Unused mining claims in Zimbabwe are set to be revoked by the government, it has been reported.

The state-owned Herald newspaper has revealed that Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe is threatening to revoke claims on land that remains undeveloped for a long period of time, as the country looks to increase production.

Mr Mugabe has placed the mining industry - and in particular platinum mining - at the heart of his efforts to improve the country's ailing economy, but uncertainty surrounding government plans resulted in mining output dropping by 14.4 per cent last year compared to the previous 12 months.

Amos Midzi, Zimbabwe Mines Minister, told the Chamber of Mines that firms must use their properties or face losing them to the government.

"Companies should brace themselves for the new policy 'use it or lose it' unless, of course, under special circumstances, companies should give realistic explanations as to why they want to keep undeveloped mines," Mr Midzi commented.

Concerns that the Zimbabwean government has been looking to take greater control of foreign-owned mines, together with difficult trading conditions, have been blamed by miners for the slowdown of production in Zimbabwe.

Sources:
Midzi warns miners against holding claims for speculative purposes
19/05/07
http://www.herald.co.zw/inside.aspx?sectid=19035&cat=1

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