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Neutral legal concepts and the provisions across the corpus that address each. Tags are a model pass awaiting human review; they describe what a provision is about and take no doctrinal position.

the_area_and_common_heritage (273)

The Area and its resources as the common heritage of mankind; non-appropriation; vesting of rights in mankind as a whole.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Section 5. Legal title to Minerals 5.1 The Contractor will obtain title to and property over the Minerals upon recovery of the Minerals from the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof [onto the Contractor’s mining vessel or Installation], in compliance with this Contract. 5.2 This Contract shall not create, nor be deemed to confer, any interest or right on the Contractor in or over any other part of the Area and its Resources other than those rights expressly granted in this Contract.
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Section 5. Legal title to Minerals 5.1 The Contractor will obtain title to and property over the Minerals upon recovery of the Minerals from the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof [onto the Contractor’s mining vessel or Installation], in compliance with this Contract. 5.2 This Contract shall not create, nor be deemed to confer, any interest or right on the Contractor in or over any other part of the Area and its Resources other than those rights expressly granted in this Contract.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: preamble/chapeau
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: preamble/chapeau
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 8. Объекты, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Изыскатель незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в Районе любого объекта, имеющего фактическое или потенциальное археологическое или историческое значение, и о его местонахождении. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры.; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 15. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений соответствующих органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 16. Право заявителя на выбор между передачей зарезервированного района или предложением доли в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия Каждый заявитель в своей заявке выбирает либо: a) передать зарезервированный район для проведения деятельности согласно статье 9 приложения III к Конвенции в соответствии с правилом 17; либо; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 19. Доля в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 26. Права контрактора; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 28. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 37. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь незамедлительно препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисково-разведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 38. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 43. Ресурсы помимо кобальтовых корок Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо кобальтовых корок, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел V. Обязательства; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » ______________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Добавление 1. [Координаты и иллюстративная карта разведочного района]; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно кобальтовых корок в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第12条申请书涵盖的总区域; 第15条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，各申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第17条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第26条承包者的权利; 第27条区域面积和放弃; 第28条合同期限; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第43条钴结壳以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现钴结壳以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): preamble/chapeau
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 8. Объекты, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Изыскатель незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в Районе любого объекта, имеющего фактическое или потенциальное археологическое или историческое значение, и о его местонахождении. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры.; Правило 12. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 14. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 15. Целый район, указанный в заявке В каждой заявке на утверждение плана работы по разведке определяются границы заявочного района с помощью перечня географических координат, указанных в соответствии с наиболее свежим общепринятым международным стандартом, используемым Органом. В заявках (кроме заявок, подаваемых согласно правилу 17) указывается целый район, который не обязательно является единым непрерывным районом, но достаточно обширным и имеющим достаточную предположительную коммерческую ценность, чтобы позволить ведение двух операций по добыче. Заявитель указывает координаты, разделяющие район на две части одинаковой предположительной коммерческой ценности. Район, выделяемый заявителю, регулируется положениями правила 25.; Правило 16. Данные и информация, представленные до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 17. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 21. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 24. Права контрактора; Правило 25. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 26. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 33. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 34. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 35. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 36. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 41. Ресурсы помимо полиметаллических конкреций Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо полиметаллических конкреций, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информацияa; Раздел V. Обязательства; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИМ КОНТРАКТОМ, заключенным «___» ____________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТСЯ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Добавление 1. [Координаты и иллюстративная карта разведочного района]; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических конкреций в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащую государству организацию, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 21. Приостановление или прекращение действия контракта и санкции
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的考虑; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第12条财政和技术能力; 第14条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，每个申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第15条申请的总区域每一份请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书应以符合管理局采用的最新公认国际标准的坐标表界定所申请区域的界限。除了第 17 条下的申请外，申请应包括一个总区域，它不必是一个单一连续的区域，但应足够大，并有足够的估计商业价值，可供从事两起采矿作业。申请者应列明坐标，将该区域分为估计商业价值相等的两个部分。分配给申请者的区域应受第 25 条各项规定的限制。; 第16条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第17条请求核准保留区工作计划的申请; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第24条承包者的权利; 第25条区域面积和放弃; 第26条合同期限; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第33条紧急命令; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第36条数据和资料的机密性; 第41条多金属结核以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属结核以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): preamble/chapeau
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: preamble/chapeau
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: preamble/chapeau
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 8. Объекты, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Изыскатель незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в Районе любого объекта, имеющего фактическое или потенциальное археологическое или историческое значение, и о его местонахождении. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры.; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 15. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений соответствующих органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 16. Право заявителя на выбор между передачей зарезервированного района или долей в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия Каждый заявитель в своей заявке выбирает либо: a) передать зарезервированный район для проведения деятельности согласно статье 9 приложения III к Конвенции в соответствии с правилом 17, либо;; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 19. Доля в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 26. Права контрактора; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 28. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 37. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 38. Данные и информация, имеющие характер собственности, и конфиденциальность; Правило 43. Ресурсы помимо полиметаллических сульфидов Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо полиметаллических сульфидов, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Приложение 1. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел V. Обязательства; Приложение 3. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » _____ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий A. Стандартные условия, приводимые в приложении 2 к Правилам поиска и разведки полиметаллических сульфидов в Районе, включаются в настоящий контракт и имеют такую же силу, как если бы они развернуто приводились в самом контракте. Разведочный район B. Для целей настоящего контракта «разведочный район» означает ту часть Района, которая выделена Контрактору для разведки; она определяется перечисленными в добавлении 1 к контракту координатами и может периодически сокращаться в соответствии со стандартными условиями и Правилами. Предоставление прав C. С учетом: 1) их взаимной заинтересованности в осуществлении деятельности по разведке в разведочном районе в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением, 2) ответственность Органа за организацию и контроль деятельности в Районе, особенно в целях управления ресурсами Района, в соответствии с правовым режимом, установленным, соответственно, в части XI Конвенции и Соглашении и в части XII Конвенции, и 3) интересов и финансовых обязательств Контрактора в осуществлении деятельности в разведочном районе и взаимных договоренностей, закрепленных в настоящем контракте, Орган настоящим предоставляет Контрактору исключительное право на разведку полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе в соответствии с условиями настоящего контракта. Вступление в силу и срок действия контракта D. Настоящий контракт вступает в силу по его подписании обеими сторонами и с соблюдением стандартных условий остается в силе в течение последующих пятнадцати лет, если только: 1) Контрактор не получит контракт на разработку в разведочном районе, вступающий в силу до истечения такого пятнадцатилетнего периода, или 2) контракт не будет прекращен ранее, при условии что срок действия контракта может быть продлен в соответствии со стандартными условиями 3.2 и 17.2. Добавления E. Добавления, упоминаемые в стандартных условиях, а именно в разделе 4 и разделе 8, являются для целей настоящего контракта, соответственно, добавлениями 2 и 3. Содержание соглашения F. Настоящий контракт заключает в себе все содержание соглашения между сторонами, и никакие устные договоренности или предшествующие документы не меняют его условий. В УДОСТОВЕРЕНИЕ ЧЕГО нижеподписавшиеся, должным образом на то уполномоченные соответствующими сторонами, подписали « » ______ года в __________ настоящий контракт.; Добавление 1. [Координаты и иллюстративная карта разведочного района]; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将该事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第12条申请书包括的总区域; 第15条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，各申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第17条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第26条承包者的权利; 第27条区域面积和放弃; 第28条合同期限; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第43条多金属硫化物以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属硫化物以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): preamble/chapeau
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 71; Paragraph 75; Paragraph 76; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 159; Paragraph 179; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 226
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 76; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 159; Paragraph 179; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 230; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Kittichaisaree, 18 July 2026 (Cases Nos. 34 and 35): Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 47; Paragraph 48; Paragraph 49; Paragraph 151
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: preamble/chapeau
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 136. Patrimoine commun de l’humanité; Article 137. Régime juridique de la zone et de ses ressources; Article 140. Intérêt de l’humanité; Article 142. Droits et intérêts légitimes des États côtiers; Article 143. Recherche scientifique marine; Article 149. Objets archéologiques et historiques; Article 150. Politique générale relative aux activités menées dans la; Article 155. Conférence de révision
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 136. Common heritage of mankind; Article 137. Legal status of the Area and its resources; Article 140. Benefit of mankind; Article 143. Marine scientific research; Article 149. Archaeological and historical objects; Article 150. Policies relating to activities in the Area; Article 155. The Review Conference
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.100. Purpose.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1401. Congressional findings and declaration of purpose.; Section 1402. International objectives.

definitions_and_scope (140)

Defined terms ("resources", "minerals", "activities in the Area") and the scope/application of the instrument.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 1. Use of terms, [phrases] and scope 1. Terms used in the Convention shall have the same meaning in these Regulations.; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 67. Royalty return period A royalty return period for the purposes of this Part is a half-year return period, from:; Regulation 78. Arm’s-length adjustments 1. For the purposes of this regulation:; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 1. Use of terms, [phrases] and scope; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 67. Royalty return period A royalty return period for the purposes of this Part is a half-year return period, from: 1 January to 30 June; and 1 July to 31 December.; Regulation 78. Arm’s-length adjustments; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 12. Superficie totale de la zone visée par la demande; Article 40. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article I. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au Contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le Contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le Contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le Contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le Contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le Contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le Contractant ni une entreprise apparentée ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent d’aucune manière faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les encroûtements cobaltifères se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du Contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le Contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du Contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un document électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins dix jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un courrier électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du Contractant vaut notification au Contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du Contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » ______________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно кобальтовых корок в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第12条申请书涵盖的总区域; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第37条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应立即将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，在理事会考虑到联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事或任何其他主管国际组织的意见后另有决定之前，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探。; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 18. Disclaimer Neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company or subcontractor shall in any manner claim or suggest, whether expressly or by implication, that the Authority or any official thereof has, or has expressed, any opinion with respect to cobalt crusts in the exploration area and a statement to that effect shall not be included in or endorsed on any prospectus, notice, circular, advertisement, press release or similar document issued by the Contractor, any affiliated company or any subcontractor that refers directly or indirectly to this contract. For the purposes of this section, an “affiliated company” means any person, firm or company or State-owned entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Contractor.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 38. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 1. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le contractant, ni une entreprise apparentée, ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les nodules polymétalliques se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un courrier électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins 10 jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un courrier électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du contractant vaut notification au contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 16. Данные и информация, представленные до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИМ КОНТРАКТОМ, заключенным «___» ____________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТСЯ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических конкреций в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащую государству организацию, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第35条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应立即将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，在理事会考虑到联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事或任何其他主管国际组织的意见后另有决定之前，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探。; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the ... day of ... between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and ... represented by ... (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 18. Disclaimer Neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company or subcontractor shall in any manner claim or suggest, whether expressly or by implication, that the Authority or any official thereof has, or has expressed, any opinion with respect to polymetallic nodules in the exploration area and a statement to that effect shall not be included in or endorsed on any prospectus, notice, circular, advertisement, press release or similar document issued by the Contractor, any affiliated company or any subcontractor that refers directly or indirectly to this contract. For the purposes of this section, an “affiliated company” means any person, firm or company or Stateowned entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Contractor.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 12. Zone visée par la demande; Article 21. Droits afférents aux demandes; Article 40. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 1. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au Contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le Contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le Contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le Contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le Contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le Contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le Contractant ni une entreprise apparentée ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent d’aucune manière faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les sulfures polymétalliques se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du Contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le Contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du Contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un document électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins 10 jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un document électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du Contractant vaut notification au Contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du Contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Приложение 3. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » _____ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий A. Стандартные условия, приводимые в приложении 2 к Правилам поиска и разведки полиметаллических сульфидов в Районе, включаются в настоящий контракт и имеют такую же силу, как если бы они развернуто приводились в самом контракте. Разведочный район B. Для целей настоящего контракта «разведочный район» означает ту часть Района, которая выделена Контрактору для разведки; она определяется перечисленными в добавлении 1 к контракту координатами и может периодически сокращаться в соответствии со стандартными условиями и Правилами. Предоставление прав C. С учетом: 1) их взаимной заинтересованности в осуществлении деятельности по разведке в разведочном районе в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением, 2) ответственность Органа за организацию и контроль деятельности в Районе, особенно в целях управления ресурсами Района, в соответствии с правовым режимом, установленным, соответственно, в части XI Конвенции и Соглашении и в части XII Конвенции, и 3) интересов и финансовых обязательств Контрактора в осуществлении деятельности в разведочном районе и взаимных договоренностей, закрепленных в настоящем контракте, Орган настоящим предоставляет Контрактору исключительное право на разведку полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе в соответствии с условиями настоящего контракта. Вступление в силу и срок действия контракта D. Настоящий контракт вступает в силу по его подписании обеими сторонами и с соблюдением стандартных условий остается в силе в течение последующих пятнадцати лет, если только: 1) Контрактор не получит контракт на разработку в разведочном районе, вступающий в силу до истечения такого пятнадцатилетнего периода, или 2) контракт не будет прекращен ранее, при условии что срок действия контракта может быть продлен в соответствии со стандартными условиями 3.2 и 17.2. Добавления E. Добавления, упоминаемые в стандартных условиях, а именно в разделе 4 и разделе 8, являются для целей настоящего контракта, соответственно, добавлениями 2 и 3. Содержание соглашения F. Настоящий контракт заключает в себе все содержание соглашения между сторонами, и никакие устные договоренности или предшествующие документы не меняют его условий. В УДОСТОВЕРЕНИЕ ЧЕГО нижеподписавшиеся, должным образом на то уполномоченные соответствующими сторонами, подписали « » ______ года в __________ настоящий контракт.; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第12条申请书包括的总区域; 第21条申请费; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第37条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将该事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探，直至理事会在考虑联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织的意见后做出决定。; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope; Annex 3. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the day of between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and represented by (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses A. The standard clauses set out in annex 4 to the Regulations on Prospecting and Exploration for Polymetallic Sulphides in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. Exploration area B. For the purposes of this contract, the “exploration area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for exploration, defined by the coordinates listed in; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 18. Disclaimer Neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company or subcontractor shall in any manner claim or suggest, whether expressly or by implication, that the Authority or any official thereof has, or has expressed, any opinion with respect to polymetallic sulphides in the exploration area and a statement to that effect shall not be included in or endorsed on any prospectus, notice, circular, advertisement, press release or similar document issued by the Contractor, any affiliated company or any subcontractor that refers directly or indirectly to this contract. For the purposes of this section, an “affiliated company” means any person, firm or company or Stateowned entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Contractor.
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 34; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 89; Paragraph 156
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 41. Change of ownership, constitution or control of a Sponsored. Party (1) A Sponsored Party shall, as soon as practicable, notify the Authority of any change in the constitution, ownership, control or corporate organisation of the Sponsored Party, if such change is significant. (2) A notification by the Sponsored Party shall be accompanied by the prescribed information. (3) The Authority, within 30 Days from the date of receipt of a notice under subsection (1), shall examine the information provided by the Sponsored Party and assess whether the Qualification Criteria is met. (4) Where the Authority considers that one or more of the Qualification Criteria is not met, it shall notify the Sponsored Party and request that the identified deficiency be remedied within a specified time period. (5) Where the deficiency cannot be remedied, the Authority may initiate revocation of the Sponsorship Certificate under Section 42. (6) For the purposes of this Section ‘significant’ means: (a) the Sponsored Party has been bought by or transferred to another person; (b) a person obtains the power whether directly or indirectly to exercise or control the exercise of, 50% or more of the voting rights of the Sponsored Party; (c) there is a change in control of an Affiliate, Associate or persons involved in the management of the applicant’s business; or (d) there is a change in control of a person providing a security deposit under Section 52 of the Act.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 20. Incidents and Inquiries (1) Where an Incident occurs in respect of a Seabed Mineral Activity under the Sponsorship of the Kingdom, the Sponsored Party shall inform the ISA and copy all information provided to the ISA to the Authority. For the purposes of this section an Incident shall (without limitation) be deemed to have occurred when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, or damaged; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by a medical practitioner not affiliated with the Title Holder, Seabed 2020 Revised Edition Page 19 Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law. (2) A Title Holder involved in an Incident shall report it to the Authority in accordance with section 39 of this Act, and shall respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the Authority‘s instructions, or the ISA‘s instructions where relevant. (3) The Authority may hold, or may commission, inquiries into Incidents. (4) The Authority shall provide such administrative assistance to a Title Holder as is expedient to facilitate the Title Holder‘s efficient response to an Incident.; Section 30. Constitution of cells For the purposes of this Act the Authority may further divide blocks into smaller divisions, called cells.; Section 114. Interference with Seabed Mineral Activities (1) Unless authorised under this Act or Regulations made under this Act, no person may interfere with Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations. (2) For the purposes of this section, “interfere” means wilful sabotage of Seabed Mineral Activities, or violence against any representative of the Authority or a Page 60 2020 Revised Edition Title Holder in the performance of their functions and duties under this Act or a Title, or similar physical interference or obstruction without reasonable excuse. (3) Any person who does not comply with subsection (1) commits an offence. (4) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000 or to a prison term not exceeding ten years or both.; Section 117. Disclosure of interest (1) Any person employed at the Ministry or otherwise having a role or influence in the administration of this Act who has an interest, direct or indirect, in any matter to be considered by the Authority shall disclose the nature of his interest to the Authority and such disclosure shall be recorded in the minutes of the Authority and that member shall not take part in any deliberation or decision of the Authority relating to the matter. A member who does not make such disclosure commits an offence and shall upon conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or both. (2) For the purposes of this Act, “interest” shall be defined as including, but not limited to, that person or members of that person‘s family having direct or indirect ownership of shares or involvement in the funding or management of any entity conducting or funding activities in Tonga or being conducted under Tonga‘s sponsorship, and any direct or indirect benefits. 2020 Revised Edition Page 61; Section 119. Information-handling (1) All records, returns, reports, plans, maps, surveys, cores, samples, assays of samples, accounts and information (for the purposes of this section the “Seabed Minerals Data”) which a Title Holder is or may be from time to time required to furnish under the provisions of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act or a Title shall be supplied at the expense of the Title Holder. (2) The Authority shall not disclose Seabed Minerals Data to any person not in the service or employment of the Crown, except- (a) with the prior written consent of the Title Holder; (b) to the extent necessary in connection with the administration of this Act, as provided in subsection (3), or as prescribed; or (c) after twelve years from the date of receipt or until the expiry of any Title held by the Title Holder for the seabed area to which the Seabed Minerals Data relates, whichever is the longer. (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2), the Authority shall be entitled- (a) to make publicly available, as part of the register of Titles held pursuant to section 34 of this Act, aspects of the Seabed Minerals Data required to be recorded in the Register; (b) to make publicly available any documents required to be disclosed under any Regulations made under this Act, including Annual Reports, Applications and Titles; (c) to prepare and publish reports, statistics and surveys of a general nature using information derived from any of the Seabed Minerals Data; (d) where expedient in furtherance of its accountability function, to share information derived from the Seabed Minerals Data with the public of Tonga, provided that such disclosure would not be unduly prejudicial to the commercial interests of the Title Holder; and Page 62 2020 Revised Edition (e) to make use of the Seabed Minerals Data for the purpose of any arbitration or litigation between the Crown and a Title Holder. (4) Prior to any disclosure or publication under subsection (3) that the Authority considers may prejudice the commercial interests of a Title Holder, the Authority shall consult the Title Holder about the content and shall ensure any comments received from the Title Holder in relation to the intended disclosure or publication are given due consideration before any disclosure or publication occurs. (5) Nothing in this section shall permit disclosure without prior consent by the Authority of Seabed Minerals Data that is confidential under applicable law, including but not limited to, personnel matters, confidential technical or proprietary information and intellectual property relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, and privileged legal material. (6) Any employee or member of the Authority, or any other officer of the Crown who commits an offence in breach of this section, by- (a) disclosing Seabed Minerals Data; or (b) causing the loss of confidentiality of Seabed Minerals Data through reckless act or omission. (7) Any person who commits a breach of the type specified in subsection (6) is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $250,000 or ten years imprisonment.
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 8. États Parties
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 8. States Parties
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: preamble/chapeau
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 133. Emploi des termes; Article 161. Composition, procédure et vote
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 133. Use of terms; Article 134. Scope of this Part
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.300. Purposes and definitions.; Section 970.302. Procedures and criteria for resolving conflicts.
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.901. Formal hearing procedures.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1419. Protection of the environment.

