The Autonomous Bougainville Government has granted a 25-year mining lease to Bougainville Minerals Limited, the first of its kind under the region’s updated mining legislation. The approval, confirmed by the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC), follows the recent passage of the Bougainville Mining (Amendment) Act 2026. This lease, designated as Large-Scale Mining Lease No. 01 (LSML-01), signals a resumption of large-scale mining operations in the region. Details surrounding the lease terms and potential economic impacts were not immediately available. The decision represents a significant step for Bougainville’s economic future, potentially unlocking resources and revenue. However, the move also comes with considerations regarding environmental and social impacts, given the region’s history with mining. Access to further details requires a subscription to Post Courier.