Mining Sector Diagnostic (MSD)

The Mining Sector Diagnostic (MSD) is a diagnostic tool that is used to comprehensively assess how a country’s mining sector is managed. The tool analyzes primary data (the country’s documented laws, rules and regulations) and interview data (from in-country interviews with stakeholders from government, industry, and civil society) to clearly identify the mining sector’s relative strengths and weaknesses. The results can be used by governments, World Bank teams, development partners and other stakeholders as a basis for policy dialogue leading to reforms and to identify areas of targeted support and assistance.

The MSD is a key tool used to support our mission to help developing countries build strong mining sectors that drive inclusive growth and reduce poverty. 

To learn more about the Mining Sector Diagnostic, please find a short description here and/or consult our FAQs. A more in-depth description of the MSD and its methodology are also available.

COUNTRY REPORTS

The following are examples of recent MSD reports that are publicly available:  

Serbia: leveraging large-scale mining for sustainable development

Following a request from the Serbian Prime Minister’s office, the World Bank began work on the Serbian MSD in 2017 and prepared a short policy note on the mining sector. This note was expanded and led to a request by Minister Antic in June 2018 for a more systematic sector diagnostic. The MSD finds that Serbia has many of the foundations that are necessary for robust management of mining sector development. However, sector management could be improved by strengthening the legal and regulatory framework and coordination/cooperation arrangements among mining-sector relevant ministries and agencies. This would enhance Serbia’s ability to leverage planned large-scale mining investments for sustainable economic development. The results of the Serbia MSD are currently informing and shaping the design of a World Bank technical assistance project requested by the Government.

Colombia: driving new mining policy

The Colombia MSD provides a detailed assessment of strengths and weaknesses - particularly around how to address mining sector management challenges and leverage mining’s contribution to sustainable development. The MSD found that an integrated environmental-mining regulation would reinforce sustainability practices in the mining sector. At the same time, Colombia needs to develop a comprehensive policy for artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). The MSD’s proposed reform agenda has now informed the country’s National Development Plan 2018-2022, including its mineral production diversification strategy.

Indonesia: improving the impact of mining on local communities

The Indonesia MSD, conducted in the context of a broader country engagement, brought stakeholders together to build a mining policy reform dialogue based on practical issues in implementing the Mining Law of 2009. It highlighted that Indonesia needed to consult more with local communities; monitor and mitigate against harmful environmental and social impacts; and improve public disclosure and dissemination of information. Stakeholders followed by digging deeper into possible solutions, providing input into a substantial reform of the Mining Law in 2020.