeric), based on GIS technology and where the totality of the geological and mining information (includ-ing the new mapping and geophysics projects) are being compiled and stored.

BPGRM may off er access to information, products and services by two means: 1. Via the internet (www2.gaf.de/bpgrm). This website integrates not only the information available in BPGRM but

also other information related to the mining sector, as for instance the updated information about the mineral rights (mining cadastre). The site contains also facilities to download maps, as well as the list for products

and services, the pricelist and the bibliographic catalogue, giving access to the existing inform ation from documents, reports, geochemistry and sample analysis results. The details on the data and

information held in the BPGRM Geoscience database are also available in the internal cata-logue, accessible in the website.

2. A public counter and consultation room (free of charge) in BPGRM headquarters.2. A public counter and consultation room (free of charge) in BPGRM headquarters.2. A public counter and consultation room (free of charge) in BPGRM headquarterIn the public consultation room, computer terminals are available

to query and interrogate the information stored in the BPGRM database. Staff are also available to help,

as well as to take the orders for data and products acquisition.

PGRM INITIATIVE

Last November, the sixth annual CASM (Commun-ities and Small-Scale Mining) meeting was held in Antsirabe, central Madagascar.

The event attracted over 250 delegates from over 40 countries, especially from the African continent, with one common agenda: to help develop and formalise the vulnerable and increas-ingly marginalised Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining sector (ASM).

The meeting, which was hosted by the Govern-ment of Madagascar, was titled ‘From Threat to Opportunity’ and focused on several key areas under the generic ‘umbrella’ of confl ict. Key sessions included conservation and the threats to biodiver-

sity and ecosystems from ASM encroachment; ASM in post-confl ict countries; and the growing issue of encouraging harmonious co-existence between ASM communities and the large-scale mining sector all attracted large audiences. In addition to focused discussions on the main issues and challenges, each of these workshops were tasked with determining realistic and prioritised action plans for CASM to adopt and implement.

One of the most popular workshops focused on managing relationships between large-scale mining companies and ASM miners and communities.

Some delegates also participated in organised fi eld trips to two key local gemstone ASM sites.

CASM



MOZAMBIQUE CHANNEL

Tectono – metamorphic units of the Precambrian terrane of Madagascar

Airborne geophysical irborne geophysical digital maps of Cap St digital maps of Cap St André area: spectrometry André area: spectrometry (ternary image) (top); (ternary image) (top); magnetometry (above)magnetometry (above)

MADACASCAR


NICKEL/COBALTAMONG the largest (US$2.25 billion) and most ad-vanced mineral projects is the Ambatovy nickel/cobalt project (80 km east of the capital, Antananarivo).

Toronto-listed Dynatec Corp acquired a 100% stake from previous partner Phelps Dodge Mining Co, and was joined in 2005 by Sumitomo of Japan and recently (2006) by a third stakeholder from South Korea. The fi nancing arrangement has been announced to be in good progress for an initial investment cost set at US$2.5 billion with a debt/equity ratio of 60:40.

Proven and probable reserves at Ambatovy and Analamay amount to 125 Mt at 1.04% Ni and 0.099% Co (using a 0.8% Ni cut-off grade). A feasibility study released in February 2005 estimated that the deposit

could deliver 60,000 t/y of LME Class 1 nickel, 5,600 t/y of cobalt and 186,000 t/y of ammonium sulphate over a 27-year mine life. An open-pit mining operation is planned, with an ore preparation plant at the mine site. Ore would be transported almost 200 km by slurry pipeline to a pressure acid leach plant near the port of Toamasina.

Dynatec has completed an Environmental Impact Assessment study and received its environmental permit in December 2006. Construction will start at the beginning of this year and will last for 32 months. The project will create 2,000 jobs.

HEAVY MINERALSRio Tinto is in joint venture (80:20) with the Madagascar Government in a company called

QMM SA, to mine a US$350 million ilmenite project near Fort Dauphin on the southeast coast, with an expected annual output of 750,000 t of pigment.

New developments arising since are:■ The stakeholders of QMM have now taken the ■ The stakeholders of QMM have now taken the ■

decision to go ahead for implementation of the project.

■ The Government has granted to QMM its environ-■ The Government has granted to QMM its environ-■ mental permit based on an EIA study submitted by QMM SA and discussed with Offi ce National de l’Environnement (ONE), local communi-ties and major conservation organizations present in the country.

MADAGASCAR recently implemented a regulatory framework in favour of investment. Key measures include:■ Liberalisation of the economy through the privatisa-

tion of state-owned companies and of fi nancial transfers by resident and non-resident foreigners.

