Haiti: Conference to develop mining industry underway

A drill worker listens for the bit, hundreds of feet underground, during exploratory drilling for minerals and metals Haiti. PHOTO/Dieu Nalio Chery/AP

(AP) – Haiti is bringing in mining experts from around the world in hopes of developing the precious metals industry in the country.

Until last year, few knew that Haiti had precious minerals underground. Two mining companies have begun drilling for gold, copper and silver in the country’s northeastern mountains. They say testing indicates the metals could be worth US$20 billion.

The industry could potentially turn the Haiti’s fortunes for the better.

The Martelly administrationi, and implementing partners helped organize the two-day conference that started Monday. It’s the first in Haiti to focus on mining. The bank is also helping the Haitian government revamp its mining laws.