sponsoring_state_responsibility_and_liability (698)

Responsibility of States (and sponsoring States) to ensure compliance, and liability for damage arising from activities in the Area.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract 1. An Exploitation Contract can only be terminated:; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 22. Use of Exploitation Contract as security; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 24. Change of Control; Regulation 24 bis. Change of Nationality; Regulation 26. Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee/Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 35. Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage]; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Prevention of corruption; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 51. Compliance with the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 55. Purpose of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The purpose of the ECF is to provide adequate compensation for any damage arising from activities conducted under an Exploitation Contract in cases where a Contractor does not meet its liability in full, and where all other options under these Regulations for claiming compensation from the Contractor have been exhausted, while the Sponsoring State is not liable under article 139, paragraph 2, of the Convention. Compensation includes the costs of reasonable measures undertaken to prevent, limit, or remedy damage to the Marine Environment [, as well as those related to restitution, Restoration and Rehabilitation]. 2. The operation of the ECF shall be subject to periodic review.]; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the noncompliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection. ] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [Alt. 1 objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Alt. 2 Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with [regulation 35 and] any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 105. Sponsoring States Without prejudice to regulations 5, 6 and 21, and to the generality of their obligations under article 139, paragraph 2, and article 153, paragraph 4, of the Convention and article 4, paragraph 4, of Annex III to the Convention, Sponsoring States shall, in particular, take all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by Contractors they have sponsored in accordance with Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement, rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and the terms and conditions of the Exploitation Contract.; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Section I. Information concerning the applicant 1. Name of applicant. 2. Street address of applicant. 3. Postal address (if different from above). 4. Telephone number of applicant’s Designated Representative. 5. [omitted] 6. Email address of applicant’s Designated Representative. 7. Name of applicant’s Designated Representative.; Section IV. Financial information; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Section 6. Use of subcontractors and third parties 6.1 No Contractor may subcontract any part of its obligations under this Contract unless the subcontract contains appropriate terms and conditions to ensure that the performance of the subcontract will reflect and uphold the same standards and requirements of this Contract between the Contractor and the Authority. 6.2 The Contractor shall ensure the adequacy of its systems and procedures for the supervision and management of its subcontractors and any work that is further subcontracted, in accordance with Good Industry Practice. 6.2.bis. The Contractor shall apply due diligence in selecting its suppliers, and shall be responsible to ensure the adequacy of goods and services it procures, in accordance with Good Industry Practice].6.3 Nothing in this section shall relieve the Contractor of any obligation or liability under this Contract, and the Contractor shall remain responsible and liable to the Authority for the performance of its obligations under this Contract in the event that it subcontracts any aspect of the performance of those obligations.; Section 7. Responsibility and liability 7.1 [In accordance with the ‘polluter pays’ principle,] the Contractor shall be liable to the Authority for the actual amount of [all environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising out of activities of the Contractor] / [any damage, including damage to the Marine Environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract [arising out of its wrongful acts [or omissions]] ] [], account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority or third parties. This clause survives the termination of the Contract and applies to all damage [] [arising out of the Contractors wrongful acts [or omissions]] regardless of whether it is caused or arises before, during or after the completion of the Exploitation activities or Contract term. [For the purpose of clauses 7.1 and 7.2, ‘wrongful acts or omissions’, means any unlawful act or omission attributable to the Contractor that results in damage not anticipated and approved in the Plan of Work, irrespective of bad intention or negligence.] [[Recoverable damages under this clause include: costs of reasonable measures to prevent and limit damage to the Marine Environment, lost revenue, reinstatement, pay-out in lieu of actual reinstatement, and/or measures to compensate for third-party economic loss, as well as pure ecological loss and harm to the living resources of the Area.] For the avoidance of doubt, strict liability in this context applies the polluter pays principle, and means, it is not necessary to prove that a Contractor intended to commit or was reckless as to committing a wrongful act or omission, it is necessary only to demonstrate unpermitted damage or harm arose as a result of a Contractor’s wrongful act for the Contractor to be held liable for that damage or harm. ] 7.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any [wrongful] environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising from activities of the Contractor. 7.3 The Authority shall be liable to the Contractor for the actual amount of any damage caused to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] or third parties. 7.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention.; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of s uch renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 22. Use of Exploitation Contract as security; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 24. Change of Control; Regulation 24 bis. Change of Nationality; Regulation 26 Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee / Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 35 Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature][Underwater Cultural Heritage] [1. Exploitation activities in the Area shall be conducted in a way that does not affect human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage].; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 52. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 55. Purpose of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The purpose of the ECF is to provide adequate compensation for any damage arising from activities conducted under an Exploitation Contract in cases where a Contractor does not meet its liability in full, and where all other options under these Regulations for claiming compensation from the Contractor have been exhausted, while the Sponsoring State is not liable under article 139, paragraph 2, of the Convention. Compensation includes the costs of reasonable measures undertaken to prevent, limit, or remedy damage to the Marine Environment [, as well as those related to restitution, Restoration and Rehabilitation].; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the non-compliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection.] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with Regulation 35 and any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 105. Sponsoring States; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section IV. Financial information; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Section 6. Use of subcontractors and third parties 6.1 No Contractor may subcontract any part of its obligations under this Contract unless the subcontract contains appropriate terms and conditions to ensure that the performance of the subcontract will reflect and uphold the same standards and requirements of this Contract between the Contractor and the Authority. 6.2 The Contractor shall ensure the adequacy of its systems and procedures for the supervision and management of its subcontractors and any work that is further subcontracted, in accordance with Good Industry Practice. 6.2. bis The Contractor shall apply due diligence in selecting its suppliers, and shall be responsible to ensure the adequacy of goods and services it procures, in accordance with Good Industry Practice]. 6.3 Nothing in this section shall relieve the Contractor of any obligation or liability under this Contract, and the Contractor shall remain responsible and liable to the Authority for the performance of its obligations under this Contract in the event that it subcontracts any aspect of the performance of those obligations.; Section 7. Responsibility and liability 7.1 [In accordance with the ‘polluter pays’ principle,] the Contractor shall be liable to the Authority for the actual amount of [all environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising out of activities of the Contractor] / [any damage, including damage to the Marine Environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract [arising out of its wrongful acts [or omissions]]] [], account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority or third parties. This clause survives the termination of the Contract and applies to all damage [] [arising out of the Contractors wrongful acts [or omissions]] regardless of whether it is caused or arises before, during or after the completion of the Exploitation activities or Contract term. [For the purpose of clauses 7.1 and 7.2, ‘wrongful acts or omissions’, means any unlawful act or omission attributable to the Contractor that results in damage not anticipated and approved in the Plan of Work, irrespective of bad intention or negligence.] [[Recoverable damages under this clause include: costs of reasonable measures to prevent and limit damage to the Marine Environment, lost revenue, reinstatement, pay-out in lieu of actual reinstatement, and/or measures to compensate for third-party economic loss, as well as pure ecological loss and harm to the living resources of the Area.] For the avoidance of doubt, strict liability in this context applies the polluter pays principle, and means, it is not necessary to prove that a Contractor intended to commit or was reckless as to committing a wrongful act or omission, it is necessary only to demonstrate unpermitted damage or harm arose as a result of a Contractor’s wrongful act for the Contractor to be held liable for that damage or harm.] 7.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any [wrongful] environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising from activities of the Contractor. 7.3 The Authority shall be liable to the Contractor for the actual amount of any damage caused to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] or third parties. 7.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention.; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 14; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 31. Cessation du patronage; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 39. Protection de la confidentialité; Section I. Renseignements concernant le demandeur; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceuxci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 31. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同所涉所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第31条担保的终止; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Regulation 31. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 44. Review; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for cobalt crusts in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than cobalt crusts with third parties in the area covered by this contract.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations. 46 12-57345; Section 20. Termination of sponsorship 20.1 If the nationality or control of the Contractor changes or the Contractor’s sponsoring State, as defined in the Regulations, terminates its sponsorship, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Authority forthwith. 20.2 In either such event, if the Contractor does not obtain another sponsor meeting the requirements prescribed in the Regulations which submits to the Authority a certificate of sponsorship for the Contractor in the prescribed form within the time specified in the Regulations, this contract shall terminate forthwith.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 14; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 22; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Capacité financière et technique; Article 29. Cessation du patronage; Article 30. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 31. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 33. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 37. Protection de la confidentialité; Section I. Renseignements concernant le demandeur; Section III. Informations financières et techniquesa; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 21. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 29. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 33. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 34. Права прибрежных государств; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информацияa; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条财政和技术能力; 第17条请求核准保留区工作计划的申请; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第27条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第29条担保的终止; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第32条环境基线和监测; 第33条紧急命令; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 12. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 17. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 21. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 27. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Regulation 29. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 31. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 32. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 33. Emergency orders; Regulation 34. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 42. Review; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section III. Financial and technical informationa; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for polymetallic nodules in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than polymetallic nodules with third parties in the area covered by this contract. 36 13-40403; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its 44 13-40403 operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations.; Section 20. Termination of sponsorship 20.1 If the nationality or control of the Contractor changes or the Contractor’s sponsoring State, as defined in the Regulations, terminates its sponsorship, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Authority forthwith. 20.2 In either such event, if the Contractor does not obtain another sponsor meeting the requirements prescribed in the Regulations which submits to the Authority a certificate of sponsorship for the Contractor in the prescribed form within the time specified in the Regulations, this contract shall terminate forthwith.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 31. Cessation du patronage; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 39. Protection de la confidentialité; Section I. Renseignements concernant le demandeur; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et soustraitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 31. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第31条担保的终止; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Regulation 31. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 44. Review; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for polymetallic sulphides in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than polymetallic sulphides with third parties in the area covered by this contract.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2, of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2, of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations. 46 10-63720; Section 20. Termination of sponsorship 20.1 If the nationality or control of the Contractor changes or the Contractor’s sponsoring State, as defined in the Regulations, terminates its sponsorship, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Authority forthwith. 20.2 In either such event, if the Contractor does not obtain another sponsor meeting the requirements prescribed in the Regulations which submits to the Authority a certificate of sponsorship for the Contractor in the prescribed form within the time specified in the Regulations, this contract shall terminate forthwith.
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 29; Paragraph 38; Paragraph 63; Paragraph 66; Paragraph 67; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 110; Paragraph 111; Paragraph 112; Paragraph 114; Paragraph 115; Paragraph 116; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 119; Paragraph 120; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 132; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 147; Paragraph 152; Paragraph 158; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 166; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 169; Paragraph 171; Paragraph 172; Paragraph 173; Paragraph 174; Paragraph 176; Paragraph 177; Paragraph 180; Paragraph 182; Paragraph 183; Paragraph 184; Paragraph 186; Paragraph 187; Paragraph 191; Paragraph 192; Paragraph 194; Paragraph 195; Paragraph 196; Paragraph 198; Paragraph 200; Paragraph 201; Paragraph 203; Paragraph 204; Paragraph 205; Paragraph 207; Paragraph 208; Paragraph 209; Paragraph 210; Paragraph 211; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 219; Paragraph 225; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 229; Paragraph 239; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 29; Paragraph 38; Paragraph 63; Paragraph 66; Paragraph 67; Paragraph 69; Paragraph 70; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 75; Paragraph 76; Paragraph 81; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 101; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 106; Paragraph 107; Paragraph 108; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 110; Paragraph 112; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 119; Paragraph 120; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 127; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 133; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 143; Paragraph 147; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 152; Paragraph 158; Paragraph 159; Paragraph 160; Paragraph 161; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 166; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 169; Paragraph 171; Paragraph 172; Paragraph 173; Paragraph 174; Paragraph 176; Paragraph 177; Paragraph 180; Paragraph 182; Paragraph 183; Paragraph 184; Paragraph 186; Paragraph 187; Paragraph 191; Paragraph 192; Paragraph 195; Paragraph 198; Paragraph 200; Paragraph 201; Paragraph 202; Paragraph 203; Paragraph 204; Paragraph 205; Paragraph 207; Paragraph 209; Paragraph 210; Paragraph 211; Paragraph 214; Paragraph 215; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 219; Paragraph 221; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 224; Paragraph 225; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 228; Paragraph 229; Paragraph 230; Paragraph 231; Paragraph 232; Paragraph 233; Paragraph 234; Paragraph 235; Paragraph 236; Paragraph 238; Paragraph 239; Paragraph 240; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Kittichaisaree, 18 July 2026 (Cases Nos. 34 and 35): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order 2026/6 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 6; Paragraph 35; Paragraph 38; Paragraph 48; Paragraph 57; Paragraph 58; Paragraph 129; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 141; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 154; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 169; Paragraph 184
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 3. Definitions. (1) In these Regulations: ‘Act’ means the Nauru Seabed Authority Act of 2024; ‘Applicable Guideline’ means a guideline issued by the Authority under regulation 55 or a guideline issued by the ISA, as the context requires; ‘Applicable Standard’ means a standard approved by the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, or a standard approved by the Minister under regulation 55 as the context requires; ‘Authorised Representative’ means the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority and any duly authorised officer performing functions of the Authority under the Act; ‘Best Available Techniques’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Environmental Practices’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Available Scientific Information’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Board’ means the Board of Directors of the Authority; ‘Closure Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Continual Improvement’ means a process of enhancing, on an ongoing basis, the measures in order to achieve improvements in overall health, safety and environmental performance consistent with the ISA’s and Sponsored Party’s health, safety and environmental policies and objectives; ‘Control Measure’ means a system, an item of equipment, a person or a procedure, that is used as a basis for managing the health, safety and environmental impacts and risks of an activity; ‘Early Warning Indicator Criteria’ means criteria used to give an early warning that an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome may be breached or not met; ‘Environmental Performance’ means the performance of a Sponsored Party in relation to the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental; Section 4. Performance Outcomes set out in an Environmental Management and. Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Impact’ means any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, that wholly or partly results from the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Impact Assessment’ means an impact assessment conducted in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management System’, has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA and used to manage the environmental aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Performance Objective’ means the performance objectives included in an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Performance Outcome’ means a measurable level of performance (qualitative or quantitative) for the desired state of the marine environment, including the quantitative value or concentration of a particular substance in the water column, sediment, or biota, arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities, which shall not be exceeded in order to protect the marine environment as set out in the Applicable Standards or an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Response and Contingency Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Risk’ means the chance of something happening that will have an adverse Environmental Impact, measured in terms of the environmental consequences and the likelihood of those particular consequences occurring; ‘Financing Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Good Industry Practice’ has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Management System’ means a system for managing the health and safety aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities, including occupational health and safety; ‘Health and Safety Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Performance Standard’ means a standard, established by a Sponsored Party, of the performance required of a system, item of equipment, person or procedure which is used as a basis for managing the risk of a major accident event; ‘ICC’ means the International Chamber of Commerce as defined under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules; ‘Management System’ means a Health and Safety Management System and an Environmental Management System;; Section 5. ‘Material Change’ means a significant change as defined in the relevant Rules. of the ISA; ‘Performance Improvement Plan’ means a plan to address the issues identified by the Authority as may be required by regulation 47; ‘Plan of Work’ is a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation in the Area as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Reportable Event’ means an event that is classified as such under these Regulations or a Sponsorship Agreement, and includes: (a) a notifiable event defined under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) a failure to comply with the fundamental terms and conditions of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, including a failure to achieve, or a breach of, an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome; (c) a determination by the ISA that the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan is inadequate in any material respect following a performance assessment under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) a contravention of, or a failure to comply with, a material term or condition of the Sponsorship Agreement; (e) a material reduction in production under a Plan of Work; (f) any failure, or likely failure in a Management System that could cause or contribute to a major accident or incident; (g) the identification of any new significant health and safety risk or significant Environmental Risk, or a significant change to existing risk calculations; (h) the receipt of a written instruction from an inspector appointed by the ISA; (i) the receipt of a compliance notice from the ISA; (j) a request by the ISA to audit the books of the sponsored entity; (k) the taking of any measures under regulation 35; (l) a failure to comply with a compliance direction or emergency direction under regulations 47 or 48 within the time allowed in the direction; or (m) any event classified by the Authority as a Reportable Event as the Seabed Mineral Activities progress; and ‘Technical Assistance Committee’ means a technical committee, set up by the Authority under the Act; ‘UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules’ means the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law adopted by the United General Assembly on 9 December 2021; (2) Terms used in these regulations that are defined in the Act have the meanings given to them by the Act.; Section 18. Preparation of Sponsorship Certificate and draft Sponsorship. Agreement (1) The Chief Executive Officer shall within 10 days after the Cabinet approves the granting of a Sponsorship Certificate and any draft Sponsorship Agreement under Section 25 of the Act, shall: (a) prepare the Sponsorship Certificate in accordance with Section 22 of the Act for signature by the Minister on behalf of the Republic; (b) prepare the draft Sponsorship Agreement in accordance with this regulation and regulation 24; (c) obtain the Minister’s comments on the terms and conditions of the draft Sponsorship Agreement; and (d) provide the Sponsored Party with the draft Sponsorship Agreement. (2) The Authority shall give the Sponsorship Applicant at least 20 days, or such longer period as the Authority may allow, to make submissions on those terms and conditions before the Authority finalises them. (3) Following finalisation of the terms and conditions of the draft Sponsorship Agreement between the Authority and the applicant, the Minister shall, in accordance with Section 25(1) of the Act, refer the draft agreement to the Cabinet for its approval.; Section 19. Signing of Sponsorship Agreement. (1) Following the Cabinet’s approval of the terms and conditions of the draft Sponsorship Agreement, the agreement shall be signed on behalf of the Republic and the Authority by the Minister. (2) The designated representative shall sign the agreement on behalf of the Sponsored Party.; Section 20. Submission of application to ISA. The Chief Executive Officer shall: (a) pursuant to Section 23 of the Act, cooperate with the Sponsored Party and assist in the submission of an application to the ISA; and (b); Section 21. cooperate with the ISA and provide it with such data and information held. by the Authority to assist the ISA in determining whether the Sponsored Party is qualified applicant under the relevant Rules of the ISA, including the results of the Authority’s assessment of the sponsorship Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act. Material change to ISA application (1) A Sponsored Party shall, pursuant to Section 24 of the Act notify the Chief Executive Officer of any proposed Material Change to an ISA application or new or updated information within 48 hours of becoming aware of such change or information. (2) The notification shall include details of the proposed change or new or updated information including its assessment of any significant impact on the terms of sponsorship or ability to continue to satisfy the Qualification Criteria. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 5 days of the date of receipt of the notification review the information provided by the Sponsored Party under subregulation (2) and provide to the Board his or her comments for the Board’s consideration. (4) The Board shall consider the proposed Material Change or new or updated information, and taking account of the comments of the Chief Executive Officer provide any comments to the Sponsored Party for its consideration pursuant to section 24(2) of the Act.; Section 22. Approved Plan of Work. (1) On any approval of a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation by the ISA, the Sponsored Party shall provide a copy of the approved plan to the Authority, including a summary in table form of any conditions attaching to such approval. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the Sponsored Party with a view to ensuring that the necessary and appropriate procedures and processes, including the recording and reporting of data and information are in place, or will be in place to monitor effectively the implementation of the plan and any related conditions through appropriate Control Measures.; Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 24. Specific conditions of sponsorship. (1) The Authority may pursuant to regulation 14(5) recommend to the Cabinet that specific conditions be included in a Sponsorship Agreement as considered necessary and appropriate to promote compliance with the Act and its objectives, taking into account: (a) the Republic’s obligation to take all necessary and reasonably appropriate measures to secure effective compliance of a Sponsored Party pursuant to article 139(2) of the UNCLOS; (b) the Republic’s obligation to assist the ISA to ensure such compliance pursuant to article 153(3) of the UNCLOS; the monitoring and enforcement capacity of the ISA at the time of the application; and (c) (d) the results and findings from the assessment of the Qualification Criteria. (2) Specific conditions may be included for the purpose of requiring the Sponsored Party to, for example: (a) undertake specific monitoring or reporting on its Seabed Mineral Activities at specified intervals, including information to be supplied to the Authority; (b) taking out a certain category of insurance; (c) undertake specific studies, investigations or analysis; (d) make specific information or records available for audit or verification by the Authority or by an approved expert; (e) align with a specific internationally accepted process standard; (f) provide a Security Deposit pursuant to Section 52 of the Act and regulation 26 to manage any risk and liability exposures; (g) be vicariously liable for any environmental breaches caused by its employees; (h) implement specified measures relating to the health, safety and welfare of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities and not regulated by any other competent authority, body or organisation; (i) implement specified measures which may include specified Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes to deal with the potential risks and effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (j) undertake specific education and awareness programmes in the Republic relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; (k) provide specific reporting on or compliance with the Qualification Criteria prior to the commencement of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (l) pay a specified penalty if the Sponsored Party does not comply with a condition of the Sponsorship Agreement. (3) The Authority shall consider, where applicable, whether the specific conditions recommended under this regulation are reasonably practicable in relation to the matter the condition is intended to address, and compliance with the condition can be monitored effectively by the Authority and the Sponsored Party. (4) The Authority may recommend more stringent conditions than those of the relevant Rules of the ISA pursuant to annex III, article 21(3) of the UNCLOS. (5) In formulating any specific conditions, the Authority may seek advice from relevant Departments or an approved expert.; Section 25. Security Deposit. (1) In determining the requirement for any Security Deposit under Section 52 of the Act, the Authority shall consider the following factors: (a) the nature, stage, scale and likely impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (b) the Sponsored Party’s Environmental Performance record; (c) the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party and its access to financial resources, including the Sponsored Party’s capacity to respond to incidents; (d) the availability of relevant market instruments, such as insurance; (e) the Sponsored Party’s capacity to undertake any post closure monitoring; (f) the technical and economic feasibility of rectifying any damage that may be caused to the marine environment; and (g) the type and quantum of any guarantee, deposit or bond that a Sponsored Party is required to deposit with the ISA for an equivalent purpose. (2) The terms of any Security Deposit shall provide: (a) a date by which the deposit shall be made, which may be before the Seabed Mineral Activities commence; (b) details of the amount and form of security to be given; (c) that the amount of the security is to be reviewed annually and where necessary adjusted; (d) for the terms of forfeiture, repayment or release of all or part of the security; and (e) that the security may be varied, cancelled, or renewed by agreement between the Sponsored Party and the Authority. (3) Any Security Deposit shall be held by the Department responsible for finance in accordance with its policy and procedures, and in the case of cash, held in a secured interest-bearing account with a financial institution with a long-term international credit rating of AA or higher. (4) Any Security Deposit may be provided by way of instalments over a specified period. (5) Where a Sponsored Party is required to lodge a Security Deposit with the Republic prior to the commencement of Seabed Mineral Activities, the Sponsored Party may not commence activities until it has provided the required deposit in accordance with the conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement. (6) The terms of any Security Deposit may require that the deposit, or a portion of it, continues for a specified period after sponsorship is terminated to the extent that the Authority considers it may be required to fulfil any obligations of the Sponsored Party under the Act. (7) The Authority may appoint an independent assessor to advise on the appropriate amount of any Security Deposit under this regulation. (8) The application of this regulation is subject to the Applicable Guideline issued by the Authority. (9) The provision of a Security Deposit does not limit the liability of the Sponsored Party under the Act or an ISA contract.; Section 26. Variation of terms and conditions of sponsorship. (1) Pursuant to Section 25(3) of the Act, the Authority or the Sponsored Party may notify the other at any time to request a variation of a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement where a party considers that the variation is necessary: (a) to ensure consistency with: (i) the Republic’s international legal obligations; (ii) the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (iii) a modified plan of work; (b) to accommodate new or previously unforeseen significant health, safety or Environmental Risks or Environmental Impacts that have been identified in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) to take account of changes in Good Industry Practice, Best Environmental Practices, or Best Available Techniques; or (d) to reflect any change in circumstances or assumptions where information shows that the variation of any terms or conditions is appropriate to deal with such change. (2) A notice under subregulation (1) shall identify the conditions to be reviewed, give reasons for the review and may propose new conditions. (3) The parties shall consult on any variation to the terms and conditions of sponsorship within 30 days following the date of receipt of a notice and work together to amend the Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Prior to making any recommendations to the Minister, the Authority may consult with the ISA or an approved expert on the appropriateness of the variation of any terms or conditions. (5) The Authority shall make recommendations to the Minister for any proposed variation to any terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement for the responsible Minister’s consent and the Cabinet’s approval.; Section 27. Notification of material matters. (1) For the purposes of Section 26(i) of the Act, the Sponsored Party shall notify the Authority in writing within 24 hours after it becomes aware of any new information or data that materially affects affect its ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria, comply with the Plan of Work or ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) The notification shall include details of: (a) the new information or data demonstrating why this may materially affect the circumstances contemplated under subregulation (1); and (b) any corrective actions or measures that the Sponsored Party has taken or will take to remedy any inability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria, comply with the Plan of Work or inability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA.. (3) Following receipt of any notification under subregulation (1), the Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the Sponsored Party as to the nature and circumstances of the Sponsored Party’s inability to comply with or satisfy the circumstances contemplated under subregulation (1) and consider such remedial or corrective measures to return the Sponsored Party to compliance, which may include the issue of a compliance direction by the Authority under regulation 47. (4) A Sponsored Party that, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulation (1), commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to pay a fine of $25,000.; Section 28. Keeping and maintenance of records. (1) A Sponsored Party shall at the Sponsored Party’s registered address establish, keep and maintain copies of complete, accurate, and up to date books, accounts and financial records pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities prepared in accordance with internationally accepted accounting principles, and any other records in such form as may be directed by the Authority or in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) The records shall include copies of relevant production related-records of associates and affiliates conducting all or any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) A Sponsored Party that contravenes subregulation (1) or (2), commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to pay a fine of $25,000.; Section 29. Record keeping requirements applicable to certain information. (1) The records