THE State should continue to own all minerals found beneath Fiji’s land as they are national resources that must benefit all citizens,
Presenting his submission, Mr Vosarogo said Section 30(1) of the 2013 Constitution correctly placed ownership of minerals with the State while ensuring landowners received a fair share of royalties from extraction.
He argued that mineral resources should not belong to individuals who hold surface land titles, but should be managed by the State as a custodian for present and future generations.
Mr Vosarogo said State ownership allowed Fiji to maximise benefits through royalties, taxes and possible equity participation, which could support public services, infrastructure and national development.
CRC chairperson Sevuloni Valenitabua thanked the minister for his submission, noting that few submissions received by the commission had specifically addressed mineral ownership.