■ Free transfer of dividends by non-resident share-holders.

■ Abolition of export taxes.■ Regional integration through membership of the

Common Market of Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and participation in the Cross Border Initiative (CB), the Indian Ocean Commission and the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Co-operation (lOR-ARC).

■ Promotion of the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) regime, granting various incentives (including tax) to export-oriented investment.

To improve the business environment, eff orts have been made by the present administration regarding:1. Investment guarantees: Madagascar is a member of the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)

and of the African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI) to cover investors against political risks and to guarantee international fi nancial or trade transactions. The free movement of capital is ensured by the conventions signed with the IMF.

2. Land access: State-owned land can be allocated to foreign companies through a 99-year lease. Moreover, the 99-year real estate lease gives the leaseholder a mortgage right which can be transferred or seized in the prescribed forms for foreclosure. Surveys have been carried out to identify state-owned land that can be reserved for industrial development or tourism.

3. Legal and tax initiatives: Madagascar is speeding up its legal reforms, including the business regulatory frame-work. New corporate laws and collective procedures have been adopted, and an anti-corruption campaign is being implemented. In addition, exceptional company tax exemptions have been granted. These include:■ Abolition of value added tax (VAT) collection for

exports and EPZ fi rms up to the amount of their VAT credit.

■ Abolition of deposit payment and facilitation of income payment.

■ Suppression or suspension of import taxes on goods such as cement, yarns and fabric, iron, steel and other items needed for construction, agricultural material and equipment.

INSTITUTIONAL ENVIRONMENTAn Information Offi ce for Companies (BIPE) has been established to assist private companies in the registra-tion and search for market information.

A ‘one-stop-shop’ for private investment (GUIDE) is operational and aims to facilitate and reduce the administrative procedures related to the creation, investment and operation of a company (administrative formalities, tax system, long stay visa, etc).

On the domestic front, an eff ective partnership has been established between the administration and the private sector through the creation of the Support-ing Committee for the Revival of Companies (CAPE). This provides a dialogue platform and facilitates the formulation and implementation of measures for the development of the private sector.

International mining and oil companiesExploration and development activity


Investment climate MADACASCAR

Continued on page 8



MADACASCAR

■ The fi nancing for the construction of the Port of ■ The fi nancing for the construction of the Port of ■ Ehoala for an amount of US$130 million, of which US$35 million will be brought by the Government through the Integrated Pole Growth Project as non reimbursable grant, and the balance by QMM SA, is now secured. The Japanese company DAIHO Corp has been awarded the contract for construction of the Ehoala Port with a completion date fi xed for the end of 2008, the same date as the start of the mining production. The World Bank expects that the project could earn the country some US$400 million a year, with over US$20 million in direct taxes and dividends to the Government.

■ Australia-listed Ticor Ltd and the affi liate of south African Anglo American Kumba Resources are busy with their Toliara sands project, located in the southwestern part of the country. In January 2005, the company announced a reserve estimate for the Ranobe deposit of 465 Mt, with 6.2% heavy mineral content.

In 2006, the company conducted an additional drilling programme and also some pilot washing/sepa-ration of the minerals in a pilot plant. The plant was constructed on the site with a view to completing a full bankable feasibility study early this year.

IRON OREMadagascar Mining Development Sarl (MMD) is con-sidering the Soalala iron-ore deposit in the west of the island, close to Mahajanga. In the south of Madagascar, the Canadian company Cline Mining Corp is consider-ing the Bekisopa iron-ore deposit.

BAUXITEThe Canadian Alcan Inc has made an announcement that it has signed an MoU with the Access Madagascar Sarl which is holding the mineral rights on the Manantenina bauxite deposit on the south eastern part of the country, with the aim jointly to study the development of a bauxite mine and an alumina refi nery. The announce-ment added that the concept study is expected to be completed this year and could lead to feasibility studies.

DIAMONDSThe Toronto-listed Resources Majescor Inc has had a primary diamond exploration programme since 2004 and sampled some kimberlites in 2005 which were sterile, but it continues to look for diamonds. Majescor has acquired rights in fi ve gold projects and plans to carry out a drilling programme this year on its Besakoa polymetalic deposit. Pan African Mining Corp is also carrying out some important sampling programmes for diamonds but also for gold in many parts of the country.