under subregulation (2) shall be kept and maintained: (a) in electronic form or digital form capable of being retrieved; and (b) manually or in case of electronic or digital form, capable of being produced in printed form. (2) A Sponsored Party shall keep and maintain the following records or reports during the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities: (a) the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; (b) the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan; (c) the Health and Safety Plan; (d) records relating to Environmental Performance and the Health and Safety Performance Standards; (e) records of mining discharges into the marine environment; (f) records of calibration and maintenance of monitoring devices used to monitor the Environmental Performance Outcomes; (g) written reports including monitoring, audit and review reports relating to Environmental Performance and the Health and Safety Performance Standards; and other records or reports required under the relevant Rules of the ISA to monitor and assess the performance of a Sponsored Party. (h) (3) A Sponsored Party that contravenes subregulations (1) or (2) commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 30. Making records available. (1) This regulation applies in relation to a document or other record that are required to be established, kept and maintained under regulations 28 and 29. (2) The Sponsored Party shall upon request make a copy of the document or record available to any of the following persons: (a) an Authorised Representative, including an observer under appointed under Section 11(1)(t) of the Act; or (b) an ISA inspector, or other authorised representative of the ISA. (3) The copy of the document or record shall be made available: (a) in the case of an emergency or incident relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, as soon as practicable at any time of the day or night on any day during such emergency or incident; or (b) in any other case, during normal business hours on a working day in the place where the document or record is kept. (4) The copy of the document or record shall be made available at the place where the document or record is kept or another place agreed between the Sponsored Party and the person making the request. (5) The document may be made available at another place by means of electronic transmission. (6) Where the document or record is stored on electronically or digitally, the copy shall be made available in printed form or if the Sponsored Party and the person making the request so agree, in electronic or digital form. (7) A Sponsored Party which, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulations (2), (3), (4) or (6) commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 31. Annual report. (1) A Sponsored Party shall submit an annual report to the Authority within 90 days of the end of each calendar year containing information on its programme of activities for the previous year. (2) For the purposes of preventing duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements, the Authority may accept the submission of the ISA’s annual report by the Sponsored Party prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and deem submission of such report to be complying with subregulation (1). (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the annual report and provide pertinent comments and any recommendations relating to the progress of the Seabed Mineral Activities and possible instances of non-compliance to the Board for its review and consideration. (4) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA on any matter raised by the annual report and cooperate with the ISA to investigate any possible instances of non-compliance under the relevant Rules of the ISA arising from the review of the report. (5) Nothing in this regulation precludes the Authority from requesting more frequent progress reports or further information in respect of the Seabed Mineral Activities under the sponsorship of the Republic.; Section 32. Compliance statement. (1) For the purposes of Section 26(s), a Sponsored Party shall, within 120 days after the end of the financial year provide to the Authority a compliance statement in accordance with the requirements of this regulation and the Applicable Guideline. (2) The reportable matters shall be of such matters within each 12-month period, or any period within the 12-month period where sponsorship is granted during the period, ending on 31 December in each year, unless the Authority determines an alternative specified reporting period or frequency. (3) For the purposes of Section 26(s) of the Act, the compliance statement shall contain the information under Schedule 3 and shall relate to the period between the end of the last reporting period and the date of the report. (4) Where sponsorship is terminated under Section 36 of the Act, a Sponsored Party shall submit a final compliance statement within 60 days after the date of termination. (5) Where sponsorship is being assigned pursuant to Section 40 of the Act, the Sponsored Party shall provide to the Authority a compliance report in conjunction with the application for the Minister's consent to the assignment. (6) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the reports in order to be satisfied that: (a) any instances of non-compliance have been appropriately addressed; (b) the cause or suspected cause of the non-compliance has been identified; and (c) the actions taken to mitigate any adverse effects and prevent recurrence of the non-compliance are reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances. (7) Where the Chief Executive Officer is not satisfied with any statements made in the report relating to the matters contemplated by subregulation (6), he or she may: (a) request further information from the Sponsored Party; or (b) require the holder to submit an amended report. (8) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA on any instances of non-compliance and following such consultation may recommend to the Board that appropriate administrative action be taken under Section 36 of the Act and these Regulations, including the issue of a compliance direction under regulation 47. (9) A Sponsored Party who, without reasonable cause contravenes subregulations (1), (4) and (5) is liable to a penalty of $5,000 for each day during which the non-compliance continues.; Section 33. Notifying Reportable Events. (1) A Sponsored Party, or where applicable through its affiliates or associates shall notify a Reportable Event in accordance with this regulation. (2) The notification: (a) shall be given to the Authority as soon as practicable, and in any case within 24 hours after: (i) the first occurrence of the Reportable Event; or (ii) if the Reportable Event is not detected by the Sponsored Party at the time of the first occurrence, the time the Sponsored Party becomes aware of the event; (b) may be made orally or in writing; (c) shall specify: (i) all material facts and circumstances concerning the Reportable Event; (ii) any action taken to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects of the event; and (iii) whether the event and circumstances concerning the event have been reported to the ISA. (3) Nothing in this regulation shall relieve the Sponsored Party of any notification or reporting obligations to the ISA or the Authority under the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) A Sponsored Party that, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulations (1) and (2) commits a strict liability offence and is liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 34. Written report of Reportable Events. (1) A Sponsored Party shall submit a written report of a Reportable Event in accordance with this regulation. (2) The report: (a) shall be submitted to the Authority as soon as practicable, and in any case within 7 days after the first occurrence or detection of the Reportable Event; and (b) shall specify: (i) all material facts and circumstances concerning the event; (ii) any action taken to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects of the event; and (iii) any action taken, or proposed to be taken, to prevent a similar event. (3) To avoid duplication in regulatory reporting, the Sponsored Party may submit a written report provided to the ISA in respect of the same event that is reportable to the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA provided that such report contains the information set out in subregulation (2)(b). (4) Where the Chief Executive Officer is not reasonably satisfied that a report is sufficient to enable the Authority to determine whether the action taken or proposed to be taken is adequate in the circumstances, the Chief Executive Officer may request the Sponsored Party to modify the report. (5) A request under subregulation (4) shall: (a) be in writing; and (b) identify the reasons the Chief Executive Officer is not reasonably satisfied with the report. (6) A Sponsored Party which, without reasonable excuse breaches this regulation commits a strict liability offence and is liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 35. Duty to manage risk. (1) A Sponsored Party shall take necessary and appropriate measures to manage the risk of hazards and accidents, taking into consideration appropriate risk assessment consistent with the requirements of the relevant Rules of the ISA and Good Industry Practice. (2) Where an activity carried out by a Sponsored Party significantly increases the risk of a major hazard or accident, the Sponsored Party shall take such necessary and appropriate measures, including any adjustment to the Control Measures to ensure that the risk is reduced as low as is reasonably practicable. (3) The measures referred to in subregulation (2) may include, where necessary, suspending the relevant activity until the risk is adequately controlled.; Section 36. Management and control of accidents and hazards. (1) A Sponsored Party, its Affiliates and Associates shall pursue Continual Improvement in their Management Systems, including through specifying the requirements for the audit of such systems and the frequency of such audits. (2) The Authority may request the Sponsored Party at any time to review its Management Systems, or that of its Affiliates or Associates and to provide to the Authority sufficient information to demonstrate that: (a) the Sponsored Party’s Management System is adequate to ensure: (i) that the relevant provisions of the Act, these Regulations and the relevant Rules of the ISA will, in respect of matters within the Sponsored Party’s control, be complied with; and (ii) that the management of arrangements with Affiliates and Associates is satisfactory; (b) the procedures and arrangements described in the Management System documentation which may affect the health and safety of persons or the marine environment are followed; (c) the Sponsored Party has established adequate arrangements for audit and for the making of reports of the audit, including audit of the Management Systems of its Affiliates and Associates; (d) all accidents and hazards with the potential to cause a major accident or incident have been identified; and (e) all major accident and hazard risks have undergone a risk assessment process to determine that their likelihood and consequences assessed, including any health, safety and Environmental Risks and that suitable Control Measures, have been, or will be, taken to control those risks to ensure that the relevant Rules of the ISA and these regulations will be complied with. (3) In this regulation, ‘audit’ means the continual and systematic assessment of the adequacy of the Management System to achieve the purpose referred to in subregulation (2)(a) carried out by a qualified person in accordance with Good Industry Practice. (4) Details of the qualified person carrying out the audit, including name and qualifications shall be submitted together with the information provided under subregulation (2). (5) The demonstration of the matters referred to in subregulation (1)(e) shall include the response effectiveness of the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan in respect of the Seabed Minerals Activities, as well as the adequacy of the Health and Safety Plan. (6) This regulation is to be applied consistently with the relevant Rules of the ISA and with a view to avoiding any duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements.; Section 37. Notifying and responding to incidents. (1) A Sponsored Party shall, on becoming aware of an incident in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities: (a) notify the Authority immediately by telephone, and within 24 hours in writing and provide a summary of the known facts surrounding the incident, including the location and any known or likely effects on the marine environment, human health and safety, marine users or another State’s interest; (b) comply with the requirements of the relevant Rules of the ISA, including to implement immediately, where applicable, the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan; take other necessary and appropriate measures to limit the adverse effects of the incident; (c) (d) undertake promptly, and within any time frame stipulated, any instructions received from the ISA or the Authority; and (e) record the incident in an incidents register in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) On being notified by the Sponsored Party or other person that an incident has occurred, the Chief Executive Officer shall, immediately: (a) notify the Board and the Minister by providing a summary of the facts concerning the incident; (b) consult with the Sponsored Party; and (c) cooperate and consult with the ISA on any recommended action to be taken. (3) A report shall be provided to the Authority within 60 days after the Sponsored Party becomes aware of the occurrence of the incident. (4) The Authority may accept any report provided to the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA relating to an incident reported under subregulation (3). (5) A person who, without reasonable excuse, breaches subregulation (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000. (6) The Authority shall notify the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade if an incident has had, or is reasonably expected to have, substantial effects on persons or things under the jurisdiction of another State.; Section 38. Inquiries into incidents. (1) For the purpose of Section 62 of the Act, the Authority may, in cooperation with the ISA and other concerned organisations or otherwise, initiate an inquiry into any incident with a view of: (a) establishing available facts and findings in respect of the incident; (b) acquiring information to be used for the future management of the effects of the incident; (c) avoiding, minimising and managing the future risk of incidents; (d) forming a view as to whether enforcement action should be taken against the Sponsored Party under the Act or these Regulations. (2) As part of any inquiry into an incident, the Authority shall form a view on: (a) the facts and circumstances of the incident; (b) the actual, likely, or possible causes of and contributing factors to the incident; (c) the extent of any harm to the environment, any person, or any interest arising from the incident; (d) the actions taken in response to the Incident and the effectiveness of those actions taken by any person to mitigate or remedy the harm caused by the Incident; (e) potential future consequences of the incident, and options for preventing or minimising those consequences; (f) options for mitigating the risk of future incidents, whether or not of a similar nature to the Incident that is the subject of the inquiry. (3) After completing an inquiry, the Authority shall: (a) prepare a report setting out its findings, recommendations, if any, arising from the inquiry; views and (b) provide a copy of the report to the Minister and the ISA; (c) make available to the public the final report, including through publication on its website; and (d) consider any action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations. (4) An inquiry shall be conducted as soon as practicable after an incident. (5) The Authority may: (a) conduct the inquiry itself or appoint an approved expert to conduct it and make a report to the Authority; and (b) invite any person contributing to or directly affected by the incident, representatives of the ISA, other relevant organisations and flag States and other persons having knowledge or facts of the incident to present information at the inquiry.; Section 39. Authority to monitor Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) The Authority shall, in cooperation with the ISA monitor the Seabed Mineral Activities of a Sponsored Party, including a Sponsored Party’s environmental monitoring programme to determine whether the activities are compliant with the obligations imposed by the Act, these Regulations, the relevant Rules of the ISA and the terms and conditions of an ISA contract and Sponsorship Agreement. (2) The Authority may engage Approved Experts to monitor, evaluate and analyse such data and information made available to the Authority by a Sponsored Party, including the provision of real-time data as is necessary for the Authority to make any determination under subregulation (1).; Section 41. (a). the relevant qualifications and experience of persons appointed as observers by the Authority; (b) the training, supervision and direction of observers; (c) a code of conduct for observers; (d) the reporting requirements for observers, including the frequency and content of such reporting; and (e) cooperation with ISA inspectors, or other authorised representatives of the ISA. Transfer of observers of the Authority A Sponsored Party shall, to the extent practicable, comply with any reasonable request of the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority to:; Section 42. (a). transfer any duly appointed observer of the Authority to or from any vessel used for the Seabed Mineral Activities, together with any necessary equipment; (b) provide such observers with appropriate accommodation and subsistence and access to communication equipment while on board any vessel; and (c) notify the Chief Executive Officer of proposed vessel schedules in a timely manner to facilitate the transfer of the Authority’s observers and representatives. Observers powers and functions (1) An observer shall, for the purposes of monitoring the Seabed Mineral Activities while onboard a vessel: (a) question any relevant person engaged by the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities on any matter relating to the compliance of the Sponsored Party with the Act, these Regulations and the Sponsorship Agreement; (b) request any relevant person to produce any document that is necessary to monitor the Sponsored Party’s compliance and examine such a document and make a copy of it; (c) examine any equipment that records data and information; and (d) document any activity using any means to do so, including video, audio, photograph, or other form of recording. (2) An observer shall report to the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with the Applicable Guideline and provide a final report to the Chief Executive Officer within 30 days following the completion of his or her duties. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the report, and following any consultation with the Sponsored Party on the report provide to the Board his or her comments and recommendations for the Board’s consideration.; Section 43. Complaints about observers. (1) A Sponsored Party may complain in writing to the Chief Executive Officer where an observer has acted unreasonably in the execution of his or her monitoring duties including a failure to follow instructions and directions relating to the safety of life at sea or unnecessary interference with the operations of the Sponsored Party. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall consider any complaint under subregulation (2) within 5 days of receiving such complaint, and where required take such action as is necessary in response to the complaint including the issue of a letter of reprimand to an observer setting out any corrective action to be taken. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall provide to the Board details of any complaint received under subregulation (1) and any action taken under subregulation (2).; Section 44. Real-time data and monitoring. (1) A Sponsored Party shall, when conducting Seabed Mineral Activities pursuant to the relevant Rules of the ISA and this regulation gather and monitor real-time data using an independent, automatic, and continual monitoring system capable of recording, storing, and transmitting data. (2) To assist the Authority in monitoring compliance of the Sponsored Party, the Sponsored Party shall transmit to the Authority such types of operational and monitoring data required under the relevant Rules of the ISA at the same time such data is transmitted to the ISA under the relevant rules of the ISA, taking into consideration any technical limitations on the transmission of such data in real-time.; Section 46. (b). consult with the Sponsored Party on the results and recommendations of the report; (c) make any recommendations to the Board following such consultation, including any compliance or enforcement action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations; and (d) provide comments to the ISA on the report together with details of any regulatory action taken or to be taken by the Authority. Compliance directions (1) The Authority may by Board resolution issue a compliance direction under these Regulations for the purpose of: (a) securing compliance with a requirement under the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition of a under an ISA contract or a Sponsorship Agreement; or (b) preventing or bringing to an end specified activities that have been determined by the ISA or another authorised investigative process that includes consultation with the Sponsored Party to be contrary to the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition under an ISA contract or a sponsorship agreement. (2) A compliance direction: (a) shall be in the form of a written notice given to the Sponsored Party’s duly designated representative; (b) shall specify the grounds on which it is issued; and (c) may impose any requirement reasonably required for the purpose for which the direction is issued and consistent with the Sponsored Party’s obligations under the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition of an ISA contract or a Sponsorship Agreement including 1 or more of the following that the Sponsored Party: (i) discontinue, or not commence, specified operations indefinitely or for a specified period or until further notice from the Authority; (ii) not carry on specified operations except at specified times or subject to specified conditions; (iii) take specified action or measures within a specified period; or (iv) submit a Performance Improvement Plan for the Authority to consider. (3) The Authority may, by written notice given to the duly designated representative to whom a compliance direction is issued, vary or revoke the direction. (4) The representative to whom a compliance direction relates shall ensure compliance with a direction under this regulation within the time allowed in the direction. (5) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA prior to the issue of a compliance direction under this regulation with a view to avoiding any duplication of compliance and enforcement action, unless the content of the compliance direction relates to a Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Qualification Criteria under the Act, these Regulations or a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 47. Emergency directions. (1) The Authority under the hand of the Chief Executive Officer may issue emergency directions where, based on factual evidence the Chief Executive Officer determines that: (a) (b) authorised Seabed Mineral Activities are being carried out in a manner that results in, or that is reasonably likely to result in: (i) material risk to human life and safety; (ii) serious and unlawful harm to the marine environment; or (iii) a breach of an Environmental Performance Objective Environmental Performance Outcome; and it is urgently necessary to take action under this regulation, the Chief Executive Officer may, by written notice given to the duly authorised representative of the Sponsored Party. (2) Subject to subregulation (3), an emergency direction: (a) shall be in the form of a written notice given to the duly authorised representative of the Sponsored Party; (b) shall specify the grounds on which it is issued; and (c) may impose any requirement reasonably required for the purpose for which the direction is issued including 1 or more of the following: (i) a requirement that the Seabed Mineral Activities, or part thereof are temporarily discontinued, or not to commence a specified activity for a specified period or until further notice from the Chief Executive Officer; (ii) a requirement to take specified action within a specified period; or (iii) a requirement that the Sponsored Party furnish the Chief Executive Officer with a specified report or reports. (3) The Authority under the hand of the Chief Executive Officer may, where the Chief Executive Officer deems that urgent action is required under this regulation, issue an emergency direction imposing requirements under subregulation (2)(c) orally and the Chief Executive Officer shall confirm such orally issued emergency direction within 48 hours by written notice given to the duly authorised representative. (4) Subject to subregulation (5) an emergency direction issued under this regulation shall cease to have effect at the expiration of 3 days after the day on which it is issued. (5) The Board may within the period under subregulation (4), confirm the direction and such direction shall continue to have effect for a period determined by the Board or until revoked by the Board. (6) The Chief Executive Officer shall immediately upon issuing an emergency direction:; Section 48. (a). provide to the ISA a copy of any direction issued under this regulation; or (b) consult with the ISA on any regulatory compliance or enforcement action taken, or to be taken by the ISA in respect of the matters contemplated by subregulation (1) and provide the results of such consultation to the Board for its consideration under subregulation (3). Application for review of direction (1) A Sponsored Party required to comply with a direction under regulations 46 or 47 may request the Authority in writing to review the grounds for the issue of the direction within 48 hours of receipt of the relevant direction, or such other time as the Chief Executive Officer, in consultation with the Sponsored Party may approve. (2) A Sponsored Party shall include in its request such information it considers necessary for the Authority to take into consideration in reviewing the grounds for the issue of a direction. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 5 days of receipt of the request, review such request in consultation with the Sponsored Party and where necessary the ISA, and issue his or her recommendation to the Board. (4) Subject to subregulation (5), an application for review of a direction shall not suspend operation of the direction. (5) On review of a direction, the Authority may: (a) confirm the direction with or without modification; or (b) revoke the direction. (6) Any review under subregulation (3), shall consider any regulatory compliance or enforcement action to be taken by the ISA in respect of the same matter to which the direction relates. (7) The Authority may determine that an application for review of a direction is suspended upon receipt of an application for review under subregulation (1).; Section 49. Non-compliance with directions. (1) A Sponsored Party which does not comply with a direction under regulations 46 or 47 is liable to pay a penalty not exceeding $1,000,000. (2) It is a defence for a Sponsored Party subject to the payment of a penalty under subregulation (1) that:; Section 50. (a). the Sponsored Party took all reasonable steps within its control to ensure that the required action would be complied with in time; or (b) compliance with the direction would cause the Sponsored Party to breach or is inconsistent with other obligations, including obligations under a corresponding ISA contract and the relevant Rules of the ISA. Whistle-blowing procedures (1) The Authority shall, in cooperation with the ISA, the Sponsored Party and relevant stakeholders establish a whistle-blowing policy and mechanism for its own staff and personnel of a Sponsored Party, its Affiliates and Associates to raise genuine concerns in respect of the activities or practices of the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates, or the Authority in the implementation of the Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and other applicable enactments. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall, in cooperation with the Sponsored Party and the ISA where appropriate, promptly investigate, verify and deal with any credible report received relating to any allegation of non-compliance or potential non-compliance with the Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and other applicable enactments by the Sponsored Party, its Associates and Affiliates or by the staff of the Authority. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall prepare a report of findings and recommendations within 10 days of completing such investigation for the Board’s consideration. (4) The Board shall within 30 days following the date of receipt of the report: (5) (6) (7) (a) consider any regulatory or other action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations; (b) cooperate, through the Chief Executive Officer with the ISA on any matter relating to potential non-compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (c) provide to the Minister details of any matters relating to noncompliance by the staff of the Authority for his or her consideration. Where the Board decides to take any action under subregulation (4), prior to taking such action: (a) the Board shall give notice in writing to the Sponsored Party or person or persons against whom the Board proposes to take action, together with a copy of the Chief Executive Officer’s report of findings and recommendations to the Board; (b) within 30 days following the date of receipt of any notice under subregulation (5)(a), the person or persons against whom the Board has decided to take action may appeal the Board’s decision in writing to the Board. Within 14 days following the date of receipt of any appeal under subregulation (5)(b), the Board shall: (a) accept the appeal and withdraw its decision to take any action under subregulation (4); or (b) reject the appeal and provide reasons for its rejection to the relevant person or persons, and proceed to take necessary steps to proceed with any action under subregulation (4). In the absence of any appeal under subregulation (5), the Board shall confirm its decision to take any action under subregulation (4).; Section 51. Application for approval to assign rights and obligations under an ISA. contract (1) For the purposes of Section 40(4) of the Act, if the intended assignee is under Nauru’s effective control, the Sponsored Party and intended assignee shall apply jointly in writing to the Authority for the issue of a new Sponsorship Certificate to such assignee, being a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or a Nauruan public enterprise. (2) The application shall be accompanied by: (a) a certified copy of the relevant transfer agreement or instrument concluded or to be concluded between the sponsored party and the intended assignee; (b) a copy of the application for approval to transfer rights and obligations under an ISA contract made to the ISA; (c) a statement of the reasons for the assignment and details of the activities to be conducted by the intended assignee for the remaining term of ISA contract; (d) a statement of the intended assignee’s ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act supported by the relevant information prescribed in Schedule 1 to these Regulations; (e) an undertaking that the intended assignee assumes all of the obligations of the transferor; (f) a final compliance statement under regulation 32(5); and (g) the applicable fee. (3) The application may include a statement of any matter that the Sponsored Party and intended assignee requests the Authority, the Minister and the Cabinet to consider in deciding whether to consent and approve to the assignment. (4) Where the Authority requests further information pursuant to Section 40(8)(c) of the Act, the Sponsored Party or intended assignee shall, within 10 days after receiving such request provide the information requested.; Section 53. Notification of change of ownership, constitution or control of a. Sponsored Party (1) For the purposes of Section 41(2) of the Act a notification by the Sponsored Party shall: (a) be given as soon as practicable before the change and where it is not practicable to notify before the change, such change shall be notified no later than 20 days after the effective date of the significant change; (b) be accompanied by: (c) (i) a copy of any agreement or other relevant document or instrument that specifies the change; (ii) full particulars of the new owners or controllers, including their beneficial owners; include a declaration: (i) from the Sponsored Party that it continues to meet the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act; and (ii) in the case of the change of control of a guarantor of any Security Deposit provided under Section 52 of the Act or any performance guarantee or bond provided under the relevant Rules of the ISA, a statement from the guarantor that it has the financial capability to meet its obligations under any such deposit, guarantee or bond. (2) Where, pursuant to Section 41(4) of the Act, the Authority determines that one or more Qualification Criteria is not met in a material particular, the Authority shall issue a compliance direction under regulation 46 requiring the Sponsored Party to rectify any deficiency within 30 days or such longer period as the Authority considers reasonable in the circumstances.; Section 54. Method for determining applicable fees. (1) The Board shall, when determining applicable fees under the Act and these Regulations, take all reasonable steps to recover from an applicant or Sponsored Party the actual, reasonable and relevant costs incurred by the Authority in relation to the processing of an application for sponsorship under the Act and these Regulations, as well as the ongoing administration and supervision of the sponsorship granted under the Act and these Regulations. (2) Where the Authority considers that it is appropriate to do so, it may: (a) require the applicant to make a reasonable advance payment for the relevant costs that it is entitled to recover; (b) determine the balance of the amount payable after carrying out the work necessary to process an application or provide assistance in accordance with the Regulations; and (c) require the applicant to pay the balance that it is entitled to recover prior to the notification of the decision of an application. (3) Prior to incurring any direct costs, including the costs of approved experts, the Authority shall seek the prior agreement of the applicant or Sponsored Party to such costs. (4) In determining applicable fees under this regulation, the Authority shall take account of any annual administration fee payable by a Sponsored Party under Section 46 of the Act to ensure there is no duplication of costs payable under this regulation. (5) For the purpose of this regulation, ‘relevant costs’ means administrative and other expenses which the Authority reasonably incur under the Act and these Regulations relating to the following functions and services, including: (a) providing assistance to an applicant in the preparation of an application to the ISA; (b) receiving, processing or deciding an application for sponsorship; (c) administering and supervising a sponsorship arrangement; (d) gathering and processing information required under these Regulations or the conditions of Sponsorship Agreement; (e) reviewing the conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement; and (f) contracting approved experts.; Section 55. Standards and guideline documents. (1) The Minister may, based on the recommendations of the Authority, approve standards relating to: (a) the protection of the marine environment, including environmental assessment, management and monitoring of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) the protection of the health and safety and rights of persons engaged directly in exploration or exploitation operations. (2) Standards approved under subregulation (1) shall be consistent with or supplement existing international law, including the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Minister may approve standards more stringent than those contained in the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) Standards are legally binding on a Sponsored Party. (5) The Authority may also, from time to time, issue guidelines of a technical or administrative nature to help support the implementation of the Act, these Regulations, the standards and the terms and conditions under a Sponsorship Agreement. (6) Prior to issuing a standard or guideline, the Authority shall: (a) notify persons, including a Sponsored Party who are likely to be affected by the standard or guideline; (b) provide those persons a reasonable opportunity to comment on the content of the proposed standard or guideline; (c) consult with approved experts on the content of the proposed standard or guideline depending on the technical content of the document; and (d) consider the relevant Rules of the ISA, including Applicable Standards, Applicable Guidelines or recommendations issued by the ISA or other competent organisations as representing internationally agreed standards and recommended practices and procedures.; Section 56. Change in Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) A Sponsored Party may modify its Seabed Mineral Activities under a Plan of Work in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the Sponsored Party proposes to modify a Plan of Work, and the proposed modification constitutes a Material Change under the relevant Rules of the ISA or these Regulations, the Sponsored Party shall submit details of the proposed modification for the Authority’s consideration at the same time it notifies the ISA of the same proposed modification. (3) A submission under subregulation (2) shall: (a) specify the change that is being proposed; (b) set out any changes that would apply if the application for the change is to be approved by the ISA in relation to: (i) the health, safety and Environmental Risks and effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities, and any measures that are used, or to be used, to manage, limit or remedy those risks and effects; (ii) the Environmental Performance Environmental Performance Outcomes; (iii) the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement, including any impact on the recovery level of the seabed minerals; Objectives and (c) detail any consultation undertaken or proposed to be undertaken on the proposed modification under the relevant Rules of the ISA; and (d) be accompanied by a statement demonstrating that the change will not adversely affect the ability of the Sponsored Party to comply with the requirements of the Act, these Regulations and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) The Chief Executive Officer may, within 10 days after receiving details of the proposed modification request further information from the Sponsored Party or consult with the ISA on any matter relating to the modification, and shall submit a report to the Board including any recommendations relating to the modification. (5) The Board may, within 20 days after receiving the Chief Executive Officer’s review provide comments, through the Chief Executive Officer to the Sponsored Party on any proposed modification including as they may relate to the terms and conditions of sponsorship. (6) The Sponsored Party shall consider the Authority’s comments in relation to the proposed modification.; Section 57. Periodic Review of Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) Pursuant to Section 11(1)(l) of the Act, the Sponsored Party and the Authority shall undertake a joint annual review of the Seabed Mineral Activities, at intervals not exceeding 5-years from the date of the sponsorship certificate. (2) In order to avoid any unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements, the timing of such reviews shall, where practicable, coincide with the review of a Plan of Work by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA and where the Authority is invited to participate in such ISA reviews. