In Muzo, Colombia, emerald is actually mined by local laborers, but a huge share of the profit is diverted into the pockets of multinational companies. 

Iran’s first lithium ore deposit is discovered in Hamedan province in west of the country.

A parliament member denies reports suggesting Iran seeks to mine lithium from its largest salt lake.

According to figures from the National Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration Agency, Iran is one of the top ten mineral-rich nations globally.

Iran and Zimbabwe, both grappling with US sanctions, have agreed to develop relations, especially in the economic field.

Iran and Afghanistan will conclude a deal “soon” under which the Islamic Republic will import Afghan coal, minister of commerce and industries in the transitional Taliban government Nuruddin Azizi has said.

Iran will auction some 5,000 small, medium-sized mines as part of efforts to spur activity in the sector.

A contract has been signed with an Iranian company for the extraction of lead and zinc in Afghanistan’s Ghor province, the press office of the provincial governor has said. 

Iran’s customs office says mining accounted for 27% of the value of Iran’s exports in the year to March.

Iran is expected to boost its mining output by 40% with local manufacturing of heavy dump trucks.