Gold falls below US$1,200, miners pleading for more relief

With gold prices falling below the key support level of US$1,200, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) is again pressing government for urgent and significant relief.

Having fallen dramatically from its 2011 high of around US$1,900, the GGDMA in a statement yesterday said it continues to monitor with deep concern the falling price of gold on the international market and is continuing its efforts to work with the government to find relief for the mining sector.

The GGDMA said it has been working in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment since late last year when the price began its decline and several concessions have been made to help relieve the situation. The Government has approved an additional vehicle duty-free concession for miners who produce over 500 ounces of gold annually and paved the way for the duty-free importation of