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Authority may request a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Nothing in this regulation shall preclude the Authority or the Sponsored Party from making a request to initiate a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (5) The Authority may invite representatives from the ISA, any relevant Ministry, or Approved Experts to participate in the joint review. (6) A review under this regulation will be conducted in accordance with the Applicable Guideline.; Section 58. Information to be submitted on termination of sponsorship or cessation. of Seabed Mineral Activities Upon termination of a Sponsorship Certificate or a cessation of Seabed Mineral Activities a Sponsored Party shall submit the following information to the Authority: (a) a statement, accompanied by supporting evidence: (i) that where applicable, the Closure Plan has been or will be implemented effectively; (ii) that significant residual Environmental Risks and effects have been identified and will be monitored and managed in accordance with the Closure Plan; (iii) that all remediation, restoration rehabilitation required to be undertaken under the Closure Plan has been completed or will be put in place; (b) details of the expected costs to implement the closure requirements under paragraph (a); (c) the final compliance statement, final seabed minerals recovery payment report and any other technical reports that may be requested by the Authority or required under the Applicable Guideline; (d) the following declarations, in the form of a statutory declaration: (i) a declaration that the Seabed Mineral Activities have ceased; (ii) a declaration that there are no outstanding liabilities under the Act or these Regulations; (iii) a declaration that all fees, royalties, or penalties under the Act or these Regulations have been paid; (iv) a declaration that outlines any legal proceedings in respect of the Seabed Mineral Activities that involve the Sponsored Party as a party to those proceedings; and (v) a declaration that demonstrates that the Sponsored Party has the financial resources to meet the expected costs to implement the requirements of the Closure Plan, where applicable.; Section 59. Protection of confidential information. (1) The Authority through the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of information received by the Authority pursuant to Section 33 of the Act. (2) The Authority shall establish and maintain procedures governing the classification and handling of information by the Board and employees of the Authority, Approved Experts or consultants engaged by the Authority, and any person performing a function or exercising a power under the Act. (3) The procedures shall include: (a) the storage and maintenance of information in secure facilities, the development of security procedures to prevent unauthorised access to or removal of information and the development of procedures to ensure the safe and secure dissemination of information; (b) the development and maintenance of a classification, log, and inventory system of all written information received, including its type and source and the routing from the time of receipt until final disposition; and (c) the training of persons who have access to information. (4) A person who is authorised under the Act and these Regulations to access information shall not disclose such information except as permitted under the Act and these Regulations. (5) The Authority shall require any person who is authorised to access information to make a written declaration witnessed by the Chief Executive Officer to the effect that the person authorised to access the information: (a) acknowledges their legal obligation under Section 33 of the Act and these Regulations with respect to the non-disclosure of information; (b) agrees to comply with the applicable procedures established to ensure the confidentiality of such information; and (c) agrees to use the data for the purpose for which it was disclosed or, if no purpose was stated, for the effective administration of the Act and these Regulations and to ensure the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities consistent with enactments. (6) The Board and staff of the Authority shall protect the confidentiality of information and shall not disclose or use, even after the termination of their functions with the Authority, any: (a) trade secret, or other commercially sensitive information including technical or proprietary information regarding equipment, process or innovations transferred to the Authority; or (b) other information coming to their knowledge by reason of their connection with the Authority. (7) A person who contravenes subregulations (4) or (6), commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding $50,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 5 years, or both.; Section 60. Information disclosure. (1) Subject to regulation 59, for the purposes of Section 33(2)(b) of the Act, the Authority may disclose information: (a) to protect the marine environment, other marine users or health and safety, including in connection with an incident; or (b) where it is necessary for the formulation by the Authority of policies, regulations, guidelines, and procedures concerning the protection of the marine environment and of human health and safety. (2) Any person that receives confidential information provided under the Act or these Regulations shall not disclose the information to any other person. (3) Any person, including an applicant or Sponsored Party submitting information to the Authority may specify that information is confidential information under the Act and may not be publicly disclosed and provide the Authority with the details of the basis for such a specification. (4) Where any information submitted to the Authority is specified as confidential information, the Chief Executive Officer shall review the basis for the specification, taking into consideration any Applicable Guideline. (5) Where the Chief Executive Officer objects to a specification of information as confidential, the Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days after receiving the information, consult with the person that submitted the information on: (a) the nature of the information; and (b) whether the information constitutes confidential information pursuant to the Act, taking into consideration any Applicable Guideline.; Section 61. Disputes. (1) Pursuant to Section 56 of the Act, if a dispute between the Republic and a Sponsored Party arises under the Act, either the Republic or the Sponsored Party may give to the other disputing Party a notice of dispute in writing adequately identifying the matters and the subject of the dispute together with detailed particulars of the dispute. (2) Within 20 days of service of a notice of dispute, the parties shall make best efforts to meet at least once, to attempt to resolve the dispute. (3) After 20 days of service of a notice of dispute, if the dispute is not resolved, the Parties shall make best efforts to meet and use their best endeavours, acting in good faith, to resolve the dispute in whole or in part. (4) Where the dispute is resolved at a meeting of the parties, then any such resolution shall be reduced to writing and be contractually binding on the parties. (5) The Republic shall submit to arbitration in accordance with this regulation any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Act, that has not been resolved. (6) Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to the Act, that has not been resolved shall be settled by arbitration in accordance with the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules as at presently in force, unless the parties otherwise agree on governing rules of procedure for arbitration. (7) The appointing authority shall be the International Chamber of Commerce acting in accordance with the UNCITRAL Rules for Arbitration. (8) The number of arbitrators shall be 3. (9) The seat of the arbitration shall be Singapore. (10) The language to be used in the arbitral proceeding shall be English. (11) The governing law shall be the laws of Singapore and applicable international law principles and rules regarding the protection of foreign investors to the extent such rules do not contradict the provisions of the Act or would reduce the rights of a Sponsored Party under the Act. (12) Notwithstanding anything in this regulation: (a) nothing shall prejudice the right of a party to seek urgent injunctive, interrogatory or declaratory relief from a court of competent jurisdiction; and (b) each party shall continue to perform its obligations under the Act.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 3. Parts. This Act is divided into Parts as follows:; Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Scope of this Act. (1) The objectives of this Act are: (a) to establish a legal framework for the sponsorship, and for the effective control, by Nauru of contractors to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (b) to provide that Seabed Mineral Activities under Nauru’s sponsorship in the Area must be carried out under Nauru’s effective control in accordance with best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including Nauru’s responsibilities under the UNCLOS and specifically Nauru’s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (c) to promote transparency in decision making on matters concerning Nauru’s management of Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) to provide a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory environment for investors in Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) to secure optimum benefits, long term-economic growth and sustainable development for Nauru from the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; (f) to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations. (2) In order to achieve its objectives, this Act inter alia: (a) creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Authority to licence, monitor and manage Nauru’s involvement with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) establishes a system for Sponsorship Applications, and the grant of Sponsorships Certificates under which Sponsored Parties will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (c) provides for Nauru to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities, and for a ring-fenced Seabed Minerals Fund for the responsible long-term management of any funds raised by Nauru from Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) This Act is made on the basis that the Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity will be developed in an appropriate and timely manner for the purpose of securing that Seabed Mineral Activities will comply with relevant standards and obligations of international law.; Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 10. Objectives of the Authority. The Authority must: (a) provide a stable, transparent, predictable and accountable regime within Nauru for the sponsorship and supervision of Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) maintain effective control of Seabed Mineral Activities undertaken under this Act and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; (c) ensure compliance by Sponsored Parties or any sub-contractors engaged by the State or Sponsored Parties in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities with relevant rules and internationally agreed standards; (d) maximise the economic and development benefits from Seabed Mineral Activities for Nauru and its people; (e) in its decision-making, take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under section 17 of this Act or from Cabinet; and (f) act in a way that is compatible with principles of best regulatory practice, including that regulatory activities should be proportionate, accountable, consistent, transparent and targeted only at cases where needed.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Nauruan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to applications, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (c) conduct due diligence enquiries into Sponsorship Applicants or Sponsored Parties; (d) receive and evaluate Sponsorship Applications; (e) recommend to Cabinet whether Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted or not, and if permitted, on what terms; (f) if approved by Cabinet, prepare and issue Certificates of Sponsorship for successful Sponsorship Applicants; (g) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract; (h) maintain Nauru’s and its Sponsored Parties’ understanding of and compliance with international laws, standards and rules relevant to Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (j) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for Nauru to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (k) require and review relevant reports and information, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (l) with Cabinet approval, establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by Nauru to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities, and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (m) insofar as they are not prescribed by law, negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (n) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of Nauru’s Seabed Mineral Activities including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, technical matters and the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, including from experts outside of the country. (2) The Cabinet may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 13. Delegation of powers. (1) The Authority may, from time to time, in writing, delegate its powers and functions under this Act to any person, committee or working group. (2) A delegation may be made subject to such terms and conditions as the Authority thinks fit, and may be made either generally or in relation to particular circumstances. (3) Any person, committee or working group purporting to exercise any power of the Authority by virtue of a delegation under this section must, when required to do so, produce evidence of such delegation to exercise the power. (4) Any person in breach of subsection (3) commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $5,000 or imprisonment for 2 years or both.; Section 16. Disclosure of interest. (1) Any member of the Authority who has direct or indirect interest, whether personal or pecuniary in a matter under discussion by the Authority, must disclose to the Authority the fact and nature of his or her interest. (2) A disclosure under subsection (1) must be recorded in the minutes of the meeting of the Authority. (3) After disclosure under subsection (1) the member in question shall not participate in nor be present during any discussion, deliberation or decision of the Authority regarding that particular matter in which the member has an interest. (4) A member who fails to disclose his or her interest as required by subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment for 4 years or both.; Section 22. Content of a sponsorship application. A Sponsorship Application must be made in writing to the Authority and must: (a) provide evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; and (b) include: (i) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) written undertakings by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (A) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (B) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (C) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship by Nauru; (c) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) an indication of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed: (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease, bond or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (f) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from Nauru; (g) a capacity building programme for the training of citizens of Nauru; (h) the application fee required under this Act; (i) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA and international law; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (j) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 25. Terms of the Sponsorship Certificate. A Sponsorship Certificate, signed by the head of the Authority shall be issued to a Sponsored Party in a form necessary to satisfy the Rules of the ISA, and will contain: (a) the name of the Sponsored Party; (b) a statement that the Sponsored Party is: (i) a national of Nauru; or (ii) subject to the effective control of Nauru or its nationals; (c) a statement by the State that it sponsors the Sponsored Party; (d) the date of deposit by the State of its instrument of ratification of, or accession or succession to, the UNCLOS; (e) a declaration that the State assumes responsibility in accordance with Article 139, Article 153 (4) and Annex III, Article 4 (4) of the UNCLOS; (f) the date at which the sponsorship commences; (g) a statement that the Sponsorship Certificate shall remain in force for the duration of any ISA contract awarded to the Sponsored Party under the State’s sponsorship, unless otherwise terminated in accordance with this Act; and (h) any other content reasonably required by the ISA or that the Authority considers fit to include.; Section 26. Application by Sponsored Party to ISA. (1) A Sponsored Party may, on the basis of the Sponsorship Application submit an application to the ISA for a contract for Exploration or Exploitation under Nauru’s sponsorship. (2) The Authority will cooperate with the Sponsored Party to facilitate the preparation, submission and support of the application to the ISA. (3) The costs of presenting that application to the ISA shall be met by the Sponsored Party, including any costs reasonably incurred by Nauru in taking actions either requested by the Sponsored Party or deemed necessary by Nauru under the Rules of the ISA, to support the application before the ISA.; Section 27. Sponsorship Agreements. The Authority, with Cabinet’s approval, may enter into written agreements with the Sponsored Party at any time to establish additional terms and conditions as to the sponsorship arrangement, provided: (a) the Authority has consulted as provided under section 17 of this Act, before making any recommendation to Cabinet to enter into such an agreement; and (b) the terms of such an agreement do not or are not likely to lead to a contravention by Nauru or the Sponsored Party of the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA or this Act.; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.; Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the Rules of the ISA and shall be liable for the actual amount of any compensation, damage or penalties arising out of its failure so to comply, or out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) By operation of this section, Nauru shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 30. State responsibilities. Where Nauru is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, Nauru via the Authority will: (a) seek to ensure that its conduct in relation to the ISA, the Area and Seabed Mineral Activities adheres to the requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (b) take all appropriate means to exercise its effective control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the State, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (c) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (d) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (e) promote the application of the Precautionary Principle and best environmental practice.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power to make such examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as are necessary to meet responsibilities under international law, which may include the: its (a) sending of an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities and vessel or premises of the Sponsored Party; and (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, from time to time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection 1(a) shall take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels. (3) Where an inspection is carried out in accordance with subsection 1(b), the Authority may direct any person to furnish within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to any Sponsorship Certificate or Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person or party who fails to comply with a direction issued under this section commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $100,000 or imprisonment for 10 years or both.; Section 32. Administrative Action. (1) In the event of the Authority determining that a Sponsored Party has materially breached, or in the Authority’s reasonable opinion is at serious risk of materially breaching the Rules of the ISA, the Authority may: (a) issue written warnings in relation to possible action the Authority may take in the event of future material breaches; (b) enter into a written agreement for the Sponsored Party to undertake a programme of remedial action and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (c) issue a written notice requiring the Sponsored Party to take specified action, or not take specified action, aimed to stop, remedy or mitigate the risk of occurrence or re-occurrence of material breach; (d) in the case of actual material breach: (i) impose upon the Sponsored Party monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $100,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm; (ii) commence a process under section 39 of this Act to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate. (2) Action taken under subsection (1) must be commensurate with the gravity, frequency and other circumstances of the material or reasonably anticipated breach, including the Sponsored Party’s previous conduct under Nauru’s Sponsorship.; Section 33. Records. (1) The Authority must retain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issues, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority must ensure that all such records are held with appropriate confidentiality, and will not disclose commercially sensitive information unless agreed otherwise with the Sponsored Party.; Section 35. Termination. A Sponsorship Certificate is terminated if, pursuant to this Act: (a) the Sponsored Party’s contract with the ISA expires, is surrendered or is terminated; or (b) if is surrendered by the Sponsored Party in accordance with section 37 of this Act; or (c) it is revoked by the Authority in accordance with section 39 of this Act; and upon termination all rights granted by Nauru shall cease.; Section 36. Ongoing liability after termination. Despite the termination of a Sponsorship Certificate, a Sponsored Party shall remain: (a) subject to any ongoing obligations with respect to Seabed Mineral Activities that occurred prior to termination, including requirements to submit reports and to make payments to the Authority or the ISA; and (b) responsible in accordance with this Act for any damage from its wrongful acts or otherwise arising from Seabed Mineral Activities carried out prior to termination.; Section 37. Surrender of sponsorship. A Sponsored Party may at any time surrender a Sponsorship Certificate without penalty by giving to the Authority not less than three months’ previous notice in writing to that effect.; Section 38. Renewal of sponsorship. (1) With the approval of Cabinet, a Sponsorship Certificate may be renewed by the Authority for successive periods of up to five years each, provided an application for renewal is received from the Sponsored Party by the Authority at least nine months before the expiry of any initial term. (2) The Authority will, within three months of the receipt of the application for renewal, inform the Sponsored Party of whether the renewal has been granted or refused and until that decision is communicated, the Sponsorship Certificate shall be deemed to continue in force.; Section 39. Variation, suspension and revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate. (1) The Authority may vary, suspend or revoke any Sponsorship Certificate: (a) where any of the Sponsorship Qualification criteria ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under section 45 is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to: (i) prevent serious risk to: (A) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (B) the Marine Environment; or (ii) avoid conflict with any obligation of Nauru arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for Nauru; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Sponsored Party; (e) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of the Sponsored Party, or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (f) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding five years from the date of signing the contract with the ISA; (g) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or Regulations or Orders made under this Act, or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party; and such breach cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party, or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (h) where, following at least two written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party in accordance with this Act, any payment or deposit required owing under this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; (i) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority. (2) Before making a decision under this section of the Act, the Authority shall: (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 30 days’ written notice of the Authority’s intention to make the decision, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice, or a copy of the notice has been given to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe; if there are any objections; (b) give a copy of the notice to any other person as the Authority thinks fit; (c) take into account any submissions made in accordance with the notice; and (d) where the decision is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, give the Sponsored Party no fewer than six months’ notice before that revocation takes place.; Section 40. Payments by Sponsored Parties. (1) A Sponsorship Applicant must pay to the Authority a non-refundable Sponsorship Application fee of US$15,000 upon the submission of a Sponsorship Application. (2) Subject to subsection (3), the holder of a Sponsorship Certificate must pay to the Authority an annual administration fee of US$20,000: (a) within six months from the date of issue of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (b) every year after that, on the anniversary each of the date of the issue of the Sponsorship Certificate. (3) During the fifth year of the Sponsorship Certificate term, the Authority may review the amount of the administration fee required each year for the remainder of the term of the Sponsorship Certificate, and may reasonably increase the amount where this is required to cover the actual costs to Nauru of administering and supervising the sponsorship. (4) A Sponsored Party holding an ISA contract for Exploitation under Nauru’s sponsorship must pay to the Authority such sums by way of a Seabed Mineral recovery payment as and when it is agreed and specified in a written agreement made under section 27, prior to the commencement of Exploitation by the Sponsored Party. (5) The recovery payment amount in subsection (4) must: (a) take into account the set-up, Exploration and Exploitation costs incurred by the Sponsored Party; and (b) be based on the percentage of the latest market value of the metal content contained in the Seabed Minerals to be extracted by the Sponsored Party through the Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 43. Financial payments to the ISA. A Sponsored Party will be responsible to make prompt and full payment of any sums due to the ISA, under the Rules of the ISA.; Section 44. Recovery of payments owed by Sponsored Parties. A sum of money payable pursuant to section 40 is a debt to the State, and may be recovered in the Supreme Court and: (a) in any such proceedings a certificate of the Authority certifying that a specified sum of money is payable, shall be received as evidence of that fact; (b) any debt of the Sponsored Party may at the court’s discretion be recovered from any security deposited by the same Sponsored Party under section 45; and (c) interest on the amount outstanding may additionally be charged at a prescribed or otherwise reasonable rate.; Section 45. Security. (1) The Authority may after an Exploitation contract has been granted by the ISA to the Sponsored Party, and prior to Exploitation commencing, require a Sponsored Party to deposit security as a guarantee of performance of its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The form and value of any such security required, and the terms upon which it will be held, will be specified in a written agreement made under section 27, and will take into account the type and quantum of any security that the Sponsored Party is also required to deposit with the ISA. (3) Security deposited in accordance with this section may be used by the Authority to take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Sponsored Party fails to fulfil under this Act, or to rectify any damage or loss caused as a result of such failure.; Section 47. Inquiries into Incidents. (1) Where an Incident occurs in respect to Seabed Mineral Activities under the Sponsorship of Nauru, the Sponsored Party shall inform the ISA and copy all information provided to the ISA to the Authority. (2) The Authority may hold or may commission inquiries into Incidents.; Section 50. Interference with Seabed Mineral Activities or the Authority. (1) Unless authorised under this Act, Rules or Regulations, any third party commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $100,000 or imprisonment for 10 years or both, if that third party interferes with: (a) Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) the Authority or its representative in the performance of duties under this Act, or incites another person to so behave. (2) For the purposes of subsection (1), ‘interfere’ means wilful sabotage of Seabed Mineral Activities, or violence against or similar physical interferences with any representative of the Authority or person conducting Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 51. Public service employees prohibited from Seabed Mineral rights. (1) Unless any right or interest of an employee of the Republic has been approved and declared by Cabinet, no public service employee shall: (a) directly or indirectly acquire or retain any personal share-holding in a body corporate carrying on Seabed Mineral Activities under Nauru’s Sponsorship; or (b) act, directly or indirectly, to personally acquire any right or interest in any Sponsored Party’s contract for Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any document or transaction purporting to confer any right or interest on any such public officer who has acted in breach of subsection (1) shall be null and void. (3) Any public service employee in breach of subsection (1) shall be liable upon conviction to a fine of not less than $5,000 or to imprisonment for 5 years or both.; Section 53. Notice. Any application, request, notice, warning, report, or direction made or given under this Act shall be made in writing by the head of the Authority or the designated representative of the Sponsored Party, as the case may be, and shall be deemed served the day after delivery, if delivered by hand, facsimile or email to the Authority or to the designated representative.; Section 54. Disputes. (1) Any dispute arising between Nauru and another State in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities shall be resolved pursuant to the provisions of the UNCLOS. (2) Any dispute between Nauru and the Sponsored Party arising in connection with the administration of this Act shall be dealt with by: (a) the parties attempting to reach settlement by mutual agreement or mediation, and in the event this is not successful then; (b) by referral to arbitration in accordance with the Courts Act 1972; (c) an application submitted to the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea for any case expressly provided for in Part XI of the UNCLOS.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 3. Objectives of the Act. The objectives of this Act are to: (a) enable the implementation of the Republic’s international obligations as a Sponsoring State under the UNCLOS; (b) establish the Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority, a statutory body to carry out the Republic’s obligations to the ISA and as a Sponsoring State; (c) provide for a legal and administrative framework for a sponsorship arrangement to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Contract Area and to assist the ISA in exercising control over such Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) provide a legal and administrative framework to establish the relationship between the Republic and Sponsored Party and for the Republic to have Effective Control over the Sponsored Party; (e) provide for the Republic to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities and responsibility for the long-term management of ring-fenced Seabed Minerals Fund received by the Republic from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) provide a system for Sponsorship Applications, and the grant of Sponsorships Certificates under which Sponsored Parties will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (g) provide for a Sponsored Party to carry out Seabed Mineral Activities under the Republic’s Effective Control in conformity with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA and other applicable requirements of international law and specifically the Republic’s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (h) promote transparency in decision making on matters concerning the Republic’s management of Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) provide a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory environment for investors in Seabed Mineral Activities; s3 (j) secure optimum financial and other benefits, long term-economic growth and sustainable development for the Republic from its participation in Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations; and (k) ensure the availability of recourse for prompt and adequate compensation in respect of unlawful damage caused by Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 15. Requirements of the Sponsorship Application. A Sponsorship Application under Section 14(1) shall comply with the following requirements: (a) provide a duly completed application form; (b) provide documentary evidence to demonstrate that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; (c) provide a copy of the application for the approval of a plan of work to obtain a corresponding contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) provide a written undertaking to the Republic by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) together with its relevant Associates and Affiliates shall fully comply with the obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warrants that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship of the Republic; (e) provide a written report or any other form of record containing the studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities is intended to be conducted; (f) provide a written report or any other form of report conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (g) provide details of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed insurance, contingency funding or other methods proposed to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an incident; (h) provide the name, address and email and telephone contact or any other details of any Affiliate or Associate and a list of key personnel required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities and an indication if any of these are to be recruited from the Republic; (i) where applicable, provide a projection based on the current project details of the Seabed Mineral recovery payment and other amounts payable to the Republic; (j) provide a proposal for capacity building programme for the training of citizens of the Republic; (k) the requirements of this Act and any prescribed requirements; (l) provide a statement as to whether the Sponsored Applicant, its Associates, Affiliates or any of their directors and officers has previously been found on credible evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities; (ii) breached the relevant Rules of the ISA, any written law or applicable international law; (iii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in the Republic or another jurisdiction; or (iv) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; and (m) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 18. Recommendation to the Cabinet. (1) The Authority having considered and determined a sponsorship application shall only recommend to the Cabinet, the issuance of a Sponsorship Certificate, where it is satisfied that: (a) the Sponsorship Application complies with the requirements of this Act and the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) the undertaking required by Section 15(d) has been given; (c) the Qualification Criteria are met; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) will not result in irreparable harm to any community, cultural practice or industry in the Republic; (ii) would be generally in the national interest, taking into account the potential for capacity-building, local employment and the long-term benefit to the Republic; and (iii) are consistent with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the ISA has not completed the elaboration or adoption of any Rules of the ISA applicable to the Sponsored Application or Sponsorship Applicant, the Authority shall consider: (a) any draft or provisionally adopted relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) applicable provisions contained in the UNCLOS on the basis of the norms contained in the UNCLOS; and (c) The terms and principles contained in the 1994 Agreement, when reviewing such application for the purposes of making a recommendation to the Cabinet.; Section 22. Sponsorship Certificate. (1) A triplicate copy of the prescribed Sponsorship Certificate shall be issued under the hand of the Minister. (2) The Authority shall provide a triplicate copy of the Certificate issued under subsection (1) to a Sponsored Party.; Section 23. Application by Sponsored Party to ISA. (1) A Sponsored Party may, on the basis of the Sponsorship Application and Sponsorship Certificate, submit an application to the ISA for a contract for Exploration or Exploitation under the Republic’s sponsorship. (2) The Authority shall assist the Sponsored Party with the preparation and submission of the application to the ISA. (3) The costs of presenting that application to the ISA shall be met by the Sponsored Party, including any costs reasonably incurred by the Republic and approved by the Sponsored Party prior to such costs being incurred, in taking actions either requested by the Sponsored Party or deemed necessary by the Republic under the Rules of the ISA, to support the application before the ISA.; Section 24. Material Changes and updated information. (1) A Sponsored Party shall without delay notify the Authority in writing, where: (a) any of the information provided pursuant to Section 23 of this Act is proposed to be changed in any material particular, including as a result of comments received or amendments required by the ISA during the Sponsored Party’s application for an ISA contract or amendments to the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (b) any new or updated information arises that materially affects the Sponsored Party’s ability to meet the Qualification Criteria. (2) Where a notification is made pursuant to subsection (1), the Sponsored Party shall consider any comments