GEMSTONESThe entire country is mined for coloured gemstones. Everything is mined except tanzanite, diamonds and jade. Gem min-ing has occurred since 1900, and resources are believed to be suffi cient for the next two centuries or more. The mining is decentralised and there are thousands of mine owners and small artisanal miners, some mechanised mining, but no large mechanised operations to speak of. One of the goals of the PGRM is to develop the country’s gem trade. The fi rst step in modernising Madagascar’s gem industry was the creation of the Institute of Gemology of Madagascar (IGM) (see p10.)

GOLDCanadian mineral explorer Pan-African Mining Corp an-nounced in mid-2005 it had found high-grade gold deposits at its western Dabolava concession. The company is hoping to justify a mining operation, which will require an investment of between US$25 million and US$100 million. The licence area is some 180 km west-southwest of Antananarivo.

Gold in Madagascar is mined mainly by artisanal miners at various locations such as Ampanihy and Maevatanana in the east, and Andavakoera in the northeast. Resources are estimated to be at least 33 t.

Exploration licences have been issued to small-min-ers such as Madagascar Goldfi elds and Société Bijou Internationale.

In 2006, the Government decided to create gold agencies (Comptoirs de l’or) in two locations (Brieville and Maevatanana) where small-scale miners are very active. The plan is to help them offi cially trade their pro-duction, and thus progressively eliminate the important black market, which for many years has characterised gold and precious metal transactions.

COALAn agreement exists between the Madagascan Government and UK company Vuna Energy Ltd through its local subsidiary Madagascar Consolidated Mining, to explore the Sakoa coal deposit in the southwest of the country. Resources at Sakoa are estimated at about 65 Mt.

MINERAL PRODUCTIONChrome ore production is still the major mineral export of Madagascar through the government-owned company Kraomita Malagasy: Average exports for the past two years have been 120,000 Mt/y of lumpy and concentrate products.

Other mineral productions and exports are graphite (produced mainly by Etablissements Gallois and SMGI), mica, as well as small quantities of beryllium, gold, rare earth minerals and industrial minerals (cement, feldspar, ornamental stone, gemstones, quartz and salt).

In the fi eld of dimension stone, the country also produces granite, labradorite and marble; the lead producer is Magrama.

OTHER DEVELOPMENTSLast year the medium and large mining companies involved in mineral exploration and production in Madagascar decided to form a joint organisation called ASPIM (Association for Promotion of Industrial Mining Investments), to be an independent advising body to keep and maintain an attractive, stable and secure legal and fi scal framework for the mining industry.

PETROLEUMAfter promotion and licencing rounds on the onshore blocks available for exploration, newcomers entered into a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with OMNIS. In addition to the existing companies present last year, such as Vanco Energy Co, Sterling Energy, ExxonMobil, Norsk Hydro and Madagascar Oil Sarl, two companies, Tullow Oil and Amicoh Resources Ltd, signed a PSA agreement with OMNIS. A licensing round is still underway, both onshore and off shore.

Oil and gas exploration became more active last year: ■ 2-D or 3-D airborne geophisics/seismic surveys were carried out on almost all the awarded blocks■ Madagascar oil is planning to conduct some pilot testing works on site on its heavy oil Tsimiroro deposit■ ExxonMobil is planning to drill a 3,000 m-deep well in its off shore block of Mahajanga at an estimated cost of

over US$100 million.

EXPORTATION VALUES FOR EACH GROUP OF MINERAL RESOURCES: 2003-04 2003 2004Substances Quantity Value (MGA) Quantity Value (MGA)MS (t) 76,519 12,376 million 74,732 22,381 millionPS (t) 8.28 + 9.346 million 9.57 5,145 million 12,905 ctFS (g) 196,609 3,049 million n/a 5,374 millionIS (Mt) 9.855 11,257 million 27.533 21,681 million +7,736 piecesMO (t) 9.59 16.3 million 38.3 4,536 millionPM (t) 10.93 75.8 million 5.42 49.3 millionTotal 36,120 million 59,167 millionAccording to Malagasy legal regulation: MS = major industrial substances (graphite, chromite and mica)

PS = precious stones (sapphire, ruby and emerald), FS = fi ne stones

(eg: amethyst, cordierite, topaz). IS = industrial stones (eg. agate, silicifi ed wood, diopsid)

MO = metallic ores. PM = precious metals (gold jewel, silver jewel, mixed gold and silver jewel)Exportation values

International mining and oil company activity information supplied by Willy Ranjatoelina, Executive Secretary of the ASPIM

A tourmaline crystal for the gem market mined in central Madagascar

EXPORTATION VALUES OF MINING RESOURCES (2000-06)Year Value in Malagasy ariary millions (MGA)2000 47,3562001 23,2432002 31,6902003 36,1202004 59,1672005 92,9532006 (to end Oct) 72,818

Average parity:

US$1= MGA2,100



Mining Journal special publication

Mining CodeIN 1999, THE Malagasy Government approved a new Mining Code (Law No 99-022 of August 30, 1999), with a view to simplifying the country’s mining sector and making it more transparent. It was also intended to eradicate confl icts and improve the management of mining licences.

