Saurimo - Diamond cooperatives that intend to continue operating should be organised in a business way and pay tax contributions, the Minister for Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo said Friday in Saurimo.
According to the Cabinet minister, who was speaking at a formal meeting with mineral operators from Lunda Sul province, artisanal and semi-industrial cooperatives should become industrial companies within two years.
In his view, when they start production they should contribute to raising revenues for the state.
Compliance with standards, he said, was also important for preserving the value of natural diamonds, at a time when synthetic diamonds are gaining increasing space.
He explained that a large number of already licensed cooperatives were "inoperative," some because they were still in the process of mobilising resources and equipment, while others were negotiating partnerships with potential investors or financial backers.
Without pointing out data of the current levels of national production, Diamantino Azevedo, referred that besides the Government being focused on the exploration of other metals such as gold, magnesium and iron, among others, diamonds are still considered the main minerals that contribute to the State coffers.