provided by the Authority in relation to such proposed changes, including proposed changes to the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 25. Sponsorship Agreements. (1) The Minister with the Cabinet’s approval, may enter into written agreements with the Sponsored Party at any time to establish additional terms and conditions as to the sponsorship arrangement, provided that the terms of such an agreement do not or are not likely to lead to a contravention by the Republic or the Sponsored Party of the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA or this Act. (2) The Authority shall publish on its website a copy of any written agreement concluded with a Sponsored Party except for confidential information which shall be redacted. (3) Where a variation to a Sponsorship Agreement is requested by the Authority or the Sponsored Party including due to a change in the relevant Rules of the ISA or the Republic’s internatioNal legal obligations as a sponsoring State, the parties shall work together to amend the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 27. Sponsored Party’s obligations in relation to Affiliates and. Associates (1) Subject to this Section, a Sponsored Party may engage any Associate or Affiliate to undertake all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any agreement or other arrangement between the Sponsored Party and any Associates or Affiliates engaged or to be engaged in all or any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities, shall contain appropriate terms and conditions by which the Associate or Affiliate agrees to comply with the Rules of the ISA and this Act, to the extent applicable to the activities undertaken by such Affiliate or Associate. (3) A Sponsored Party shall ensure that all Affiliates and Associates: (a) undertaking all or a material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities authorised by the ISA Contract are made aware of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) perform their work and tasks in conformity with the Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (c) permit the Authority or any Approved Expert appointed by the Authority to conduct an audit of any documents, records or information to verify compliance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (4) The Authority may request the Sponsored Party to provide documentary evidence, including copies of any relevant contracts and agreements concluded with relevant Associates or Affiliates to verify the requirements set out under subsection (2). (5) A Sponsored Party who delegates, contracts, or otherwise arranges for work or tasks under the ISA Contract to be carried out by an Affiliate, Associate or other third party is not discharged from the Sponsored Party’s obligations under the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (6) A Sponsored Party shall notify the Authority in writing of any proposed changes to the Affiliates or Associates that will undertake any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities on behalf of the Sponsored Party, not less than 30 days before the proposed date of the commencement of the proposed change. (7) The Authority may request that the Sponsored Party provide it with further information to determine that the Sponsored Party continues to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of this Act. (8) Any direction or warning issued to a Sponsored Party by the Authority shall extend to any Affiliate or Associate engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities for or on behalf of the Sponsored Party and the Sponsored Party shall give a copy of the direction to the Affiliate or Associate where the direction is relevant to the work or tasks being performed by such Associate or Affiliate. (9) Nothing in this Section precludes the Authority from issuing a direction directly to any relevant Affiliate or Associate. (10) A Sponsored Party that fails to comply with the requirements of this Section commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $500,000.; Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be: (a) responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage: (i) arising out of its failure to comply with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (ii) as a consequence of any act or omission in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (c) liable for any penalties arising out of its failure to comply with this UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The Republic shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities, including any acts or omission of the part of the Sponsored Party’s employees, except to the extent such actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims or demands arise from acts or omissions by the Authority in exercise of its powers and functions under this Act. (3) A Sponsored Party is required, together with any relevant Affiliate or Associate to execute a guarantee and indemnity in a form that is acceptable to the Authority, to indemnify the Authority and the Republic against any liability incurred by the Republic whether under the UNCLOS or otherwise arising from the conduct of the Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 30. Responsibilities of Nauru as a Sponsoring State. Where the Republic is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a corresponding ISA Contract to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, the Government or through the Authority shall: (a) take all appropriate means to exercise its Effective Control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the Republic, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (c) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (d) promote the application of the precautionary approach and implementation of best environmental practices and best available techniques in cooperation with the ISA and the Sponsored Party; (e) comply with its due diligence obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (f) within its competence and capabilities and in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA, adopt a plan to implement and modify measures for the effective protection of the Marine Environment which may arise from Seabed Mineral Activities, in cooperation with the ISA or on the advice of Approved Experts; (g) cooperate with the ISA to provide such data and information as is reasonably necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) assist the ISA in carrying out supervision, monitoring, audits and inspections of the Sponsored Party and cooperate with coastal States and flag States where relevant, with the aim to ensure the Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (i) assist the Sponsored Party in any interaction with the ISA relating to the administration of the ISA Contract, including clarification of any requirements under the Rules of the ISA; (j) provide the Sponsored Party with copies of any information or notices received by the Authority from the ISA, States Parties, other regulatory bodies or persons relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (k) accord the Sponsored Party fair and equitable treatment, and provide a stable and predictable legal framework and make decisions consistently and transparently; (l) keep the Sponsored Party informed of any amendments to any written law and the regulatory regime that may affect a Sponsored Party or their Seabed Mineral Activities and provide a Sponsored Party sufficient time to ensure that they are able to comply with those changes; (m) not nationalise or expropriate a Sponsored Party’s investment or take measures having effect equivalent to nationalisation or expropriation except for on a non-discriminatory basis and against prompt adequate and effective compensation, such compensation shall: (i) amount to the genuine value of the Sponsored Party’s investment immediately before the expropriation or before the impending expropriation becomes public knowledge whichever is the earlier; (ii) include interest at a normal commercial rate until the date of payment; (iii) be made without delay; (iv) be effectively realisable; and (v) be freely transferable; (n) accord all Sponsored Parties treatment no less favourable that the treatment it accords, in like situations, to other investors; (o) accord Sponsored Parties full security and protection; and (p) guarantee the conversion and transfer overseas of Sponsored Parties’ earnings and savings or earnings of expatriate personnel, their affiliates and subcontractors, resulting from the Seabed Minerals Activities.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power, whether acting on its own or in cooperation with the ISA, to conduct examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties, Affiliates or Associates and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as is necessary to meet the Republic’s responsibilities under any written law or international law, which may include: (a) sending an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities, vessel installation or premises of the Sponsored Party, Affiliates or Associates; (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, at any time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; or (c) use of real time monitoring technologies. (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection (1)(a) shall: (a) take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels; and (b) follow all instructions and directions pertaining to the safety of life at sea given to them by the master of the vessel or other relevant safety officers aboard vessels and installations. (3) The Authority may direct any person to furnish it within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person who without reasonable excuse fails to comply with a direction issued under this Section, commits an offence and shall upon conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding $200,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years, or to both.; Section 32. Administrative Action. (1) In the event of the Authority determining, on factual evidence that a Sponsored Party, Associate or Affiliate has breached or in the Authority’s reasonable opinion is at serious risk of breaching the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, Regulations or the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement, the Authority may: (a) issue written warnings including warnings in relation to possible action the Authority may take in the event of future material breaches; (b) enter into a written agreement providing for the Sponsored Party to undertake a programme of remedial action and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (c) issue a written notice requiring the Sponsored Party to take specified preventative or corrective, timebound action or not take specified action, aimed to stop, remedy or mitigate the risk of occurrence or reoccurrence of the breach; or (d) in the case of actual material breach: (i) impose upon the Sponsored Party monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $2,000,000 which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm caused; or (ii) commence a process under Sections 42 and 43 to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate. (2) An action undertaken under subsection (1), shall: (a) be commensurate with the gravity, frequency and other circumstances of the material or reasonably anticipated breach, including the Sponsored Party’s previous conduct under the Republic’s Sponsorship; and (b) consider any penalty imposed or other action undertaken by the ISA in relation to the same breach. (3) The Authority shall publish details of any action undertaken under this Section in the Gazette, except for any confidential information.; Section 33. Records and Confidentiality. (1) The Authority shall keep and maintain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issued, Sponsorship Agreements, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority shall securely keep and maintain all confidential information received in accordance with the prescribed procedures, and shall not disclose such information unless: (a) it is permitted to be disclosed under Section 52 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) the disclosure is made for the purposes of or in connection with, the performance or exercise of any function, power or duty conferred under this Act or any other written law; (c) the disclosure is required by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator agreed to by the Parties; (d) the disclosure is made in connection with proceedings or any investigation or inquiry for proceedings, for an offence against this Act or any other enactment; (e) the information is: (i) required by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (ii) requested by the Secretary-General of the ISA or their designated representative in writing together with an explanation that such information is necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS; (iii) such that the Authority considers it may assist the ISA in securing compliance of a Sponsored Party under Article 153(4) of the UNCLOS; or (iv) required by another national regulatory agency where the Authority believes the information may assist such agency in the exercise of its powers or performance of its functions under an enactment relating to the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (f) the information is reasonably required by Approved Experts engaged by the Authority in the performance of their services, provided: (i) that such experts undertake in writing to keep the information confidential; and (ii) the disclosure is reasonably necessary in connection with the Authority in exercising its functions under this Act; or (g) the information is publicly available; (3) Where confidential information is required to be disclosed under subsection (2)(a) to (f), the Authority shall inform the Sponsored Party prior to such disclosure taking place. (4) Where the Authority intends to disclose any confidential information, the disclosure of which is not provided for under subsection (2), the Authority shall consult with the Sponsored Party about the content and nature of such disclosure and shall agree any disclosure with the Sponsored Party before any such disclosure occurs and subject to any terms and conditions that the parties consider appropriate. (5) Where the Authority becomes aware of a suspected or actual breach of this Section, the Authority shall immediately inform the Sponsored Party and take all practicable measures to prevent or cease the suspected or actual breach.; Section 34. Disclosure of payments. All payments made by the Sponsored Party to the Authority or other Departments in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities under this Act or any other written law is public information and may be disclosed.; Section 36. Termination of Sponsorship. (1) A Sponsorship Certificate shall be terminated where: (a) the Sponsored Party’s corresponding ISA contract expires, is surrendered or is terminated under the Rules of ISA; (b) the Sponsorship Certificate is surrendered by the Sponsored Party in accordance with Section 39; (c) the Sponsorship Certificate is revoked by the Authority in accordance with Section 42; or (d) all the rights and obligations under the ISA Contract are assigned to a third party. (2) A Sponsorship granted by the Republic shall cease upon the termination of a Sponsorship Certificate.; Section 37. Directions upon termination of Sponsorship Certificate. (1) The Authority may give directions to the Sponsored Party, where the Sponsorship Certificate is terminated under Section 36, including a direction that: (a) the Sponsored Party continues to comply with all or any of its obligations under this Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement; (b) copies of any relevant records kept by the Sponsored Party be delivered to the Authority or any other person; or (c) specified measures be undertaken to effectively prevent, contain or minimise any harmful effects to the marine environment. (2) A direction under subsection (1)(c) may impose restrictions on the Seabed Mineral Activities including a requirement to cease all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities and to comply with any instructions of the Authority or the ISA that relate to any restriction or to ceasing the activities. (3) Where the Authority is satisfied that a Sponsored Party has failed without reasonable excuse to comply with a direction given under subsection (1), the Authority may impose a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000.; Section 38. Ongoing obligations and liability of Sponsored Party after. termination (1) Notwithstanding the termination of a Sponsorship Certificate, a Sponsored Party shall remain: (a) subject to any ongoing obligations with respect to the Seabed Mineral Activities that occurred prior to termination, including requirements to submit reports and to make payments to the Authority or the ISA; and (b) responsible in accordance with this Act for the actual amount of any damage from its wrongful acts or omissions or otherwise arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out prior to termination. (2) The indemnity provided to the Republic under Section 29(3) shall continue in force until the Republic is no longer responsible for potential liabilities under the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act, that may arise as a consequence of the Seabed Mineral Activities that were carried out by the Sponsored Party or its Associates and Affiliates.; Section 39. Surrender of sponsorship. A Sponsored Party may at any time surrender a Sponsorship Certificate without penalty by giving to the Authority, not less than 3 months’ notice in writing to that effect.; Section 40. Assignment of rights and obligations. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a Sponsored Party may assign its rights and obligations under an ISA Contract in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the proposed assignee is neither a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic, nor under the Republic’s Effective Control, a Sponsored Party shall: (a) notify the Authority of the proposed assignment prior to applying to the ISA for consent to the assignment; (b) provide the Authority with an opportunity to respond on the proposed assignment or request consultations within 14 days after notification; and (c) respond to the Authorities response within 7 day of receiving such response. (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2)(a), the Sponsored Party may apply to the ISA for consent to the assignment at any time 30 days after the date of its notification under subsection (2)(a). (4) A Sponsored Party shall not assign its rights and obligations under an ISA contract without the prior approval of the Cabinet. (5) A Sponsorship Certificate may only be issued to an assignee where: (a) the Cabinet has approved the proposed assignment under subsection (4); (b) the Cabinet has approved the proposed assignee to take the assignment of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (c) the assignee is a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or an instrumentality which is under the Effective Control of the Government. (6) The consent and approval under subsections (1) and (2) shall not be unreasonably withheld, where the proposed assignee is eligible under this Act to be issued a Sponsorship Certificate. (7) An application shall be made to the Authority by both the Sponsored Party and proposed assignee in accordance with any prescribed procedure. (8) The Authority for the purpose of making a recommendation to the Cabinet under this Section shall: (a) request all such information from the proposed assignee as would be required of a Sponsorship Applicant under this Act; (b) require an undertaking from the proposed assignee that it will assume all of the obligations and liabilities of the Sponsored Party upon assignment; (c) require the Sponsored Party or proposed assignee to provide any other information that the Authority considers reasonably necessary to assess the application; and (d) require the payment of the prescribed fee. (9) The Cabinet’s approval under this Section may be given with or without conditions, which may include: (a) the execution of a guarantee and indemnity by the assignee pursuant to Section 29(3) of this Act; and (b) the provision of a Security Deposit by the assignee under Section 52 of this Act. (10) An assignment under this Section shall not affect the ongoing obligations or potential liability incurred by the Sponsored Party.; Section 41. Change of ownership, constitution or control of a Sponsored. Party (1) A Sponsored Party shall, as soon as practicable, notify the Authority of any change in the constitution, ownership, control or corporate organisation of the Sponsored Party, if such change is significant. (2) A notification by the Sponsored Party shall be accompanied by the prescribed information. (3) The Authority, within 30 Days from the date of receipt of a notice under subsection (1), shall examine the information provided by the Sponsored Party and assess whether the Qualification Criteria is met. (4) Where the Authority considers that one or more of the Qualification Criteria is not met, it shall notify the Sponsored Party and request that the identified deficiency be remedied within a specified time period. (5) Where the deficiency cannot be remedied, the Authority may initiate revocation of the Sponsorship Certificate under Section 42. (6) For the purposes of this Section ‘significant’ means: (a) the Sponsored Party has been bought by or transferred to another person; (b) a person obtains the power whether directly or indirectly to exercise or control the exercise of, 50% or more of the voting rights of the Sponsored Party; (c) there is a change in control of an Affiliate, Associate or persons involved in the management of the applicant’s business; or (d) there is a change in control of a person providing a security deposit under Section 52 of the Act.; Section 42. Revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate. The Minister, on the Authority’s recommendation and with Cabinet approval, may revoke any Sponsorship Certificate, for one or more of the following reasons: (a) where, despite a written warning by the Authority, one or more of the Qualification Criteria ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under Section 52 is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) in any case, with the written consent of the Sponsored Party; (d) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of the Sponsored Party or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (e) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding 5 years from the date of signing the ISA Contract, except where the lack of material efforts is required to comply with the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise approved by the ISA; (f) where despite a written warning by the Authority, there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the relevant Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or regulations or administrative measures orders made under this Act or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party and such breach: (i) cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party; or (ii) has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (g) where, following at least 2 written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party, any payment due to the Republic is in arrears for 6 months from the day on which the amount became payable; (h) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority; and (i) where the Cabinet is satisfied that it is in the Republic’s interest to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, including to avoid conflict with any obligation of the Republic arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Republic.; Section 43. Notice of revocation. (1) Prior to making a decision under Section 42, the Authority shall: (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 60 days’ written notice of the Minister’s intention to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it and inviting the Sponsored Party to make a written submission within a specified timeframe, about the proposed revocation; (b) provide a copy of the notice to any other person as the Authority deems necessary; (c) where applicable, consult with the ISA on the Sponsored Party’s compliance record and any action that may be taken by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; and (d) consider any written submissions provided by the Sponsored Party. (2) Where the final decision taken is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate the Authority shall: (a) notify the ISA in accordance with the Rules of the ISA; (b) provide the Sponsored Party reasons for such termination; and (c) subject to Section 44, provide the Sponsored Party a minimum of 6 months’ notice before that revocation takes effect.; Section 44. Temporary continuation of sponsorship. (1) Where the Minister revokes a Sponsorship Certificate under Section 42 and the reason does not relate to any material breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA or this Act, the Sponsored Party may request the Minister to temporarily continue sponsorship to: (a) give the Sponsored Party a reasonable opportunity to find another State Party to sponsor its Seabed Mineral Activities; and (b) permit the Seabed Mineral Activities to continue without adverse disruption to the Sponsored Party. (2) The Minister may approve such request provided that: (a) the Sponsored Party undertakes to continue to perform all its obligations under the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) the Sponsored Party demonstrates it will make all reasonable efforts to secure a replacement sponsoring State; and (c) the corresponding ISA Contract has not been suspended or terminated. (3) Where the Minister approves the temporary continuation of sponsorship under subsection (2), sponsorship shall continue until: (a) any surrender of the Sponsorship Certificate by the Sponsored Party under Section 39; (b) the effective completion date of the assignment of the rights and obligations under the ISA Contract; (c) a replacement sponsoring State has been secured and a Sponsorship Certificate issued; or (d) 2 years from the date the request under subsection (1) had been received by the Minister, whichever of paragraphs (a) to (d) occurs earlier.; Section 46. Process for annual administration fee. (1) A Sponsored Party shall pay to the Authority an annual administration fee: (a) within 6 months from the date of issue of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (b) every year after that, payable before 31st January of each successive year. (2) On or before 31st January of each successive year the Authority shall prepare an estimate of the annual administration fee for the next annual period based on the principle of cost recovery under Section 50 and provide details of the estimate to the Sponsored Party for its review. (3) Within 14 days of its receipt of the estimate the Sponsored party shall provide its submission following the review of the administration fee to the Authority. (4) Subject to subsection (5), within 14 days of its receipt of any submission from the Sponsored Party the Board shall approve the annual administration fee considering the submission received from the Sponsored Party. (5) The Board may approve any annual administration fee, the sum of which is in excess of 10% of the previous year’s annual administration fee, unless the Sponsored Party is given an opportunity to be heard and make submissions on the proposed increment in excess of 10%. (6) Where the actual and reasonable costs in a particular annual period exceed or are expected to exceed the annual administration fee paid by the Sponsored Party for that year, the Authority shall provide the Sponsored Party details of the excess, which may include unanticipated costs for Approved Experts, and the Sponsored Party shall, in good faith, review and consider payment of the excess amount. (7) On or before 31st January of each successive year, the Authority shall provide to the Sponsored Party with a reconciliation of actual costs incurred during the previous annual period. (8) Where the actual costs in a particular annual period are less than the annual administration fee paid for that annual period, any excess of the administration fee shall be credited to the annual administration fee payable for the next annual period.; Section 47. Seabed Mineral Recovery Payment. (1) A Sponsored Party holding an ISA Contract for Exploitation under the Republic’s sponsorship, shall pay to the Authority such sums by way of a Seabed Mineral recovery payment, as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement. (2) The Seabed Mineral recovery payment may be: (a) based on the percentage of the latest market value of the metal content contained in the Seabed Minerals recovered by the Sponsored Party through the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) expressed as a unit amount per metric ton of Seabed Minerals recovered from the ISA Contract Area. (3) A Sponsored Party shall lodge with the Authority a Seabed Mineral recovery payment return for the periods: (a) 1 January to 30 June; and (b) 1 July to 31 December, within 90 days after the end of the return period. (4) The Sponsored Party shall pay the amount due for a return period on the Day the return is required to be lodged with the Authority. (5) A payment to the Authority shall be made in the United States of America currency or other equivalent foreign currency. (6) The Authority may audit the Sponsored Party’s records in connection with a liability for the recovery payment.; Section 50. Recovery of payments owed by Sponsored Parties. (1) A sum of money payable pursuant to Section 47 is a debt owed to the Republic, and may be recovered in the Supreme Court and: (a) in any such proceedings, a certificate of the Authority certifying that a specified sum of money is payable, shall be received as evidence of that fact; (b) any debt of the Sponsored Party may at the court’s discretion be recovered from any security deposited by the same Sponsored Party under Section 52; and (c) interest on the amount outstanding may additionally be charged at a prescribed or otherwise reasonable rate. (2) The Sponsored Party may only defend a suit under subsection (1) if it can demonstrate that the sum claimed in the Certificate is incorrect or erroneously calculated.; Section 51. Taxation. A Sponsored Party shall be subject to pay tax payable under the Business Tax Act 2016 in relation to its profit derived from Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 52. Security Deposit. (1) The Authority may after an Exploitation contract has been granted by the ISA to the Sponsored Party, and prior to Exploitation commencing, require a Sponsored Party to provide a Security Deposit as a guarantee of performance of its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The form and value of any such security required, and the terms upon which it will be held, shall be specified as a condition in a Sponsorship Agreement made under Section 25 and take into account the type and quantum of any security or guarantee that the Sponsored Party is also required to deposit with the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) A security deposited in accordance with this Section may be used by the Authority to: (a) take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Sponsored Party fails to fulfil under this Act or under terms of its Sponsorship Agreement; (b) rectify any damage or loss caused as a result of such failure; or (c) satisfy any order of compensation or damages made against the Sponsored Party by a court or tribunal. (4) The Authority may adjust the amount of an original security where there has been a material change in circumstances, including: (a) a change in the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party; or (b) a change in the scope, nature and magnitude of the Seabed Mineral Activities under an ISA Contract.; Section 53. Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to hear and determine. matters (1) The Supreme Court has jurisdiction under this Act to conduct: (a) judicial review of administrative decisions, determinations, actions or inquiries taken under this Act; or (b) proceedings to establish liability and to provide recourse for prompt and adequate compensation in the event of an unlawful damage caused by Seabed Mineral Activities, in accordance with Article 235(2) of the UNCLOS. (2) Nothing in this Section shall prejudice the dispute resolution rights of Sponsored Parties under Section 56.; Section 54. Registration of decisions by the Seabed Disputes Chamber. (1) A person may apply to the Supreme Court for an order for a decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber to be registered in the Supreme Court. (2) The Supreme Court may issue an order that the decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber involving a State may be registered. (3) No privilege or immunity that a State may claim against the enforcement of the decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber shall be affected by the registration of such decision. (4) The Republic waives the privilege or immunity in relation to a registered decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber involving a Sponsored Party.; Section 56. Disputes. (1) Any dispute arising between the Republic and another State, or the Republic and the ISA, in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities shall be resolved pursuant to the provisions of the UNCLOS. (2) Any dispute between the Republic and a Sponsored Party in respect of a Sponsorship Agreement or arising in connection with the administration of this Act shall be dealt with pursuant to the process and procedures set out in the Sponsorship Agreement or as prescribed. (3) The Republic shall consent to undergoing arbitration in accordance with the process and procedures under subsection (2), for any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Act or a Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Any arbitral award granted as a result of any dispute resolution procedures referred to in this Section is to be treated as if the arbitral award was a judgment of the Supreme Court made on the date on which the arbitral award is made, for the following purposes: (a) the force and effect of the arbitral award in relation to the enforcement of the arbitral award; (b) the exercise of the powers of the Supreme Court in relation to the enforcement of the arbitral award; (c) the taking of proceedings for or in relation to the enforcement of the arbitral award; or (d) where the arbitral award is for the payment of a sum of money, the carrying and computation of interest on that sum. (5) For the avoidance of doubt, the Foreign Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcement) Act 1973 and all other laws related to the enforcement of foreign or domestic arbitral awards shall not apply to any arbitral award granted as a result of the dispute resolution procedures under this Section.; Section 57. Interference with Seabed Mineral Activities or the Authority. (1) No person shall: (a) interfere with any Seabed Mineral Activities or a vessel, installation or equipment used in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) cause: (i) physical hindrance to; (ii) obstruction to; or (iii) violence against, any officer, observer, inspector or other duly designated representative of the Authority or the ISA, or persons engaged by the Sponsored Party in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities in respect of the exercise of a power, or the performance of a function, under this Act or an ISA contract. (2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a), ‘interfere with’ means: (a) the wilful sabotage or attempted wilful sabotage of Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) any physical interference with the Seabed Mineral Activities or a vessel, installation or equipment used in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities, such that it causes or is likely to cause a danger to the health and safety of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) Any person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or to an imprisonment term not exceeding 10 years, or both.; Section 58. Safety zones around Exploration or Exploitation vessels. (1) A Sponsored Party may, consistent with the UNCLOS and in cooperation with the master of any vessel or installation, establish a safety zone around vessels and installations conducting activities in the Area that extends from the outer extremities of such vessels, installations or equipment deployed and installations, to a distance of 500 metres in all directions. (2) No vessel or person shall navigate within or enter a safety zone. (3) Subsection (2) shall not apply to a vessel that: (a) is in distress; (b) is attempting to save a life or provide assistance to a vessel in distress; (c) is operated by or on behalf of the ISA or a State having jurisdiction over the exploration or exploitation operations; or (d) has received permission from the person in charge of the exploration or exploitation vessel or installation to enter the safety zone around such vessel. (4) Any person who contravenes subsection (2) commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or to an imprisonment term not exceeding 10 years or to both.; Section 59. Public office holder prohibited from Seabed Mineral rights. (1) Unless any right or interest of a public office holder has been approved and declared by Cabinet, no public office holder shall: (a) directly or indirectly acquire or retain any personal share-holding in a body corporate carrying on Seabed Mineral Activities under the Republic’s Sponsorship; or (b) act, directly or indirectly, to personally acquire any right or interest in any Sponsored Party’s contract for Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any document or transaction purporting to confer any right or interest on any such public office holder who has acted in breach of subsection (1), shall be null and void. (3) A public office holder who contravenes subsection (1), commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine not less than $5,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or to both.; Section 60. Conduct for improper benefit. (1) A Sponsored Party shall not engage in, and shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that its employees, Associates, and Affiliates do not engage in, any activity related to the Sponsorship in exchange for any improper benefit to: (a) the Sponsored Party, any employee, associate, affiliate or any other person, including a friend or family member or any person associated with the Sponsored Party, by personal or other relationship; or (b) any member of the Authority or a technical assistance committee, inspector, observer, officer, public official, or other person acting for or on behalf of the Government. (2) The contravention of subsection (1) shall be a ground for revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate.; Section 62. Inquiries into incidents. (1) Where an incident occurs in respect to Seabed Mineral Activities under the Sponsorship of the Republic, the Sponsored Party shall inform the ISA and provide a copy of all information provided to the ISA to the Authority. (2) The Authority may hold or commission inquiries into the incident in cooperation with the ISA and other relevant international organisations or agencies. (3) A Sponsored Party who is found in an Inquiry to have failed whether knowingly or recklessly, to comply with the Rules of the ISA concerning incidents, commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000,000.; Section 63. Other sea users. A Sponsored Party shall carry out and ensure that its Affiliates and Associates carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities in such manner that does not interfere unreasonably with the exercise of the freedom of the high seas provided for under Article 87 of the UNCLOS.; Section 64. Rights of other States including coastal States not affected. (1) Nothing in this Act shall in any way affect the rights of Coastal States in accordance with Article 142 and other relevant provisions of the UNCLOS. (2) A Coastal State that has grounds for believing that Seabed Mineral Activities have caused, are causing or are likely to cause harm to the Marine Environment under its jurisdiction, may notify the Authority in writing of the grounds on which such belief is based. (3) The Authority shall provide any Sponsored Party affected by the notice with a reasonable opportunity to respond on it, within a time period that is reasonable in the circumstances.; Section 65. Notice. Any application, request, notice, warning, report, or direction made or given under this Act shall be made in writing by the head of the Authority or the designated representative of the Sponsored Party, as the case may be, and shall be deemed served the day after delivery, if delivered by hand, facsimile or email to the Authority or to the designated representative.; Section 66. Transitional and savings provision. (1) Where the Republic has provided a Sponsorship Certificate to a Sponsored Party under the repealed Act, such certificate shall be deemed to have been issued in accordance with this Act and shall remain valid unless and until it is terminated under this Act. (2) The Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority established under the repealed Act, is reconstituted under this Act and is deemed to continue with its existence under this Act. (3) An act, decision, undertaking or contract made or entered into under the provisions of the repealed Act, shall be deemed to have been made under this Act and shall remain valid unless it is varied, suspended or revoked under this Act. (4) A proceeding, cause or matter commenced under the repealed Act shall be continued to completion, as it if was commenced under this Act. (5) A member appointed under Section 8 of the repealed Act shall cease to hold office at the commencement of this Act. (6) A person appointed as an officer of the Authority under the repealed Act, is deemed to appointed under this Act and shall continue to hold such office until such time the appointment is varied, revoked or terminated under this Act. (7) The staff of the Authority shall conduct themselves in accordance with the requirements of Sections 57 and 58 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019 until such time as the Authority prescribes a Code of Conduct for its staff.