The code put all investors on the same basis, irre-spective of their origin or their capital ownership. It took into account the new constitutional provisions with regard to the decentralisation of administrative services, and is in conformity with the concern to preserve the environment and conduct mining activity in a better socio-economical climate.

The code (see page 10) induced the creation of the Mining Cadastre, which established and maintains the updated public registry of mining leases. The registry is accessible to the public and represents an innova-tion in the Malagasy legal framework. The fundamental principle for the granting of licences is based on the ‘fi rst come, fi rst served’ principle. Discretionary procedures and discrimination have been abolished in the granting of mining leases. Reasonable and progressive fees are established to discourage speculation.

All mining licences provide exclusive rights for all commodities inside the mining lease area, with guaranteed security of tenure during the transition from exploration to mining. The free commercialisation of the products is guaranteed, as well as the reduction of custom duties for imported equipment and goods for exploration and mining. The ‘liquidity’ of mining investments is being ameliorated by liberalising the transfer of mining rights through leasing, mortgage and other transactions.

Recently, the code has been slightly modifi ed in order to introduce some adjustments as recommended by the experience cumulated during the practical application of the Law since its approval. However, this will not aff ect the basic principles and concepts which inspired the 1999 Act.

Legal framework for environmental managementBIODIVERSITY conservation in Madagascar is a world priority because of the number and variety of indig-enous fl ora and fauna that exist in the country and the high potential for degradation. Madagascar is consid-ered by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), such

as International Conservation, as one of the three places in the world where biodiversity conservation should be given the highest priority. This factor makes investment in the fi elds of conservation and environmental protection a priority.

Madagascar ranks among the top three regions in the world for environmental conservation, alongside the Philippines and the Sundaland region in Indonesia. However, Madagascar’s fl ora and fauna are threatened by strong degradation to such an extent that it is not unreasonable to say that several species risk extinction before they have been discovered.

The mining sector has taken into account in its man-agement strategy the integration of the environmental dimension. The harmonisation of the environmental protection constraints with mining activity has been in-troduced through a set of detailed regulations based on the environmental framework law and sector specifi c legislation. The key aspects of the legislations are:■ Environment Charter No 90-033 (December 21,

1990). Public or private investment projects that are

liable to aff ect the environment should be the sub-ject of an impact study, considering the technical na-ture and the extent of the aforementioned projects and the sensibility of the established environment.

■ Decree on the compliance of Investments with Environmental Management (MEClE) No 99-954 (December 15,1999). This decree governs the environmental impact study (EIE) assessment pro-cedures, as well as the Environmental Commitment programmes (PREE), for exploration activities and small-scale mining.

■ The Mining Code (No 99-022, August 1999) and its regulations (No 2000-170, May 15, 2000). The preparation of an environmental impact study, and an environmental management plan, including the preparation for mine closure and the rehabilita-tion of the site are prior conditions for all mining projects. No mining activities can start (and this will eventually apply also to detailed exploration) without prior approval by the relevant environmen-tal authorities, as per the regulations on environ-mental protection and the commitments contained in the environmental impact study. All prospecting, research and exploitation works are banned within natural reserves and protected areas.

■ Mines-Environment Joint Inter-ministerial Order, No 12032/2000 (November 6, 2000).This sets the regulation of the mining sector as far as environment protection is concerned, and defi nes and specifi es central and provincial pro-cedures and modes on the PREE fi le examination.

In addition, and consistently with the world scale in-

Mining Journal special publication 9 Mining Journal special publication 9999

Mining policy and legal frameworkMADACASCAR

The LGIM, Law n° 2001-031 of October 8, 2002, was created to promote large-scale mining in Madagascar.

The island is well-known for its mining potential, which exploitation should be confi ded to techni-cally and fi nancially qualifi ed operators. For that, the LGIM grants a special regime to operators that invest beyond the preset eligibility threshold.

In 2004, from discussions with some applicants, some alterations of the LGIM provisions proved to be essential, mainly its threshold, which was reduced to approximately US$25 million (from US$100 million).

