From Geology to Opportunity
Fiji: A Gold-Rich Nation With Modern Mining Potential
Geography & Basic Facts
Welcome to Fiji — an independent South Pacific nation made up of more than 300 islands, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Fiji lies approximately 2,000 km north of New Zealand and 2,800 km east of Australia, placing it firmly within the prolific Pacific “Ring of Fire”, one of the world's most mineral-endowed geological regions. Fiji offers a politically stable, mining-friendly environment with modern infrastructure and a skilled, English-speaking workforce.
- Capital
- Suva (on Viti Levu)
- Major Islands
- Viti Levu (South Island) and Vanua Levu (North Island) — home to Kalo Gold's Vatu Aurum Project
- Language
- English (official), Fijian, Fiji Hindi
- Population
- ~930,000
- Currency
- Fijian Dollar (FJD)
- Government
- Parliamentary democracy
History of Mining in Fiji
Mining in Fiji has a long and successful track record, underpinned by productive epithermal and porphyry systems. The country's most notable success is the Vatukoula Gold Mine, which has produced over 7 million ounces of gold since 1937 and remains in operation today. In recent years, Fiji has attracted growing interest from global mining majors — a clear signal of the country's geological potential and mining-friendly framework.
>7 Moz Au produced since 1937
Fully permitted and operating high-grade underground project
Kalo Gold's emerging gold system
In 2024, Newmont Corporation acquired full control of the Namosi copper-gold porphyry project, solidifying Fiji's appeal as a serious jurisdiction for long-term resource development.
Newmont's acquisition of the Namosi JV underscores the confidence major mining companies have in Fiji's geological endowment, regulatory clarity, and long-term investment stability. Combined with new discoveries like those emerging at Kalo Gold's Vatu Aurum Project, Fiji is well-positioned as a leading Pacific Rim gold and copper exploration frontier.
Mining Law & Licensing
Fiji's mining and exploration framework is governed by the Mining Act (Cap. 146) and regulated by the Mineral Resources Department (MRD) under the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources. Kalo Gold holds two active SPLs on Vanua Levu (SPL 1464 and SPL 1511), covering a combined 367 km² of prospective ground, fully permitted and supported by landowner agreements.
Special Prospecting Licences (SPLs) grant exploration rights for up to 5 years, with renewals permitted.
Land access agreements are mandatory with local landowning communities (Mataqali), ensuring transparent and respectful engagement.
No free carry or state equity requirements.
Environmental and social responsibility are embedded in permitting procedures.
Taxation & Royalties
Fiji offers a competitive fiscal regime for mineral exploration and mining companies. There are no mineral export restrictions, and exploration expenditures can be expensed under a simplified tax structure. These conditions support long-term investment and align stakeholder interests.
A competitive rate that encourages sustained investment in exploration and mining.
Applied to gross proceeds from mineral sales — a clear and simple royalty structure.
80% to the Government of Fiji, 20% to customary landowners via the iTaukei Land Trust Board.
Infrastructure on Vanua Levu (North Island)
Kalo Gold's operations are based on Vanua Levu, Fiji's second-largest island, which hosts essential infrastructure and year-round access. Kalo Gold has secured long-term land access agreements with all impacted Mataqali, ensuring responsible development and strong community partnerships.
Paved and gravel roads, plus proximity to Labasa Airport (70 minutes from project area).
Nearby shipping port in Malau for logistics and material transport.
Grid power available in major towns; exploration camp supported by grid power.
Readily available from local sources with abundant rainfall.
Skilled and semi-skilled labour available locally; strong relationships with village communities.