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 5. Objects of this Act The objects of this Act are – (a) to establish a legal framework and domestic and international investment environment for the development of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; (b) to establish a legal framework for, and the efficient control of, contractors sponsored by the Kingdom to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (c) to ensure that Seabed Mineral Activities within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction, or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area, are carried out according to best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including the Kingdom‘s responsibilities under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (d) to promote transparency in decision-making on matters concerning the Kingdom‘s management of Seabed Minerals within its jurisdiction or under its sponsorship in the Area; (e) to secure economic development of the Kingdom through the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; Page 12 2020 Revised Edition (f) to secure optimum benefit to the Kingdom from Mining and to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations of Tongans.; Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition; Section 11. Objectives of the Authority The Authority has the following objectives- (a) The compliance objective - to maintain effective control of Seabed Mineral Activities, by securing compliance by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties with their obligations under this Act; (b) The national interest objective - to promote the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities to maximise benefits to the Kingdom and the people of Tonga; (c) The protection objective - (i) to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; and (ii) to protect the well-being of individuals and communities insofar as may be impacted by or employed in Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) The accountability objective – to provide a stable, transparent and accountable regime within the Kingdom for the Permitting, Licensing and Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 12. Functions of the Authority (1) To ensure the implementation of this Act, the Authority has the following functions, to - 2020 Revised Edition Page 15 (a) develop policies for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Tongan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) manage the designation and allocation of Titles, and maintain records of Titles granted and the blocks or cells of seabed to which they relate; (c) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to Applications, Titles, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (d) conduct due diligence enquiry into Applicant Prospectors, Licensees or Sponsored Parties; (e) receive and evaluate Applications to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities under the Kingdom‘s control or sponsorship; (f) review or obtain a review of Environmental Impact Assessments for Seabed Mineral Activities required under this Act and the EIA Act; (g) recommend to Cabinet whether or not Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted, and on what terms; (h) prepare Prospecting Permits, Licences and Sponsorship Certificates; (i) receive and assess reporting documents from Title Holders; (j) monitor the performance and impact of Seabed Mineral Activities, and compliance by Title Holders with the terms of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act, and the relevant Title; (k) monitor the continuing validity of the terms of a Title; (l) effect the amendment of the terms of a Title where expedient, and in accordance with this Act; (m) enforce sanctions for non-compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or a Title; (n) require and review relevant reports and information from Title Holders, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) share information and consult about Seabed Mineral Activities with the general public as appropriate; (p) publish and submit to Parliament an annual report of Seabed Mineral Activities not later than ninety days after the end of each calendar year; (q) provide technical assistance to other Government agencies of the Kingdom in all matters relevant to Seabed Minerals; (r) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisation in accordance with the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea to facilitate the lawful conduct of Seabed Minerals Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment; (s) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, Page 16 2020 Revised Edition scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (2) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-section (1)(s) or (t), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as the Minister may determine, in consultation with the Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (3) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority or Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act.; Section 15. Information Order (1) In performing its functions, and subject to the provisions of this Act, the Authority may gather, retain and publish or disseminate information relating to any Application, Title, Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations. (2) The Authority shall not disclose information that it receives in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities unless – 2020 Revised Edition Page 17 (a) the relevant Licensee or Applicant consents; (b) the information is not information about a Licensee's technical specifications or financial resources, confidential information contained in a Licence Application, a trade secret, or information the disclosure could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the person's business, commercial or financial affairs; and (c) the disclosure is made by order of the court. (3) The Authority may by Order require any person to furnish it within a reasonable time with any information it reasonably believes is in that person‘s possession which relates to any Title, Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations and is relevant to the discharge of the Authority‘s functions. (4) The Authority may by Order summon a Title Holder or its authorised representative, for the purposes of furnishing information under subsection (3). (5) Any person who fails to comply with an Order made under this section without reasonable justification commits an offence. (6) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000.; Section 16. Supply of false or misleading information to the Authority (1) Any person who knowingly or recklessly provides the Authority with information which is false or misleading in a material particular commits an offence if the information — (a) is provided in purported compliance with a requirement imposed by or under this Act; or (b) is provided otherwise than as mentioned in sub-section (1)(a) but in circumstances in which the person providing the information intends, or could reasonably be expected to know, that it would be used by the Authority for the purpose of discharging their functions under this Act. (2) Any person who wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which he is or is liable to be required, by or under this Act, to produce to the Authority commits an offence. (3) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $150,000.; Section 20. Incidents and Inquiries (1) Where an Incident occurs in respect of a Seabed Mineral Activity under the Sponsorship of the Kingdom, the Sponsored Party shall inform the ISA and copy all information provided to the ISA to the Authority. For the purposes of this section an Incident shall (without limitation) be deemed to have occurred when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, or damaged; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by a medical practitioner not affiliated with the Title Holder, Seabed 2020 Revised Edition Page 19 Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law. (2) A Title Holder involved in an Incident shall report it to the Authority in accordance with section 39 of this Act, and shall respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the Authority‘s instructions, or the ISA‘s instructions where relevant. (3) The Authority may hold, or may commission, inquiries into Incidents. (4) The Authority shall provide such administrative assistance to a Title Holder as is expedient to facilitate the Title Holder‘s efficient response to an Incident.; Section 22. Inspectors’ Powers (1) Any person appointed by the Authority as an Inspector under section 21(3) of this Act, shall, if reasonably necessary for the purpose of determining compliance with this Act, be entitled at all reasonable times and with reasonable notice to a Title Holder to— (a) board or obtain access to the Licence Area or Contract Area and all parts of any premises, vessel or equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) inspect or test any machinery or equipment that in the Inspector‘s opinion is being or is intended to be used for the purposes of Seabed Mineral Activities and, if the Inspector deems fit, to dismantle, test to destruction or take possession of any such machinery or equipment; (c) remove any samples or assays of such samples from any vessel or equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) examine and take copies of books, accounts, documents or records of any kind required to be kept under this Act, Regulations, and the Title; (e) require the Title Holder to carry out such procedures in respect of any equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities as may be deemed necessary by the Authority; (f) document any site visit or inspection activity using any reasonable means including video, audio, photograph or other form of recording; (g) upon written authorisation from the Authority, perform any other functions of the Authority as its representative, including the issue of Orders under sections 15 (Information Order) and 23 (Enforcement Order) of this Act; and (h) conduct any additional actions as prescribed. (2) An Inspector shall take all reasonable steps to avoid- expending excessive time on a Title Holders‘ vessel or platform at-sea, disruption of Seabed Mineral Activities, or interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels. (3) A Title Holder and its officers and agents shall make best endeavours to co- operate with the reasonable requests and exercise of powers by an Inspector. (4) The wilful obstruction by any person of the work of an Inspector, or the failure by a Title Holder or its officer or agent to comply with sub-section (3), commits an offence. (5) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000. 2020 Revised Edition Page 21; Section 23. Enforcement Order (1) The Authority (including authorised officers) may decide to issue an Enforcement Order requiring corrective action in relation to a suspected, observed or anticipated contravention of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or a term of a Title, or in respect of any suspected, observed or anticipated circumstance that presents or would present a risk to life or a risk of Serious Harm to the Marine Environment. (2) An Enforcement Order made under this section may in reasonable terms – (a) require a person to- (i) take corrective action; (ii) stop taking harmful action; or (iii) pay money to another person to cover reasonable costs incurred due to failure to comply; and (b) include a mandatory timeframe for the required action or inaction. (3) Failure to comply with an Enforcement Order made under this section shall be an offence. (4) It is a defence for a person charged with an offence under sub-section (3) to prove that he took all reasonable steps within his control for securing that the required action or inaction would be complied with in time. (5) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000.; Section 37. Prohibited Activities (1) No person may engage in any Seabed Mineral Activities unless, and only insofar as, authorised to do so under a Title issued under this Act. (2) The prohibitions of sub-section (1) shall not apply to Marine Scientific Research. (3) Any person who contravenes sub-section (1) commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 and any Seabed Minerals or other products, or proceeds obtained as a result of actions prohibited by sub-section (1) shall be forfeited to the Crown. Page 26 2020 Revised Edition; Section 38. Adherence to laws and rules (1) Any person engaging in Seabed Mineral Activities under a Title is required, inter alia, to - (a) adhere to the provisions in each case in force from time to time; of - (i) the Marine Pollution Prevention Act 2002; (ii) the EIA Act and any regulations made under it, including but not limited to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2010; (iii) the Environment Management Act 2010; (iv) this Act, and Regulations made under this Act; (v) the terms and conditions of the Title permitting the Seabed Mineral Activities; (vi) any environmental conditions arising from the Environmental Impact Assessment process. (2) Any Sponsored Party engaging in Seabed Mineral Activities is required to adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA, this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and the terms of any Sponsorship Certificate issued under Part 7 of this Act.; Section 67. Seabed Minerals recovered under Exploration Licence (1) Any core or sample or other quantity or part of Seabed Minerals acquired by the Licensee in the course of undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations under an Exploration Licence shall remain the property of the Crown and shall not be disposed of or removed from the Kingdom, except for the purposes of assay, identification, analysis, or storage, without the consent of the Authority, who may grant consent subject to such conditions as the Authority may deem fit to impose. (2) Where cores or other samples of Seabed Minerals are acquired by the Licensee, a record sufficient for the identification of the core or sample and the location of its origin shall be maintained by the Licensee, and the samples shall be made accessible to the Authority, upon request. (3) Any person who does not comply with sub-section (1) commits an offence. (4) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000.; Section 70. Duties and Liability of Licensee (1) Licensees shall comply with the terms of the Licence, this Act, and any Regulations made under this Act. (2) The Licensee is responsible for the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations carried out within its Licence Area, and their compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and the Licence. (3) The Licensee shall at all times keep the Kingdom indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to its Seabed Mineral Activities, and will be liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage arising out of its failure to comply with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or the Licence, and any wrongful acts or omissions and those of its employees, officers, subcontractors, and agents in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations under Licence, including but not limited to that arising from injury to coastal or marine users, damage to the Marine Environment, and any related economic loss or compensation. (4) Any obligations which are to be observed and performed by the Licensee shall at any time at which the Licensee is more than one person be joint and several obligations. (5) The Licensee shall remain liable for damage resulting from its Seabed Minerals Activities notwithstanding that its Title may have been terminated or suspended.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 80. Terms of the Sponsorship Certificate A Sponsorship Certificate, shall be issued to a Sponsored Party in a form necessary to satisfy the Rules of the ISA, and shall contain – (a) the name of the Sponsored Party; (b) a statement that the Sponsored Party is – (i) a national of the Kingdom; or (ii) subject to the effective control of the Kingdom or its nationals; (c) a statement by the Kingdom that it sponsors the Sponsored Party; (d) the date of deposit by the Kingdom of its instrument of ratification of, or accession or succession to, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; (e) a declaration that the Kingdom assumes responsibility in accordance with article 139, article 153, paragraph 4, and Annex III, article 4, paragraph 4, of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; (f) the period of time for which the Sponsorship Certificate shall remain in force unless otherwise terminated in accordance with this Act, and any relevant regulations or other rules or guidance issued by the ISA; (g) content reasonably required by the ISA or that the Authority considers fit to include.; Section 82. Sponsorship agreements The Authority, with the Minister‘s approval may enter into written agreements with the Sponsored Party at any time to establish additional terms and conditions as to the sponsorship arrangement, provided the terms of such an agreement do not or are not likely to lead to a contravention by the Kingdom or the Sponsoring Party of the Rules of the ISA or this Act, nor be inconsistent with any international law obligations of the Kingdom. Page 48 2020 Revised Edition; Section 83. Continuing obligations of the Sponsored Party The obligations of the Sponsored Party contained in this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or in the Sponsorship Certificate or any Sponsorship agreement will where applicable commence before, and continue beyond, the period during which the Sponsored Party is actively performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations under contract with the International Seabed Authority in the Area.; Section 84. Liability of Sponsored Party (1) The Sponsored Party shall be responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and will be liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage or penalties arising out of its failure so to comply, or out of any wrongful acts or omissions and those of its employees, officers, subcontractors, and agents in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any obligations which are to be observed and performed by the Sponsored Party shall at any time at which the Sponsored Party is more than one person be joint and several obligations. (3) A Sponsored Party shall at all times keep the Kingdom indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to its Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 85. Crown Responsibilities Where the Kingdom is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, the Kingdom will, via the Authority- (a) take all actions necessary to give effect to the Kingdom‘s Sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communications with, and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to, the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (b) ensure that its conduct in relation to the ISA, the Area and Seabed Mineral Activities adheres to the requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (c) take all appropriate means to exercise its effective control over Sponsored Parties or, seeking to ensure that their Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Rules of the ISA and other requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (d) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate, or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under 2020 Revised Edition Page 49 this Act or Regulations to be made under this Act except insofar as these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; and (e) promote the application of the Precautionary Approach.; Section 86. Termination of Sponsorship Certificate (1) A Sponsorship Certificate shall remain in force unless and until it is terminated in accordance with sub-section (2). (2) A Sponsorship Certificate terminates if, pursuant to this Act – (a) it is made for a specified term and that term expires without renewal in accordance with section 87 of this Act; (b) it is surrendered by the Sponsored Party in accordance with section 89 of this Act; (c) it is revoked by the Authority in accordance with section 88 of this Act, and upon termination all rights granted to the Sponsored Party by the Kingdom shall cease and determine.; Section 87. Renewal of Sponsorship (1) A Sponsorship Certificate can be renewed by the Authority with the Minister‘s consent for successive periods of up to five years each, provided an application for renewal is received from the Sponsored Party by the Authority at least nine months before the expiry date of any initial term. (2) The Authority will inform the Sponsored Party of whether the renewal has been granted or refused within three months of the receipt of the application for renewal, and until that decision is communicated the Sponsorship Certificate shall be deemed to continue in force. (3) Where the renewal is to be refused, the Authority will follow the processes contained in section 88(2) of this Act.; Section 88. Variation, suspension and revocation of Sponsorship Certificate (1) The Authority may vary, suspend or revoke any Sponsorship Certificate — (a) where any of the prerequisite conditions required under section 78 this Act ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - Page 50 2020 Revised Edition (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any persons; or (b) the Marine Environment; or (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Sponsored Party; (e) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Sponsored Party, or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (f) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding five years from the date of signing the contract with the ISA; (g) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or Regulations made under this Act, an Order made under this Act, or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party, and such breach cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party, or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (h) where, following at least two written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party in accordance with this Act, any payment or deposit required or owing under this Act or any part thereof is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; (i) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority; and (j) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section of the Act the Authority shall – (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 30 days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice, or a copy of the notice has been given to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe, if there are any objections; (b) give a copy of the notice to any such other persons as the Authority thinks fit; 2020 Revised Edition Page 51 (c) take into account any submissions made in accordance with the notice; and (d) where the decision is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, give the Sponsored Party no fewer than six months‘ notice before that revocation takes place.; Section 89. Surrender of Sponsorship A Sponsored Party may at any time surrender a Sponsorship Certificate without penalty by giving to the Authority not less than six months' prior notice in writing to that effect.; Section 90. Ongoing liability after termination of sponsorship A Sponsoring Party shall remain – (a) subject to any ongoing obligations, including requirements to submit reports and to make payments to the Authority and the ISA; and (b) responsible for any damage from its wrongful acts or otherwise arising from its Seabed Minerals Activities in accordance with this Act, notwithstanding that its Sponsorship Certificate has terminated.; Section 91. Payments by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties (1) Application fee An Applicant for a Title under this Act shall upon Application pay to the Authority the prescribed fee, which shall be non-recoverable. (2) Sponsorship payments The holder of a Sponsorship Certificate shall pay to the Authority - (a) such sums by way of annual administrative fees for the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of its Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, and (b) where the Sponsorship Certificate pertains to a contract for Mining in the Area, such sums by way of a commercial recovery payment, at such times and in such amounts as may be prescribed, or provided in the Sponsorship Certificate or a Sponsorship agreement made under this Act. (3) Taxes Licensees, and their sub-contractors, advisors, and employees shall pay all applicable customs duties and taxes in accordance with the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Page 52 2020 Revised Edition (4) Seabed Minerals royalties The holder of a Mining Licence shall pay such sums by way of royalties for the extraction of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals and at such times as may be specified under the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Each payment shall be accompanied by details of the Seabed Minerals produced, sold or disposed of, and the details of the payment and how it has been calculated.; Section 92. Recovery of payments owed by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties A sum of money payable pursuant to section 91 of this Act, is a debt due to the Kingdom, and may be recovered in the Supreme Court of Tonga or a court of competent jurisdiction, where- (a) in any such proceedings a certificate of the Authority certifying that a specified sum of money is so payable, shall be received as evidence of that fact; (b) any sum unpaid by the Title Holder may at the court‘s discretion be recovered from any security deposited by the Title Holder under section 93 of this Act; and (c) interest on the amount outstanding may additionally be charged at a prescribed or otherwise reasonable rate determined by the court.; Section 96. Application for Marine Scientific Research For an application for consent to conduct Marine Scientific Research to have been properly made, for the purposes of section 97 to this Act, the application shall be made to the Authority in writing at least six months before the proposed commencement date of the Marine Scientific Research project, and shall contain - (a) the cruise name and number; (b) the name, nationality, contact details and address of the sponsoring institution, the scientist in charge of the project, and any other collaborators and participants; (c) the co-ordinates and charts of the broad area or areas within which the project is to be conducted; (d) a general description of the nature and objectives of the project, including the proposed date of commencement and its approximate duration, and the proposed use of the data collected, including any plans to make the research results internationally available; (e) the details of the methods, the equipment, and any installations to be used; (f) a preliminary assessment of likely impact on the Marine Environment of the proposed project; Page 54 2020 Revised Edition (g) the details of any intended ports of call; (h) modalities of the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; and (i) the expected dates and method of submission to the Kingdom of a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results.; Section 107. Termination of Title (1) A Title granted terminates if, pursuant to this Act – (a) its term expires, without renewal; (b) it is surrendered by the Title Holder; (c) it is revoked by the Authority; or (d) in the case of a Licence, it ceases to be in force in respect of the whole of its area under section 71. (2) Upon termination of any Title, the Title Holder shall deliver to the Authority – (a) all books, accounts, financial records, and performance data which the holder is required to maintain under this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or the terms of the Title; (b) all reports and plans or maps prepared by or for the Title Holder pertaining to the Seabed Mineral Activities under the Title; (c) all environmental and social consultation and related reports, documents, surveys and data prepared in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities under the Title; and (d) any other document, information or samples relating to the Title, as the Minister may reasonably direct. (3) Any person who fails to comply with sub-section (2) within 30 days of being directed to do by the Minister commits an offence. (4) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000. Page 58 2020 Revised Edition; Section 109. Nothing under this Act to authorise unnecessary interference with other sea users (1) A Title Holder shall carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities in such a way that will not interfere unreasonably with the exercise of the freedom of the high seas as reflected in article 87 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. (2) A Title Holder, or person conducting Marine Scientific Research contravenes this section if – (a) their performance of Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, interferes with – (i) navigation; (ii) fishing; (iii) submarine cabling; (iv) Marine Scientific Research; (v) the conservation of the resources of the sea or the seabed; or (vi) any other activities that are lawfully being carried out; and (b) that interference is greater than is necessary for the reasonable exercise of the rights or performance of the person's duties under the Title. (2) Any person who contravenes this section commits an offence. (3) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000. (4) Strict liability applies to an offence under this section.; Section 113. Safety zones (1) For the purpose of protecting an installation, infrastructure, facility or vessel being used for Seabed Mining Activities, the Authority may by notice published in the Gazette prohibit all vessels or specified classes of vessels, from entering or being present in a specified area (‘the safety zone’) surrounding the installation, infrastructure, facility or vessel without the written consent of the Authority. (2) The owner of a vessel and any person in formal or substantive command of a vessel commits an offence against this section if the vessel enters or remains in a safety zone in contravention of subsection (1). (3) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000. (4) It is a defence to a prosecution of a person for an offence against subsection (2) if the person satisfies the court that - (i) an unforeseen emergency made it necessary for the vessel to enter or remain in the safety zone to attempt to secure the safety of human life, a vessel, pipeline, structure or equipment; (ii) the vessel entered or remained in the safety zone in circumstances beyond the control of the person who was in command or in charge of the vessel; or (iii) he is the owner of the vessel and he did not know that the person in command or in charge of the vessel was in contravention of subsection (1).; Section 114. Interference with Seabed Mineral Activities (1) Unless authorised under this Act or Regulations made under this Act, no person may interfere with Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations. (2) For the purposes of this section, “interfere” means wilful sabotage of Seabed Mineral Activities, or violence against any representative of the Authority or a Page 60 2020 Revised Edition Title Holder in the performance of their functions and duties under this Act or a Title, or similar physical interference or obstruction without reasonable excuse. (3) Any person who does not comply with subsection (1) commits an offence. (4) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000 or to a prison term not exceeding ten years or both.; Section 115. Indemnity of Public Officials The Minister and authorised officers of the Authority shall not be liable for anything done or omitted to be done in good faith in the performance of any function vested in or delegated to them under this Act.; Section 116. Public Officials prohibited from acquiring Title rights (1) No Public Official shall, directly or indirectly, acquire any right or interest in any mineral right, and any document or transaction purporting to confer any right or interest on any such officer shall be null and void. (2) No Public Official employed in the Authority or the Ministry shall acquire or retain any share in a private company carrying on Seabed Mineral Activities during that employment or within two years following the cessation of that employment. (3) Any person who does not comply with subsection (2) commits an offence. (4) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000 or to a prison term not exceeding ten years or both.; Section 117. Disclosure of interest (1) Any person employed at the Ministry or otherwise having a role or influence in the administration of this Act who has an interest, direct or indirect, in any matter to be considered by the Authority shall disclose the nature of his interest to the Authority and such disclosure shall be recorded in the minutes of the Authority and that member shall not take part in any deliberation or decision of the Authority relating to the matter. A member who does not make such disclosure commits an offence and shall upon conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or both. (2) For the purposes of this Act, “interest” shall be defined as including, but not limited to, that person or members of that person‘s family having direct or indirect ownership of shares or involvement in the funding or management of any entity conducting or funding activities in Tonga or being conducted under Tonga‘s sponsorship, and any direct or indirect benefits. 2020 Revised Edition Page 61; Section 119. Information-handling (1) All records, returns, reports, plans, maps, surveys, cores, samples, assays of samples, accounts and information (for the purposes of this section the “Seabed Minerals Data”) which a Title Holder is or may be from time to time required to furnish under the provisions of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act or a Title shall be supplied at the expense of the Title Holder. (2) The Authority shall not disclose Seabed Minerals Data to any person not in the service or employment of the Crown, except- (a) with the prior written consent of the Title Holder; (b) to the extent necessary in connection with the administration of this Act, as provided in subsection (3), or as prescribed; or (c) after twelve years from the date of receipt or until the expiry of any Title held by the Title Holder for the seabed area to which the Seabed Minerals Data relates, whichever is the longer. (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2), the Authority shall be entitled- (a) to make publicly available, as part of the register of Titles held pursuant to section 34 of this Act, aspects of the Seabed Minerals Data required to be recorded in the Register; (b) to make publicly available any documents required to be disclosed under any Regulations made under this Act, including Annual Reports, Applications and Titles; (c) to prepare and publish reports, statistics and surveys of a general nature using information derived from any of the Seabed Minerals Data; (d) where expedient in furtherance of its accountability function, to share information derived from the Seabed Minerals Data with the public of Tonga, provided that such disclosure would not be unduly prejudicial to the commercial interests of the Title Holder; and Page 62 2020 Revised Edition (e) to make use of the Seabed Minerals Data for the purpose of any arbitration or litigation between the Crown and a Title Holder. (4) Prior to any disclosure or publication under subsection (3) that the Authority considers may prejudice the commercial interests of a Title Holder, the Authority shall consult the Title Holder about the content and shall ensure any comments received from the Title Holder in relation to the intended disclosure or publication are given due consideration before any disclosure or publication occurs. (5) Nothing in this section shall permit disclosure without prior consent by the Authority of Seabed Minerals Data that is confidential under applicable law, including but not limited to, personnel matters, confidential technical or proprietary information and intellectual property relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, and privileged legal material. (6) Any employee or member of the Authority, or any other officer of the Crown who commits an offence in breach of this section, by- (a) disclosing Seabed Minerals Data; or (b) causing the loss of confidentiality of Seabed Minerals Data through reckless act or omission. (7) Any person who commits a breach of the type specified in subsection (6) is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $250,000 or ten years imprisonment.; Section 120. Offence committed by a body corporate Where an offence under this Act that has been committed by a body corporate is committed with the consent or connivance, or is attributable to the neglect, of any Director or officer of the body corporate, that officer as well as the body corporate is guilty of that offence and, in respect of an offence punishable by a fine only, if the court finds that the offence was committed by that person wilfully, recklessly, corruptly or for the purpose of personal gain, that officer is liable to imprisonment for a period of two years.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 139. Obligation de veiller au respect de la convention et; Article 187. Compétence de la chambre pour le règlement des; Article 190. Participation à la procédure et comparution des États
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 139. Responsibility to ensure compliance and liability for damage; Article 153. System of exploration and exploitation; Article 159. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 168. International character of the Secretariat; Article 174. Borrowing power of the Authority; Article 187. Jurisdiction of the Seabed Disputes Chamber; Article 190. Participation and appearance of sponsoring States Parties in proceedings
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.803. Relinquishment and surrender of licenses and permits.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1425. Relinquishment, surrender, and transfer of licenses and permits.; Section 1462. Civil penalties.; Section 1465. Liability of vessels.

