TIRANA, June 17ؔhe Albanian Ministry of Economy (METE) has asked the help of the Japanese government to draft a development plan for Albanian mining plants after a detailed study of their situation and functionality. METE’s strategy regarding the next three year aims at the development of the mining sector with contemporary safety standards. As a result, over 90 mines will be shut down during the three year period. Such mines have been labeled as a source of danger for miners and the communities in their vicinity.
METE claims that it has created a competitive market in the mining sector as a result of reduced licenses.
“However, despite the latest developments, a lot remains to be done. The promotion of the mining industry should be achieved based on a long-term plan and with a clear strategy,” declared Minister Genc Ruli. Yet, a simple analysis of the situation reveals that METE does not have an all inclusive plan and the necessary means to achieve such a reform.
Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has been assigned the task of implementation of the new project with its main objective to improve the commercial network of Albanian mines. They are expected to complete a digital map of all mineral natural resources in the Albanian geology, as the first step for the planning and implementation of the Master Plan. The map will be known as the Geographic Information System, or GIS.
The Master Plan is, of course, the main achievement of this study and the final report of this project which aims at the sustainable development of the mining industry. The Plan itself includes several development strategies for each mineral such as chrome, nickel, copper, etc. It will also contain an Action Plan regarding issues of common interest in the industry such as the legislative framework, organizational structures, investments, environmental protection, etc.
The mining sector is one of the main exporting industries in Albania and has suffered a huge blow from the global crisis with prices dropping sharply in international markets.
