One of the key roles of ANM is to manage and regulate the mining sector within the Territory of Timor-Leste.
From February 18th to March 20th, 2025, the ANM Inspectors monitored and supervised Mineral Rights Holders in the Liquiça and Díli municipalities, in accordance with Article 118 of Law No. 12/2021, of 30 June, on the Mining Code. This initiative aimed to ensure compliance with the commitments outlined in the approved Environmental License and Mineral Permit.
Additionally, the ANM Inspectors carried out random inspections in both municipalities, pursuant to Article 119(4) of Law No. 12/2021, of 30 June, on the Mining Code. During these inspections, it was discovered that certain companies had been conducting Mining Activities—particularly the extraction of sand and rocks without obtaining the required Environmental License and Mineral Permit. The purpose of extraction is for commercialization to private and governmental projects in response to infrastructure development.
Moreover, significant Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) concerns were identified, including the failure to provide workers with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and the lack of water usage to suppress dust at extraction site. Furthermore, companies failed to adequately cover transported materials such as construction materials, leading to environmental degradation and posing health and safety risks to the community. These violations are considered breaches of Law No. 12/2021, of 30 June, on the Mining Code.
Consequently, the administrative offences have been taking against the companies, which include verbal notifications on-site and followed by formal written notification letter, instructing them to cease operations and apply for the Environmental License and Mineral Permit as required under Law No. 12/2021, of 30 June, on the Mining Code.