isa_institutional_structure (1714)

The International Seabed Authority's organs (Assembly, Council, Legal and Technical Commission, Secretariat, Enterprise): composition, powers, procedure, voting.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify 1. Nothing in these Regulations shall affect the rights and legitimate interests of coastal States under the Convention, including but not limited to article 142. 2. Applicants, contractors, as well as the Enterprise, shall take all necessary measures to ensure that their activities and foreseen activities in the Area are conducted with due regard to the rights and legitimate interests of the [relevant] [potentially affected] coastal States under the Convention and in accordance with applicable regulations and Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. 3. Without prejudice to other necessary measures taken pursuant to paragraph 2, Applicants, contractors or the Enterprise shall engage with potentially affected coastal States, including by conducting consultations, at an early stage including prior to and after submitting an application and throughout the Exploitation Contract, in accordance with these Regulations and the applicable Standards, and taking into account the Guidelines. 4. The potentially affected coastal States referred to in paragraph 3 above shall [include] / [comprise]:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Annex III to the Convention.; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 9. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 10. Preliminary review of application by the Secretary-General 1. The Secretary-General shall preliminarily review an application for approval of a Plan of Work and determine whether the application contains all [the documents regarding] the information required by regulations 5 to 8 for further processing. 2. Where the Secretary-General determines that an application does not contain all the [documents regarding the] information required by regulations 5 to 8, the SecretaryGeneral shall, within 45 Days of receipt of the application, notify the Applicant, specifying the information which the Applicant must submit in order to complete the application. Further processing of an application will not begin until the Secretary General determines that the application is complete, which includes all required information having been submitted by the Applicant, including payment of the administrative fee specified in regulation 86. [2. bis Where the Secretary-General considers that an application contains [the documents regarding] the information required by regulations 5 to 8, it shall circulate to members of the Authority non-confidential information of a general nature regarding the application, and information enabling them to access a non -confidential version of the application.]; Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application 1. The Secretary-General shall, within 7 Days after determining that an application for the approval of a Plan of Work is ready to progress pursuant to regulation 10, [taking into account the confidentiality of the data, place the Environmental Plans and all non confidential parts of Test Mining Report, if applicable submitted, including any supporting material on the Authority’s website for a period of consideration of an application by the Authority, and]consult with all States and Stakeholders in accordance with regulation 93ter on the application[, Environmental Plans and the non-confidential parts of all other documents accompanying the application pursuant to regulation 7]. 2. The Applicant shall consider the comments provided pursuant to paragraph 1 when fulfilling the requirement at regulation 93ter, paragraph 9. The Applicant shall submit any revised documentation and the written response to consultation as required by regulation 93ter, paragraph 9 to the Secretary-General [Alt. 1 within a period of 60 Days following the close of the comment period or such longer period as determined by the Secretary-General following a request by the Applicant. The Secretary-General may extend this time period [for a further 30 Days], upon a reasonable request by the Applicant to revise the plans or responses. Notice of the extension of the period shall be posted on the Authority’s website] [Alt. 2 in a timely manner].; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Section 4. Consideration of an application by the Council; Regulation 16. Consideration and approval of Plans of Work [1. The Council shall [commence at its next meeting considerations of] the reports, recommendations [and the terms and conditions of provided by] the Commission, [Alt. 1 relating to approval of Plans of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement, after due consideration, and within 60 Days unless the Council decides to provide for a longer period, the Council shall approve or disapprove the Plan of Work] [Alt. 2 and shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement ].] [1. Alt. The Council shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement.]; Regulation 17. The Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract 1. An Exploitation Contract can only be terminated:; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 22. Use of Exploitation Contract as security; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 24. Change of Control; Regulation 24 bis. Change of Nationality; Regulation 25. Documents to be submitted prior to [commercial] production; Regulation 25 Alt. Documents to be submitted prior to production; Regulation 26. Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee/Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Regulation 29 ter Certification of origin; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 35. Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage]; Regulation 36. Insurance; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights. ] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Prevention of corruption; Regulation 41. Other Resource categories; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans [1. The Council may request the Commission to prepare a Regional Environmental Management Plan for the regional areas where activities in the Area are likely to take place, for consideration and adoption by the Council.]; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 45. Development of environmental Standards and Guidelines; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 47 bis. Scoping; Regulation 48 bis. [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining; Regulation 50 bis. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 50 ter Environmental Management System; Regulation 51. Compliance with the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 52. Performance assessments of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 54. Establishment of an Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The Authority hereby establishes the Environmental Compensation Fund, referred to as “the ECF” for the purposes of these Regulations.; Regulation 56. Funding of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. Consistent with the polluter-pays principle, the ECF shall consist of a one-time contribution paid by Contractors and/or the Enterprise following the approval of a [Plan of Work] and prior to [Commercial Production] [the commencement of activities under an Exploitation Contract], as well as an annual levy paid to the ECF by Contractors and/or the Enterprise, both as determined by the Authority.; Regulation 57. Modification of a Plan of Work by a Contractor; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 60. Final Closure Plan: Cessation of [Commercial] Production; Regulation 61. [Implementation and Monitoring of the Final Closure Plan] 1. The purpose of Closure monitoring is [to]:; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States ].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 64. Royalty payment A Contractor, from the date of commencement of Commercial Production, shall pay a royalty in respect of the Mineral-bearing ore sold [,during the time of reduction, sold,] or removed without sale from the Contract Area as determined pursuant to paragraph 1 of Section 8 of the Annex to the Agreement in accordance with the applicable Standard. [This regulation is without prejudice to article 11, paragraph 3, of Annex III to the Convention.] Regulation 64bis Equalization measure [A Contractor, from the date that its Plan of Work has been approved, shall pay the equalization measure as determined in accordance with the applicable Standard governing the equalization measure [subject to article 10 of Annex IV to the Convention]. Regulation 64ter Environmental costs The financial terms of a contract shall reflect the environmental externalities of the Exploitation activities permitted under the contract and throughout the value chain. To this end, the Authority shall levy a further royalty reflecting environmental externalities in accordance with regulation 64quat. The further royalty shall complement the royalty provided for in regulation 64.] [Regulation 64 quat. Environmental costs royalties; Regulation 66. Form of royalty returns A royalty return lodged with the Secretary-General shall be in the form prescribed by the applicable Standard and taking into account the Guidelines and signed by the Contractor’s designated official.; Regulation 68. Lodging of royalty returns; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 70. Payment of royalty shown by royalty return; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 72. [Authority may request additional information] [Request for Additional Information] The Secretary-General may, by notice to a Contractor who has lodged a royalty return, request the Contractor to provide, by the date stated in the notice, which shall be no later than 90 Days from the date of the notice, [additional] information to support the matters stated in the royalty return.; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 78. Arm’s-length adjustments 1. For the purposes of this regulation:; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 82. Review of rates of payments; Regulation 84. Annual reporting fee; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Regulation 86. Application fee for approval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 87. Other applicable fees A Contractor shall pay other prescribed fees in respect of any matter specified by the Council, based on the recommendations of the Finance Committee, in accordance with the applicable rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority.; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 91. Data and Information to be submitted upon expiration or termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 22 and Instruments of Transfer or Assignment in accordance with regulation 23;; Regulation 103 and, where applicable, the corresponding improvement plan;; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].; Regulation 93 ter State and Stakeholder Consultation [by an Applicant or Contractor]; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96. The [inspection] / [compliance] mechanism; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the noncompliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection. ] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [Alt. 1 objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Alt. 2 Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with [regulation 35 and] any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary -General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, specifying the date of receipt.]; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Section IV. Financial information; Section V. Undertakings; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 7. Responsibility and liability 7.1 [In accordance with the ‘polluter pays’ principle,] the Contractor shall be liable to the Authority for the actual amount of [all environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising out of activities of the Contractor] / [any damage, including damage to the Marine Environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract [arising out of its wrongful acts [or omissions]] ] [], account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority or third parties. This clause survives the termination of the Contract and applies to all damage [] [arising out of the Contractors wrongful acts [or omissions]] regardless of whether it is caused or arises before, during or after the completion of the Exploitation activities or Contract term. [For the purpose of clauses 7.1 and 7.2, ‘wrongful acts or omissions’, means any unlawful act or omission attributable to the Contractor that results in damage not anticipated and approved in the Plan of Work, irrespective of bad intention or negligence.] [[Recoverable damages under this clause include: costs of reasonable measures to prevent and limit damage to the Marine Environment, lost revenue, reinstatement, pay-out in lieu of actual reinstatement, and/or measures to compensate for third-party economic loss, as well as pure ecological loss and harm to the living resources of the Area.] For the avoidance of doubt, strict liability in this context applies the polluter pays principle, and means, it is not necessary to prove that a Contractor intended to commit or was reckless as to committing a wrongful act or omission, it is necessary only to demonstrate unpermitted damage or harm arose as a result of a Contractor’s wrongful act for the Contractor to be held liable for that damage or harm. ] 7.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any [wrongful] environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising from activities of the Contractor. 7.3 The Authority shall be liable to the Contractor for the actual amount of any damage caused to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] or third parties. 7.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention.; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Section 9. Extension 9.1 20.] [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 9. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 10. Preliminary review of application by the Secretary-General; Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Section 4. Consideration of an application by the Council; Regulation 16. Consideration and approval of Plans of Work [1. The Council shall [commence at its next meeting considerations of] the reports and recommendations of the Commission, [Alt. 1 relating to approval of Plans of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement, after due consideration, and within 60 Days unless the Council decides to provide for a longer period, the Council shall approve or disapprove the Plan of Work] [Alt. 2 and shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement].] [1. Alt. The Council shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement.]; Regulation 17. The Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 22. Use of Exploitation Contract as security; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 24. Change of Control; Regulation 24 bis. Change of Nationality; Regulation 25. Documents to be submitted prior to [commercial] production; Regulation 25 Alt. Documents to be submitted prior to production; Regulation 26 Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee / Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Regulation 29 ter Certification of origin; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 35 Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature][Underwater Cultural Heritage] [1. Exploitation activities in the Area shall be conducted in a way that does not affect human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage].; Regulation 36. Insurance; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights.] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 41. Other Resource categories; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 45. Development of environmental Standards and Guidelines; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 47 bis. Scoping; Regulation 48 bis [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining [1. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor, as the case may be, from conducting Test Mining before the submission of a Plan of Work for Exploitation.] [1.Alt. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor from conducting Test Mining and Pilot Mining.]; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 51. Closure Plan; Regulation 51 bis. Implementation and Monitoring of the Closure Plan; Regulation 52. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 54. Establishment of an Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The Authority hereby establishes the Environmental Compensation Fund, referred to as “the ECF” for the purposes of these Regulations.; Regulation 56. Funding of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. Consistent with the polluter-pays principle, the ECF shall consist of a one-time contribution paid by Contractors and/or the Enterprise following the approval of a [Plan of Work] and prior to [Commercial Production] [the commencement of activities under an Exploitation Contract], as well as an annual levy paid to the ECF by Contractors and/or the Enterprise, both as determined by the Authority.; Regulation 57. Modification of a Plan of Work; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 64. Royalty payment A Contractor, from the date of commencement of Commercial Production, shall pay a royalty in respect of the Mineral-bearing ore sold [,during the time of reduction, sold,] or removed without sale from the Contract Area as determined pursuant to paragraph 1 of Section 8 of the Annex to the Agreement in accordance with the applicable Standard. [This regulation is without prejudice to article 11, paragraph 3, of Annex III to the Convention.] Regulation 64bis Equalization measure [A Contractor, from the date that its Plan of Work has been approved, shall pay the equalization measure as determined in accordance with the applicable Standard governing the equalization measure [subject to article 10 of Annex IV to the Convention]. Regulation 64ter Environmental costs The financial terms of a contract shall reflect the environmental externalities of the Exploitation activities permitted under the contract and throughout the value chain. To this end, the Authority shall levy a further royalty reflecting environmental externalities in accordance with regulation 64quat. The further royalty shall complement the royalty provided for in regulation 64.] [Regulation 64 quat. Environmental costs royalties; Regulation 66. Form of royalty returns A royalty return lodged with the Secretary-General shall be in the form prescribed by the applicable Standard and taking into account the Guidelines and signed by the Contractor’s designated official.; Regulation 68. Lodging of royalty returns; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 70. Payment of royalty shown by royalty return; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 72. [Authority may request additional information] [Request for Additional Information] The Secretary-General may, by notice to a Contractor who has lodged a royalty return, request the Contractor to provide, by the date stated in the notice, which shall be no later than 90 Days from the date of the notice, [additional] information to support the matters stated in the royalty return.; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 78. Arm’s-length adjustments; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 82. Review of rates of payments; Regulation 84. Annual reporting fee; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Regulation 86. Application fee for approval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 87. Other applicable fees A Contractor shall pay other prescribed fees in respect of any matter specified by the Council, based on the recommendations of the Finance Committee, in accordance with the applicable rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority.; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 91 Data and Information to be submitted upon expiration or termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 93 ter State and Stakeholder Consultation [by an Applicant or Contractor]; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96. The [inspection] / [compliance] mechanism [[]]; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the non-compliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection.] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with Regulation 35 and any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary-General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary-General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, [], specifying the date of receipt.]; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the conclusion of the first Exploitation Contract]/[Alt. 2 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also undertake additional reviews [to the extent necessary] at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall undertake a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Section IV. Financial information; Section V. Undertakings; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 7. Responsibility and liability 7.1 [In accordance with the ‘polluter pays’ principle,] the Contractor shall be liable to the Authority for the actual amount of [all environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising out of activities of the Contractor] / [any damage, including damage to the Marine Environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract [arising out of its wrongful acts [or omissions]]] [], account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority or third parties. This clause survives the termination of the Contract and applies to all damage [] [arising out of the Contractors wrongful acts [or omissions]] regardless of whether it is caused or arises before, during or after the completion of the Exploitation activities or Contract term. [For the purpose of clauses 7.1 and 7.2, ‘wrongful acts or omissions’, means any unlawful act or omission attributable to the Contractor that results in damage not anticipated and approved in the Plan of Work, irrespective of bad intention or negligence.] [[Recoverable damages under this clause include: costs of reasonable measures to prevent and limit damage to the Marine Environment, lost revenue, reinstatement, pay-out in lieu of actual reinstatement, and/or measures to compensate for third-party economic loss, as well as pure ecological loss and harm to the living resources of the Area.] For the avoidance of doubt, strict liability in this context applies the polluter pays principle, and means, it is not necessary to prove that a Contractor intended to commit or was reckless as to committing a wrongful act or omission, it is necessary only to demonstrate unpermitted damage or harm arose as a result of a Contractor’s wrongful act for the Contractor to be held liable for that damage or harm.] 7.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any [wrongful] environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising from activities of the Contractor. 7.3 The Authority shall be liable to the Contractor for the actual amount of any damage caused to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] or third parties. 7.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention.; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Section 9. Extension 9.1 [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation 20.] [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 25; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 6. Rapport annuel; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 8. Objets ayant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le prospecteur notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte dans la Zone d’objets ayant ou susceptibles d’avoir un caractère archéologique ou historique et leur emplacement. Le Secrétaire général en avise le Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture.; Article 9. Dispositions générales Sous réserve des dispositions de la Convention, les entités ci-après peuvent présenter à l’Autorité des demandes d’approbation de plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration : a) L’Entreprise, en son nom propre, ou dans le cadre d’un accord de coentreprise;; Article 10. Forme des demandes; Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Superficie totale de la zone visée par la demande; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 14. Précédents contrats avec l’Autorité Si le demandeur ou, lorsque la demande émane d’une association ou d’un consortium d’entités liées entre elles par un accord de coentreprise, si un membre de l’association ou du consortium a précédemment obtenu un contrat de l’Autorité, sont indiqués dans la demande : a) La date du contrat ou des contrats précédents;; Article 15. Engagements Dans sa demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration, tout demandeur, y compris l’Entreprise, s’engage par écrit vis-à-vis de l’Autorité à : a) Accepter comme exécutoires et respecter les obligations qui lui incombent en vertu de la Convention et des règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, des décisions des organes de l’Autorité et des clauses des contrats qu’il a conclus avec celle-ci;; Article 17. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 18. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 19. Participation au capital d’une entreprise conjointe; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 21. Droit afférent aux demandes; Article 22. Réception, accusé de réception et garde des demandes Le Secrétaire général : a) Accuse réception par écrit, dans les 30 jours de sa réception, de toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration soumis conformément à la présente Partie, en spécifiant la date de la réception;; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 24. Examen et approbation par le Conseil des plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration Le Conseil examine les rapports et recommandations de la Commission juridique et technique concernant l’approbation des plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration, conformément aux paragraphes 11 et 12 de la section 3 de l’annexe de l’Accord.; Article 25. Le contrat; Article 26. Droits du contractant; Article 27. Superficie du secteur et restitution; Article 28. Durée des contrats; Article 29. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 30. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 31. Cessation du patronage; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 34. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 36. Droits des États côtiers; Article 37. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, et leur emplacement, ainsi que toute mesure de conservation ou de protection qu’il a prise. Le Secrétaire général transmet immédiatement ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 38. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 39. Protection de la confidentialité; Article 40. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Article 41. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 42. Différends; Article 43. Ressources autres que les encroûtements cobaltifères Si un prospecteur ou un contractant trouve dans la Zone des ressources autres que des encroûtements cobaltifères, la prospection, l’exploration et l’exploitation de ces ressources sont soumises aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité concernant ces ressources, conformément à la Convention et à l’Accord. Le prospecteur ou le contractant notifie sa découverte à l’Autorité.; Article 44. Révision; Section II. Informations relatives à la zone visée par la demande; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Section V. Engagements; Section VI. Contrats antérieurs; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article I. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au Contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 2. Garantie du titre 2.1 Le Contractant a la garantie du titre et le présent contrat ne peut être suspendu, résilié ou révisé que conformément à ses articles 20, 21 et 24. 2.2 Le Contractant a le droit exclusif d’explorer les encroûtements cobaltifères dans la zone d’exploration conformément aux clauses du présent contrat. L’Autorité veille à ce qu’aucune autre entité n’exerce dans la même zone des activités portant sur une catégorie différente de ressources d’une façon qui puisse gêner outre mesure celles que mène le Contractant. 2.3 Le Contractant a le droit, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, de renoncer à tout moment à tout ou partie de ses droits sur la zone d’exploration sans encourir de pénalité étant entendu qu’il demeure tenu de toutes les obligations qu’il a contractées avant la date de cette renonciation en ce qui concerne la zone à laquelle il renonce. 2.4 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être considérée comme conférant au Contractant d’autres droits que ceux qui y sont expressément prévus. L’Autorité se réserve le droit de conclure avec des tiers des contrats concernant les ressources autres que les encroûtements cobaltifères de la zone visée par le présent contrat.; Article 3. Durée du contrat 3.1 Le présent contrat entrera en vigueur à la date de sa signature par les deux parties et restera en vigueur pendant une période de quinze ans à compter de cette date à moins : a) Que le Contractant n’obtienne un contrat d’exploitation dans la zone d’exploration entrant en vigueur avant l’expiration de la période de 15 ans; ou; Article 4. Exploration 4.1 Le Contractant entreprend l’exploration conformément au calendrier arrêté dans le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat et respecte ce calendrier ou toute modification y afférente comme il est prévu par le présent contrat. 4.2 Le Contractant exécute le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat. Ce faisant, pour chaque année du contrat, il consacre aux dépenses effectives et directes d’exploration un montant au moins équivalant à celui qui est prévu dans le programme considéré ou dans toute modification y afférente. 4.3 Le Contractant peut, avec le consentement de l’Autorité, que celle-ci ne peut refuser sans motif raisonnable, apporter de temps à autre au programme d’activités et aux dépenses qui y sont prévues les modifications pouvant être nécessaires et prudentes selon la bonne pratique de l’industrie minière et compte tenu de la situation sur le marché des métaux que renferment les encroûtements cobaltifères et de la situation économique générale. 4.4 Le Contractant et le Secrétaire général procèdent conjointement à l’examen des résultats des activités d’exploration menées en vertu du présent contrat, au plus tard 90 jours avant l’expiration de chaque période de cinq ans à compter de la date d’entrée en vigueur prévue à l’article 3. Le Secrétaire général peut exiger du Contractant qu’il lui communique les données et informations supplémentaires pouvant être nécessaires pour cet examen. À l’issue de cet examen, le Contractant apporte à son plan de travail les ajustements nécessaires, indique son programme d’activités pour la période de cinq ans suivante, y compris un calendrier révisé des dépenses annuelles qu’il prévoit. L’annexe 2 est modifiée en conséquence.; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le Contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le Contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 7. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le Contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, et leur emplacement, ainsi que toute mesure de conservation ou de protection qu’il a prise. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.; Article 10. Rapports annuels 10.1 Le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général, au plus tard 90 jours après la fin de chaque année civile, un rapport, sous la forme recommandée de temps à autre par la Commission juridique et technique, sur les activités qu’il a menées dans la zone d’exploration comportant, le cas échéant, des renseignements suffisamment détaillés sur : a) Les activités d’exploration menées au cours de l’année civile, y compris les cartes, diagrammes et graphiques illustrant les travaux effectués et les résultats obtenus;; Article 11. Données et informations à présenter à l’expiration du contrat 11.1 Le Contractant communique à l’Autorité toutes données et informations pertinentes qui lui sont nécessaires pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration, conformément aux dispositions du présent article. 11.2 À l’expiration ou à la résiliation du présent contrat, le Contractant, s’il ne l’a pas encore fait, présente au Secrétaire général les données et informations ci-après : a) Copie de toutes les données géologiques, environnementales, géochimiques et géophysiques pertinentes qu’il a acquises au cours de l’exécution du programme d’activités et qui sont nécessaires à l’Autorité pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration;; Article 12. Confidentialité Les données et informations qui sont communiquées à l’Autorité en vertu du présent contrat sont considérées comme confidentielles conformément aux dispositions du Règlement.; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le Contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le Contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le Contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés conformément en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout Contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination en matière d’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceuxci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le Contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le Contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le Contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le Contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le Contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le Contractant ni une entreprise apparentée ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent d’aucune manière faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les encroûtements cobaltifères se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du Contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le Contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 19. Renonciation Le Contractant peut, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, renoncer à ses droits et résilier le présent contrat sans encourir de pénalité, étant toutefois entendu qu’il reste en ce cas tenu par toutes les obligations qu’il aura pu contracter avant la date de cette renonciation et par celles qui lui incombent après la résiliation en application du Règlement.; Article 20. Cessation du patronage 20.1 Si la nationalité du Contractant ou l’entité qui le contrôle change ou si l’État qui le patronne, tel qu’il est défini dans le Règlement, met fin à son patronage, le Contractant en informe l’Autorité sans délai. 20.2 Dans l’un et l’autre cas, si le Contractant n’obtient pas d’un autre patron réunissant les conditions prescrites par le Règlement qu’il présente à l’Autorité un certificat de patronage sous la forme prescrite et dans les délais fixés par le Règlement, le présent contrat prend immédiatement fin.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 22. Cession des droits et obligations 22.1 Les droits et obligations du Contractant au titre du présent contrat ne peuvent être cédés en tout ou partie qu’avec le consentement de l’Autorité et conformément au Règlement. 22.2 L’Autorité ne refuse pas sans motifs suffisants son consentement à la cession si le cessionnaire proposé est, à tous égards, un demandeur qualifié au regard du Règlement et assume toutes les obligations du Contractant. 22.3 Les clauses, engagements et conditions prévus par le présent contrat sont à l’avantage des parties et de leurs ayants droit et cessionnaires respectifs, et ont force obligatoire envers eux.; Article 24. Révision 24.1 Lorsqu’il se présente ou qu’il pourrait se présenter des circonstances qui, de l’avis de l’Autorité ou du Contractant, auraient pour effet de rendre le présent contrat inéquitable ou de compromettre ou d’empêcher la réalisation des objectifs prévus par celui-ci ou par la partie XI de la Convention ou par l’Accord, les parties engagent des négociations en vue de réviser ledit contrat en conséquence. 24.2 Le présent contrat peut également être révisé par accord entre le Contractant et l’Autorité afin de faciliter l’application de règles, règlements et procédures adoptés par l’Autorité après l’entrée en vigueur du présent contrat. 24.3 Le présent contrat ne peut être révisé, amendé ou autrement modifié qu’avec le consentement du Contractant et de l’Autorité exprimé dans un instrument approprié signé par les représentants autorisés des parties.; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 En application de l’article 21 2) de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du Contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État partie à la Convention affecté par elle.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du Contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un document électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins dix jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un courrier électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du Contractant vaut notification au Contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du Contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.; Article 27. Droit applicable 27.1 Le présent contrat est régi par ses dispositions, les règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, la partie XI de la Convention, l’Accord et les autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 27.2 Le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes les personnes travaillant ou agissant pour eux dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat observent le droit applicable visé à l’article 27.1 ci-dessus et ne se livrent directement ou indirectement à aucune transaction interdite par ce droit. 27.3 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être interprétée comme dispensant de la nécessité de demander et d’obtenir le permis ou l’autorisation pouvant être requis pour l’une quelconque des activités prévues par le présent contrat.
