Zambia’s bold mining reform launches with new regulatory commission
Zambia has launched the Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC), marking a significant overhaul of its mining governance. The new independent body, established through an Act of Parliament in 2025, brings comprehensive regulatory modernization to the country's mining news. The MRC operates as a statutory body with wide-ranging authority over mining operations, replacing the outdated regulatory model in place since 2015. This shift aligns with Zambia's ambitious production targets and economic diversification goals, positioning mining as a central pillar of national development. The Ministry of Mines is restructuring its operations to support this transformation. It plans to establish regional offices across key mining provinces, bringing regulatory services closer to operational sites and reducing bureaucratic delays. The MRC began implementation in November 2025, with office space and equipment already secured. The new regulatory framework aims to enhance transparency, streamline operations, and strengthen investor confidence. It formally oversees mineral regulations and integrates previously fragmented functions into a unified oversight system. The MRC eliminates bureaucratic silos, simplifying compliance and regulatory engagement. The restructured Ministry introduces three dedicated technical departments, each focusing on specific segments of Zambia's diverse mining landscape. The establishment of the Minerals Regulation Commission signals a significant step towards greater formalization, sustainable growth, and improved institutional coordination in Zambia's mining sector. The new regulatory framework, with its independent oversight and targeted support for specific mining segments, is expected to enhance transparency and investor confidence, driving progress towards the country's ambitious mining sector goals.