PRINCIPAL ADVANTAGES OF THE LAWTax Department:■ Temporary exemption of the minimum collection

to IBS. ■ Application of reduced rates (IBS, IRCM, TP, TFT,

IFPB).■ Additional deductions of IBS. ■ VAT exemption for importation of items, goods

and equipment.■ Depreciable particular elements. ■ Deduction on real basis (TP, TFT).

Exchanges Department:■ Freedom of conversion to the market rates.■ Current operations transfer into simple declaration.■ Accounts in currencies in Madagascar and abroad.

Customs Department:■ Exemption from customs duties for defi nite

admission to the importation of items, goods and equipments.

■ Temporary admission with fees and taxes sus-pended for items mentioned in the generic list.

■ Possibility to set up a special offi ce for imports and exports business.

Legal Department:■ For processed mining products, 50% deduct ion

on their value for the tax calculation of the mining royalty.

■ Guarantee of the rights of ownership.■ Guarantee not to expropriate/nationalise.■ Guarantee of free movement and marketing of

the mining products.

Committee of Large-scale Mining Investments (CGIM):The CGIM, according to the regulations of the LGIM, is responsible for the follow-up and supervision of the large-scale mining operators. It is managed by the General Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mines.

In addition, the committee is also the unique negotiator on behalf of the investors, enabling them to obtain the best possible conditions.

THE LARGE-SCALE MINING LAW (LGIM)

Based on economic studies and comparisons with the taxation systems in other countries, the lack of competitiveness of the Malagasy Common Tax Code was revealed so far as mining was concerned.

This situation led the Malagasy Government to pass new legislation – the law on Large Scale Min-ing Investments (LGIM, see box above).

The LGIM establishes a balance between large mining investors who are subject to interna-

tional competition and the interests of the country concerning taxes, and the economic and social consequences resulting from the development of the mining industry.

The LGIM brings great advantages to mining investments, namely stability (concerning the legal framework and tax system), better conditions governing the repatriation of export revenues, and international arbitration.

LARGE-SCALE MINING INVESTMENTS

Continued on page 10



MADAGASCAR

The Mining Code is constituted by Law No 99 022 of August 30, 1999 altered by Law 2005-021 of October 17, 2005. This Mining Code is drafted to allow mining operators having at their disposal a favourable legal environment and a better manage-ment of the Malagasy mining sector.

REGIME OF MINING LICENCES■ Research licence (R):Exclusive right to prospect and make researchValidity period: fi ve years, twice renewable with three years period for each renewal.

■ Exploitation licence (E):Exclusive right to exploit substances and carry on prospecting and research of the said substancesValidity period: 40 years, renewable once or several times with 20 years period for each renewal.

■ Licence reserved to the small miners (PRE):Exclusive right to carry out prospecting, research and exploitation.Validity period: eight years, 40 years, renewable once or several times with four years period for each renewal■ An Exclusive Authorisation Perimeter Reservation (AERP): Can be granted for a three-month period. This authorisation confersits holder the right of prospecting for maximum

surface of 15,000 km2, so be it 38,400 squares of 625 m side for three years maximum and then the right to apply for ‘R’ or ‘E’ licences, (Article 22).

The limits of the total surface area covered by mining licences are: ■ For R licence: Up to 10,000 km2; 25,600 squares

of 625 m side. ■ For E licence: Up to 1,000 km2; 2,560 squares of

625 m side.■ For PRE licence: Up to 100 km2; 256 squares of

625 m side.■ Possibility of extension of the licence to other

mineral substances (Article 31).

MINING ROYALTYThe fi rst sale of the extracted products gives rise to the perception of a mining royalty equivalent to 0.60% and a rebate to 1.40% of their value (Article 117).

STABILITY GUARANTEEGuarantee to maintain legal provisions and regula-tions concerning legal, fi scal, customs and exchange systems.

Possibility to opt for more favourable provisions that could occur subsequently on the date of the stability option.

Benefi ciary of the stability regime:Investments in mining research and exploitation with a minimum amount of MGA500 million.

Advantages of the regime:■ Ability to open accounts in currencies at the local

or foreign trade banks.■ Possibility to make accelerated depreciation for

equipment investments. ■ Possibility to recapitalise capital expenditures

during research phase and to make accelerated depreciation.

■ Right to transfer outside Madagascar the amounts in currencies relevant to project needs.

■ Right to benefi t from the regime of temporary admission with all customs duties suspended.

