Resolution 180102 – 2012 by which some minerals are determined as a strategic interest for the country
In 2012, as part of a national plan to foster the development of the mining industry, the Colombian Ministry of Mines and Energy enacted Resolution No 180102 to declare certain minerals as in the strategic interest of the country. This declaration aims to promote a rational, technical, and responsible use of these mineral resources. In addition, it seeks to attract foreign and national investment and foster the national economy and regional development.
According to this resolution, some minerals are fundamental for the development of the Colombian mining industry due to their worldwide demand and relevance. Particularly, the resolution declares the following minerals (and associated, derived or concentrated minerals) as strategic:
- Gold
- Platinum
- Copper
- Phosphate minerals
- Magnesium minerals
- Metallurgical and thermal coal
- Uranium
- Iron
- Niobium and tantalum minerals and/or black sands
The declaration of these mineral groups as strategic implies that the Ministry of Mines and Energy might reserve areas in which these minerals are present and impose special minerals licensing conditions in these zones (such as objective selection process). For instance, on 24 January 2022, the Ministry of Mines and Energy launched a public consultation on the Draft of a Resolution, through which it declares strategic zones for energy mining development.
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