The duration of the investor stability guarantee var-ies according to the below investment thresholds:■ Eight years for investments from MGA500 million

to MGA2.5 billion excluded.■ 15 years for investments from MGA2.5 billion to

MGA12.5 billion excluded.■ 20 years for investments from MGA12.5 billion to

MGA50 billion.

The regime applicable to investments beyond MGA50 billion is fi xed by the Law on Large-scale Mining Investments.

terest of the wildlife protection in Madagascar, the Gov-ernment created in 2003 the ‘biodiversity corridors’, with provisional character and devoted to select the more critical and sensible zones, in order to include them in the protected areas network. Presently, the Ministry of Energy and Mines and the Ministry of Environment, through the joint Commission for Water and Forest are making big eff orts to harmonise the needs and necessi-ties of the mining and environmental sectors.

Mining CadastreTHE Mining Cadastre Registry (BCMM) was created in May 2000 to enforce a simple, transparent and access-ible management of mining licences. Also based on the principle of ‘fi rst come, fi rst served’; the BCMM grants mining licences based on simple conditions – the pay-ment of a fi xed mining administration fee based on a standard surface unit area of 2,500 x 2,500 m (recently modifi ed to 625 x 625 m), and subject to the submission of an environmental commitment plan.

The simplifi ed procedures to obtain mining licences and the transparency in the granting criteria have proved an effi cient means of promoting the sector, as seen by the increasing number of licence holders within a relative short period. The BCMM acts as a ‘one-stop shop’ for the submission and dispatch of environmental studies to the relevant authorities, as well as the deliv-ery of environmental authorisations.

The existing types of licences are:1) Exclusive Authorisation to Reserve a Prospect

(AERP): This confers to its holder the exclusive right to prospect within the perimeter. Maximum area: 38,400 unit squares (625 x 625 m each). Duration of validity: three months max. Fee: MGA4,000/unit (6.25 km2).

2) Exploration Licence (PR): This PR confers to its

holder the exclusive right to explore within the perimeter. Maximum area: 25,600 unit squares (625 x 625 m each). Duration: 5 years, renewable twice for three years each. Fee: MGA30,000/unit square, multiplied by the number of years held.

3) Mining Licence (PE): This confers to its holder the exclusive right to undertake mining, prospecting and exploration activities within the perimeter. Maximum area: 2,560 unit squares (625 x 625 m each). Duration: 40 years, renewable once or more for 20 years each. Fee: MGA50,000/unit square.

4) Small-Scale Mining Licence (PRE): This confers to its holder the exclusive right to undertake at the same time, prospecting, exploration and mining within the licence perimeter. Maximum area: 256 unit squares distributed over at least four separate blocks. Duration: eight years, renewable for four years each time. Fee: MGA5,000/unit square, multiplied by the number of years of tenure.

NB: A square is 625 x 625 m (0.39 km2). PRE, PR and PE licences are transferable 2). PRE, PR and PE licences are transferable 2

rights, which can be leased and mortgaged. The base rate used for the

calculation of mining administration fees per square is revised annually,

according to the value change of the Malagasy Ariary with regard to the

special drawing right of the International Monetary Fund.

Mining administrationThe Direction of Mines and Geology (DMG) is respon-sible for the monitoring and control of the mining activities, and the implementation of the minerals policy. Its objectives are:■ The setting up and application of the Mining Code ■ The setting up and application of the Mining Code ■

and its regulations.■ Promotion and reinforcement of private operator

activities.■ Improvement of data collection, processing and

management.■ Provision of technical support to mining operators.

■ Improvement of tax and licence fee collection.■ Promotion of mineral exploration and geological

mapping.■ Publication of documents and geological maps.■ Protection of the environment.

The DMG comprises the Service of Mines, the Service of Geology, the National Laboratory of Mines and Geo-logy and the Mining Inspectorate.

Institute of Gemmology of Madagascar (IGM)THE IGM is a Ministry of Energy and Mines project, which is fi nanced by the World Bank with assistance from USAID. IGM will enable mine operators to improve their knowledge of precious stones; moreover, the lapidary training by the IGM will reinforce technical and economical capacity of small lapidaries, and will also provide certifi cation of gemstones for exports. The vision of the Institute is in four parts:

1. Instruction in gemmology. With the active partici-pation of one of the world’s foremost schools of gem-mology, the IGM will become the fi rst gemmological institution in Africa. The goal is to train Malagasy stu-dents to an international standard. The students will then go on to work in private enterprises (purchasing and selling gemstones, banking, appraisal and con-sulting), education (working as instructors for future generations of students at the IGM or at satellite offi ces in various regional cities of Madagascar), or in administrative capacities as experts in the Service de Mines (a ‘one-stop shop’ for export and customs etc).

2. Instruction in lapidary arts. National and interna-tional experts will teach IGM students to cut coloured

MINING CODE




MADAGASCAR

Main reforms Mining Code 99-022 Revised Mining Code 2005-021on August 30, 1999 on October 17, 2005

Reduction of the square unit size 2.5 km2 625 m2

Principle of the State disengagement State and its dismemberings, Local Governments, Public Organisms cannot hold mining permits or mining authorisationDefi nition of the legal orders of the small-scale miners groupings Three new items relative to the defi nition of the legal orders of the small-scale miners groupingsLegal liability on granting Small-scale Mining Licence Items 42 and 47 (PRE) is transferred from Inter-Regional Directions of Ministry of Energy and Mines to Local GovernmentsRegions Government are the legal authority on following Item 14up and technical control of activities of quarries inreplacement of Provincial GovernmentsDefi nition of the mining royalties which permit rapid Mining royalties: 2% of the Mining royalties = 0.60%payment of the local government quotas amount of the fi rst sale Refund = 1.40% (item 117)Possibility to set up a temporary provision Item 17for environmental and geological studies. Areas for which geological pre-feasibility studiesare done may be granted by tenderingSmall-scale miners working inside temporary reserves Item 18must be justifi ed in their access to mining permits Duration of Research Licence reduced PR (research licence): 10 yearsyearsy PR: fi ve years renewable two times

renewable two times for fi ve years each for three years each Establishment of a new gold-washing passageway concept Item 2A part of the fees on the delivery of gold-washer cards Item 77will be paid to the Regions Decrease in the diff erent durations for guaranteed stability Duration of the guarantee Duration of the guarantee

stability to investors: stability to investors: ■ Eight years for amount of ■ Eight years for amount of investment up to

investment up to MGA500 million MGA500 million to MGA2,500 million excluded to MGA5,000 million excluded ■ 15 years for up to MGA2,500 million

■ 15 years for up to MGA500 million to to MGA12,500 million MGA50,000 million excluded ■ 20 years for up to MGA12,500 million to

■ 20 years for up to MGA50,000 million to MGA50,000 million MGA200,000 million included

■ Investment amounts up to ■ Investment amounts up to MGA50,000 million MGA200,000 million ruled by ruled by Large Scale Mining Law (LGIM) Large Scale Mining Law (LGIM) Precisions on mining activities relatives to radioactive Item 8substances and ores (getting research or mining rights) Annual adjustment of the amount of the mining Basic rate for calculation of the amount of annualadministration fees (FAM: frais d’adminitration minière) FAM rate per square unit is adjusted according to the average parity of DTS from January 1 to 31 of the year before FAM must be paid by bank transfer or by postal transfer FAM can be paid at the Mining Item 57

Cadastral Offi ce or its subsidiarywhich grants the mining licence

Mining Administration can ask for processing Item 148or transformations before exportation of gold or fossilsAll values or amounts in FMG to be converted to MGA

gemstones to international standards with the two-fold goal of raising the quality and the perception of the quality of Malagasy cutting. This will enable the lapidaries in Madagascar to compete with cutters from any other country in the world, thereby improving local profi ts and the value added by the mineral sector. Well-trained lapidaries will increase the quantity of well-cut stones available in Madagascar and will make the country a more desirable destination for foreign buyers to visit.

3. Establishment of a gemmological laboratory. A gemstone laboratory capable of issuing interna-tionally recognised certifi cates will increase buyer confi dence in cut stones available in Madagascar. This

should lead to an increase in the volume and value of gemstones sold locally and will position the country among the world’s established gemstone research laboratories.

4. Public lapidary for IGM students to cut their own stones until they can invest for their own lapidairy. The Institute began operations in 2004 after the renovation of its site and the training of its initial cadre. Off ers have been tendered for the

rehabilitation of the building. Four Malagasy students have been selected for gemmologi-cal training abroad.

On their return to Madagascar, they will become the fi rst teachers of the IGM. Dialogue with several international gem-

mological institutions is continuing and the Gemmo-logical Institute of America (GIA) has completed its fi rst extension course in gemstone identifi cation taught in French in Antananarivo.

The success of the Institute will depend on the advice and co-operation of all elements of the mineral sector, and the IGM welcomes the comments and assistance of all entities interested in improving the quality and profi tability of the gemstone business in Madagascar.

MINING CODE: THE MAIN REFORMS

“The IGM welcomes the comments of all entities interested in improving the quality

of Madagascar’s gemstone business”


CONTACTSMinister: Mr Olivier Donat AndriamahefaparanyCabinet of the Minister: Tel: +261 (0)20 22 595 59E-mail: [email protected]

Secrétaire Général of the Ministry of Energy and Mines: Dr Hugues RajaonsonE-mail: [email protected]

Directeur Général of the Ministry of Energy and Mines: Mr Sylvain Razafi ndriakaE-mail: [email protected]

Direction of Mines and Geology: Director: Mr Gérard Rakototafi kaTel/fax: +261 (0)20 22 418 22E-mail: [email protected]

Ministry of Energy and Mines and all of its parts: BP 280, Rue de Farafaty, Ampandrianomby Antananarivo 101 Madagascar

BPGRMex-Laboratoire National des Mines, Route d’Andraisoro, Ampandrianomby Antananarivo 101Tel: +261 (0)20 22 591 36/37/38Fax: +261 (0)20 22 591 39E-mail: [email protected]

Bureau du Cadastre Minier de Madagascar (Mining Cadastral Offi ce):Tel: +261 (0)20 22 522 81 E-mail: [email protected] Director: Dr Johary Andriamanantena

Offi ce des Mines Nationales et des Industries Stratégiques (OMNIS):BP 1 bis, 21 Lalana Razanakombana Ambohijatovo Antananarivo 101 MadagascarTel: 261 (0)20 22 242 83E-mail: [email protected] Directeur Général: Mr Elysée Razaka

Projet de Gouvernance des Ressources Minérales (PGRM): Ex-Laboratoire National des Mines, Route d’Andraisoro Ampandrianomby Antananarivo 101 Madagascar Tel: +261 (0)20 22 591 36/37/38 Fax: +261 (0)20 22 591 39E-mail: [email protected] Acting Coordonnateur: Mr Jonasy Ramarolahy

Projet de Renforcement Institutionnel du Secteur Minier Malgache (PRISMM – Project for the Strengthening of the Malagasy Mining Sector):Ministère de l’Energie et des Mines, Rue de Farafaty Ampandrianomby Antananarivo 101 Madagascar Tel: +261 (0)32 04 808 00E-mail: [email protected]

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TolagnaroILMENITE

AmpotakaKAOLIN

AmpanihyGRAPHITE

MANGANESEGRENAT

MananteninaBAUXITE

SakoaCOAL

RanobeILMENITE

BekisopaIRON

BesakoaCOPPER

AmpandrandavaPHLOGOPITE

ValozoroNICKEL

FasintsaraIRON

AmbatovarahinaCOPPER

Ampandramaika-MalakialinaPEGMATITIC

BERYL COLUMBITE

SambainaLIGNITE AND BITUMINOUS

SCHISTS

Antsirabe-ItasyPEGMATITIC FIELD

COLUMBOTANTALITE

BemolangaBITUMEN

SoalalaIRON

BererePEGMATITIC FIELDBERYL COLUMBITE

GYPSEAnkay (Mahazoma)

Ambatovy- AnalamayNICKELIFEROUS- IRON LATERITES

MarovintsyGRAPHITE

AmbatomitambaGRAPHITE

MahakiryCHROMITE

AndriamenaCHROMITE

ILMENITEBEACHES

ILMENITEBEACHES AND DUNES

IharanaCOPPER-BEARING QUARTZ VEINS

MarangakaBAUXITE

AnalavoryBAUXITE

AndavakoeraBARYTE

TranomaroURANOTHORIANITE-PHLOGOPITE

Toliara

Tolagnaro ( Fort-Dauphin)

Mahajanga

Toamasina

Morondava

Tsiroanomandidy

Manakara

Ambositra

Ihosy

Sambava

Antsirabe

Ambovombe

Antsohihy

Maintirano

Antsiranana

Farafangana

Miarinarivo

Maevatanana

Fianarantsoa

Antananarivo

Ambatondrazaka

Tsiroanomandidy

Fenoarivo Atsinanana

0 1 000 000

MINERAL POTENTIAL OF MADAGASCAR

0 150 30075Km

Source: BPGRM; October 2006

Legend

Various indication of mineralisation

Project in their advanced feasibility phass e

Developing mineral

Coast limit

Volcanism

Metamorphism

Alterite

Plutonism

Plutonism, Metamorphism

Plutonism, Volcanism

Sedimentary

Sedimentary, Volcanism



mining journal 06

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