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 8. Объекты, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Изыскатель незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в Районе любого объекта, имеющего фактическое или потенциальное археологическое или историческое значение, и о его местонахождении. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры.; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 10. Форма заявок; Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 13. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 14. Предыдущие контракты с Органом Если заявитель или — в случае представления заявки партнерством или консорциумом субъектов, осуществляющих деятельность совместно, — любой участник партнерства или консорциума ранее заключал какой-либо контракт с Органом, в заявке указывается: a) дата предыдущего контракта (контрактов);; Правило 15. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений соответствующих органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 19. Доля в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Правило 22. Получение, подтверждение и хранение заявок Генеральный секретарь: a) в течение 30 дней в письменном виде подтверждает получение каждой заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке, представленной согласно настоящей части, с указанием даты получения;; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 24. Рассмотрение и утверждение Советом планов работы по разведке Совет рассматривает доклады и рекомендации Юридической и технической комиссии, касающиеся утверждения планов работы по разведке, в соответствии с пунктами 11 и 12 раздела 3 приложения к Соглашению.; Правило 25. Контракт; Правило 26. Права контрактора; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 28. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 29. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 приложения III Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Правило 30. Периодический обзор осуществления плана работы по разведке; Правило 31. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 32. Ответственность Материальная и иная ответственность контрактора и Органа регулируется Конвенцией. Контрактор продолжает нести ответственность за любой ущерб, причиненный в результате неправомерных действий, допущенных им при осуществлении своей деятельности, в частности ущерб морской среде, по окончании этапа разведки.; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 37. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь незамедлительно препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисково-разведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 38. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 39. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Правило 40. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Правило 41. Рекомендации, призванные сориентировать контракторов; Правило 42. Споры; Правило 43. Ресурсы помимо кобальтовых корок Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо кобальтовых корок, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Правило 44. Обзор; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информация; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел V. Обязательства; Раздел VI. Предыдущие контракты; Раздел VII. Добавления; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » ______________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Добавление 3 [Программа подготовки кадров становится добавлением к контракту после утверждения Органом в соответствии с разделом 8 стандартных условий.]; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 12. Конфиденциальность Переданные Органу в соответствии с настоящим контрактом данные и информация рассматриваются как конфиденциальные в соответствии с положениями Правил.; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 16. Ответственность; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно кобальтовых корок в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 22. Передача прав и обязательств; Раздел 24. Пересмотр; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第6条年度报告; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条申请书涵盖的总区域; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第14条以前同管理局订立的合同如果申请者，或在申请是联合安排中由实体组成的合伙企业或联营企业提出时，任何合伙者或联营者，以前曾同管理局订立任何合同，则申请书应载列：; 第15条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，各申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第17条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第21条申请费; 第22条申请书的收受、确认和妥善保管秘书长应：; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第24条理事会对勘探工作计划的审议和核准理事会应按照《协定》附件第 3 节第 11 和第 12 段的规定审议法律和技术委员会关于核准勘探工作计划的报告和建议。; 第25条合同; 第26条承包者的权利; 第27条区域面积和放弃; 第28条合同期限; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同所涉所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第31条担保的终止; 第32条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第37条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应立即将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，在理事会考虑到联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事或任何其他主管国际组织的意见后另有决定之前，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探。; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第39条确保机密性的程序; 第40条通知和一般程序; 第41条指导承包者的建议; 第42条争端; 第43条钴结壳以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现钴结壳以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 6. Annual report; Regulation 7. Confidentiality of data and information from prospecting contained in the annual report; Regulation 8. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature A prospector shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the Area of an object of actual or potential archaeological or historical nature and its location. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 15. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 17. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 19. Equity interest in a joint venture arrangement; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 21. Fee for applications; Regulation 22. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 24. Consideration and approval of plans of work for exploration by the Council The Council shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Legal and Technical Commission relating to approval of plans of work for exploration in accordance with paragraphs 11 and 12 of section 3 of the annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 25. The contract; Regulation 26. Rights of the contractor; Regulation 27. Size of area and relinquishment; Regulation 28. Duration of contracts; Regulation 30. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 31. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 37. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall immediately transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Regulation 38. Confidentiality of data and information; Regulation 39. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 40. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 41. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 44. Review; Section II. Information relating to the area under application; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section V. Undertakings; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Section 4. Exploration 4.1 The Contractor shall commence exploration in accordance with the time schedule stipulated in the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto and shall adhere to such time periods or any modification thereto as provided for by this contract. 4.2 The Contractor shall carry out the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto. In carrying out such activities the Contractor shall spend in each contract year not less than the amount specified in such programme, or any agreed review thereof, in actual and direct exploration expenditures. 4.3 The Contractor, with the consent of the Authority, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, may from time to time make such changes in the programme of activities and the expenditures specified therein as may be necessary and prudent in accordance with good mining industry practice, and taking into account the market conditions for the metals contained in cobalt crusts and other relevant global economic conditions. 4.4 Not later than 90 days prior to the expiration of each five-year period from the date on which this contract enters into force in accordance with section 3 hereof, the Contractor and the Secretary-General shall jointly undertake a review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration under this contract. The Secretary-General may require the Contractor to submit such additional data and information as may be necessary for the purposes of the review. In the light of the review, the Contractor shall make such adjustments to its plan of work as are 38 12-57345 necessary and shall indicate its programme of activities for the following five-year period, including a revised schedule of anticipated yearly expenditures. Schedule 2 hereto shall be adjusted accordingly.; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 7. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The Contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall 40 12-57345 transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 11. Data and information to be submitted on expiration of the contract 11.1 The Contractor shall transfer to the Authority all data and information that are both necessary for and relevant to the effective exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority in respect of the exploration area in accordance with the provisions of this section. 11.2 Upon expiration or termination of this contract the Contractor, if it has not already done so, shall submit the following data and information to the SecretaryGeneral:; Section 13. Undertakings 13.1 The Contractor shall carry out exploration in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, the Regulations, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 13.2 The Contractor undertakes:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, fax, registered airmail or e-mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an electronic document containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by fax shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published fax number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An e-mail is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 25; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 6. Rapport annuel; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 8. Objets ayant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le prospecteur notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte dans la Zone d’objets ayant ou susceptibles d’avoir un caractère archéologique ou historique et leur emplacement. Le Secrétaire général en avise le Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture.; Article 9. Dispositions générales Sous réserve des dispositions de la Convention, les entités ci-après peuvent présenter à l’Autorité des demandes d’approbation de plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration : a) L’Entreprise, en son nom propre, ou dans le cadre d’un accord de coentreprise;; Article 10. Forme des demandes; Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Capacité financière et technique; Article 13. Précédents contrats avec l’Autorité Si le demandeur ou, lorsque la demande émane d’une association ou d’un consortium d’entités liées entre elles par un accord de coentreprise, si un membre de l’association ou du consortium a précédemment obtenu un contrat de l’Autorité, sont indiqués dans la demande : a) La date du contrat ou des contrats antérieurs;; Article 14. Engagements Dans sa demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration, tout demandeur, y compris l’Entreprise, s’engage par écrit vis-à-vis de l’Autorité à : a) Accepter comme exécutoires et respecter les obligations qui lui incombent en vertu de la Convention et des règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, des décisions des organes de l’Autorité et des clauses des contrats qu’il a conclus avec celle-ci;; Article 15. Superficie totale de la zone visée par la demande Toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration doit délimiter, conformément aux normes internationales généralement acceptées les plus récentes utilisées par l’Autorité, la zone qu’elle vise en en indiquant la liste des coordonnées géographiques. Les demandes autres que celles présentées en vertu de l’article 17 doivent couvrir une zone, pas nécessairement d’un seul tenant, ayant une superficie totale et une valeur commerciale estimative suffisantes pour permettre deux opérations d’extraction minière. Le demandeur indique les coordonnées permettant de diviser la zone en deux parties de valeur commerciale estimative égale. L’attribution de zones est subordonnée aux dispositions de l’article 25.; Article 16. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 17. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 18. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration Tout demandeur soumet, en vue d’obtenir l’approbation de son plan de travail relatif à l’exploration sous la forme d’un contrat, les informations suivantes : a) La description générale et le calendrier du programme d’exploration proposé, y compris le programme d’activités pour les cinq années à venir, tels que les études à réaliser concernant les facteurs écologiques, techniques, économiques et autres facteurs appropriés à prendre en compte pour l’exploration;; Article 19. Droit afférent aux demandes; Article 20. Réception, accusé de réception et garde des demandes Le Secrétaire général : a) Accuse réception par écrit, dans les 30 jours de sa réception, de toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration soumis conformément à la présente partie, en spécifiant la date de la réception;; Article 21. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 22. Examen et approbation par le Conseil des plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration Le Conseil examine les rapports et recommandations de la Commission concernant l’approbation des plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration, conformément aux paragraphes 11 et 12 de la section 3 de l’annexe de l’Accord.; Article 23. Le contrat; Article 24. Droits du contractant; Article 25. Superficie du secteur et restitution; Article 26. Durée des contrats; Article 27. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 28. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 29. Cessation du patronage; Article 30. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 31. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 32. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 33. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 34. Droits des États côtiers; Article 35. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique et leur emplacement, ainsi que les mesures de conservation et de protection qu’il a prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 36. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 37. Protection de la confidentialité; Article 38. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Article 39. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 40. Différends; Article 41. Ressources autres que les nodules polymétalliques Si un prospecteur ou un contractant trouve dans la Zone des ressources autres que des nodules polymétalliques, la prospection, l’exploration et l’exploitation de ces ressources sont soumises aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité concernant ces ressources, conformément à la Convention et à l’Accord. Le prospecteur ou le contractant notifie sa découverte à l’Autorité.; Article 42. Révision; Section II. Informations relatives à la zone visée par la demande; Section III. Informations financières et techniquesa; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Section V. Engagements; Section VI. Contrats antérieurs; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 1. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 2. Garantie du titre 2.1 Le contractant a la garantie du titre et le présent contrat ne peut être suspendu, résilié ou révisé que conformément à ses articles 20, 21 et 24. 2.2 Le contractant a le droit exclusif d’explorer les nodules polymétalliques dans la zone d’exploration conformément aux clauses du présent contrat. L’Autorité veille à ce qu’aucune autre entité n’exerce dans la même zone des activités portant sur une catégorie différente de ressources d’une façon qui puisse gêner outre mesure celles que mène le contractant. 2.3 Le contractant a le droit, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, de renoncer à tout moment à tout ou partie de ses droits sur la zone d’exploration sans encourir de pénalité étant entendu qu’il demeure tenu de toutes les obligations qu’il a contractées avant la date de cette renonciation en ce qui concerne la zone à laquelle il renonce. 2.4 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être considérée comme conférant au contractant d’autres droits que ceux qui y sont expressément prévus. L’Autorité se réserve le droit de conclure avec des tiers des contrats concernant les ressources autres que les nodules polymétalliques de la zone visée par le présent contrat.; Article 3. Durée du contrat 3.1 Le présent contrat prendra effet à la date de sa signature par les deux parties et restera en vigueur pendant une période de 15 ans à compter de cette date à moins : a) Que le contractant n’obtienne un contrat d’exploitation dans la zone d’exploration entrant en vigueur avant l’expiration de la période de 15 ans; ou; Article 4. Exploration 4.1 Le contractant entreprend l’exploration conformément au calendrier arrêté dans le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat et respecte ce calendrier ou toute modification y afférente comme il est prévu par le présent contrat. 4.2 Le contractant exécute le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat. Ce faisant, pour chaque année du contrat, il consacre aux dépenses effectives et directes d’exploration un montant au moins équivalent à celui qui est prévu dans le programme considéré ou dans toute modification y afférente. 4.3 Le contractant peut, avec le consentement de l’Autorité, que celle-ci ne peut refuser sans motif raisonnable, apporter de temps à autre au programme d’activités et aux dépenses qui y sont prévues les modifications pouvant être nécessaires et prudentes selon la bonne pratique de l’industrie minière et compte tenu de la situation sur le marché des métaux que renferment les nodules polymétalliques et de la situation économique générale. 4.4 Le contractant et le Secrétaire général procèdent conjointement à l’examen des résultats des activités d’exploration menées en vertu du présent contrat, au plus tard 90 jours avant l’expiration de chaque période de cinq ans à compter de la date d’entrée en vigueur prévue à l’article 3. Le Secrétaire général peut exiger du contractant qu’il lui communique les données et informations supplémentaires pouvant être nécessaires pour cet examen. À l’issue de cet examen, le contractant apporte à son plan de travail les ajustements nécessaires, indique son programme d’activités pour la période de cinq ans suivante, y compris un calendrier révisé des dépenses annuelles qu’il prévoit. L’annexe 2 est modifiée en conséquence.; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 7. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, et leur emplacement, ainsi que les mesures de conservation et de protection qu’il a prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le contractant. 8.3 Le contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.; Article 10. Rapports annuels 10.1 Le contractant soumet au Secrétaire général, au plus tard 90 jours après la fin de chaque année civile, un rapport, sous la forme recommandée de temps à autre par la Commission juridique et technique, sur les activités qu’il a menées dans la zone d’exploration comportant, le cas échéant, des renseignements suffisamment détaillés sur : a) Les activités d’exploration menées au cours de l’année civile, y compris les cartes, diagrammes et graphiques illustrant les travaux effectués et les résultats obtenus;; Article 11. Données et informations à présenter à l’expiration du contrat 11.1 Le contractant communique à l’Autorité toutes données et informations pertinentes qui lui sont nécessaires pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration, conformément aux dispositions du présent article. 11.2 À l’expiration ou à la résiliation du présent contrat, le contractant, s’il ne l’a pas encore fait, présente au Secrétaire général les données et informations ci-après : a) Copie de toutes les données géologiques, environnementales, géochimiques et géophysiques pertinentes qu’il a acquises au cours de l’exécution du programme d’activités et qui sont nécessaires à l’Autorité pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration;; Article 12. Confidentialité Les données et informations qui sont communiquées à l’Autorité en vertu du présent contrat sont considérées comme confidentielles conformément aux dispositions du Règlement.; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination dans l’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le contractant, ni une entreprise apparentée, ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les nodules polymétalliques se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 19. Renonciation Le contractant peut, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, renoncer à ses droits et résilier le présent contrat sans encourir de pénalité, étant toutefois entendu qu’il reste en ce cas tenu par toutes les obligations qu’il aura pu contracter avant la date de cette renonciation et par celles qui lui incombent après la résiliation en application du Règlement.; Article 20. Cessation du patronage 20.1 Si la nationalité du contractant ou l’entité qui le contrôle change ou si l’État qui le patronne, tel qu’il est défini dans le Règlement, met fin à son patronage, le contractant en informe l’Autorité sans délai. 20.2 Dans l’un et l’autre cas, si le contractant n’obtient pas d’un autre patron réunissant les conditions prescrites par le Règlement qu’il présente à l’Autorité un certificat de patronage sous la forme prescrite et dans les délais fixés par le Règlement, le présent contrat prend immédiatement fin.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 22. Cession des droits et obligations 22.1 Les droits et obligations du contractant au titre du présent contrat ne peuvent être cédés en tout ou partie qu’avec le consentement de l’Autorité et conformément au Règlement. 22.2 L’Autorité ne refuse pas sans motifs suffisants son consentement à la cession si le cessionnaire proposé est, à tous égards, un demandeur qualifié au regard du Règlement et assume toutes les obligations du contractant, et si le transfert n’a pas pour résultat de lui faire attribuer un plan de travail dont l’approbation serait interdite en vertu de l’article 6 3) c) de l’annexe III de la Convention. 22.3 Les clauses, engagements et conditions prévus par le présent contrat sont à l’avantage des parties et de leurs ayants droit et cessionnaires respectifs, et ont force obligatoire envers eux.; Article 24. Révision 24.1 Lorsqu’il se présente ou qu’il pourrait se présenter des circonstances qui, de l’avis de l’Autorité ou du contractant, auraient pour effet de rendre le présent contrat inéquitable ou de compromettre ou d’empêcher la réalisation des objectifs prévus par celui-ci ou par la partie XI de la Convention ou par l’Accord, les parties engagent des négociations en vue de réviser ledit contrat en conséquence. 24.2 Le présent contrat peut également être révisé par accord entre le contractant et l’Autorité afin de faciliter l’application de règles, règlements et procédures adoptés par l’Autorité après l’entrée en vigueur du présent contrat. 24.3 Le présent contrat ne peut être révisé, amendé ou autrement modifié qu’avec le consentement du contractant et de l’Autorité exprimé dans un instrument approprié signé par les représentants autorisés des parties.; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 En application de l’article 21 2) de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État partie à la Convention affecté par elle.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un courrier électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins 10 jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un courrier électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du contractant vaut notification au contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.; Article 27. Droit applicable 27.1 Le présent contrat est régi par ses dispositions, les règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, la partie XI de la Convention, l’Accord et les autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 27.2 Le contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes les personnes travaillant ou agissant pour eux dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat observent le droit applicable visé à l’article 27.1 ci-dessus et ne se livrent directement ou indirectement à aucune transaction interdite par ce droit. 27.3 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être interprétée comme dispensant de la nécessité de demander et d’obtenir le permis ou l’autorisation pouvant être requis pour l’une quelconque des activités prévues par le présent contrat.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 8. Объекты, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Изыскатель незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в Районе любого объекта, имеющего фактическое или потенциальное археологическое или историческое значение, и о его местонахождении. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры.; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 10. Форма заявок; Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 13. Предыдущие контракты с Органом Если заявитель или — в случае представления заявки партнерством или консорциумом субъектов, осуществляющих деятельность совместно, — любой участник партнерства или консорциума ранее заключал какой-либо контракт с Органом, в заявке указывается: a) дата предыдущего контракта (контрактов);; Правило 14. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 15. Целый район, указанный в заявке В каждой заявке на утверждение плана работы по разведке определяются границы заявочного района с помощью перечня географических координат, указанных в соответствии с наиболее свежим общепринятым международным стандартом, используемым Органом. В заявках (кроме заявок, подаваемых согласно правилу 17) указывается целый район, который не обязательно является единым непрерывным районом, но достаточно обширным и имеющим достаточную предположительную коммерческую ценность, чтобы позволить ведение двух операций по добыче. Заявитель указывает координаты, разделяющие район на две части одинаковой предположительной коммерческой ценности. Район, выделяемый заявителю, регулируется положениями правила 25.; Правило 16. Данные и информация, представленные до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 17. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке Каждый заявитель в целях утверждения плана работы по разведке в форме контракта представляет следующую информацию: a) общее описание и график предлагаемой программы разведки, включая программу деятельности на ближайший пятилетний период, как то запланированные исследования в отношении экологических, технических, экономических и прочих соответствующих факторов, которые должны учитываться при разведке;; Правило 19. Сбор за заявку; Правило 20. Получение, подтверждение и хранение заявок Генеральный секретарь: a) в письменном виде в течение 30 дней подтверждает получение каждой заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке, представленной согласно настоящей части, с указанием даты получения;; Правило 21. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 22. Рассмотрение и утверждение Советом планов работы по разведке Совет рассматривает доклады и рекомендации Комиссии, касающиеся утверждения планов работы по разведке, в соответствии с пунктами 11 и 12 раздела 3 приложения к Соглашению.; Правило 23. Контракт; Правило 24. Права контрактора; Правило 25. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 26. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 27. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 Приложения III Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Правило 28. Периодический обзор осуществления плана работы по разведке; Правило 29. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 30. Ответственность Материальная и иная ответственность контрактора и Органа регулируется Конвенцией. Контрактор продолжает нести ответственность за любой ущерб, причиненный в результате неправомерных действий, допущенных им при осуществлении своей деятельности, в частности ущерб морской среде, по окончании этапа разведки.; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 32. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 33. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 34. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 35. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 36. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 37. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Правило 38. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Правило 39. Рекомендации, призванные сориентировать контракторов; Правило 40. Споры; Правило 41. Ресурсы помимо полиметаллических конкреций Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо полиметаллических конкреций, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Правило 42. Обзор; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информацияa; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел V. Обязательства; Раздел VI. Предыдущие контракты; Раздел VII. Добавления; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИМ КОНТРАКТОМ, заключенным «___» ____________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТСЯ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Добавление 3 [Программа подготовки кадров становится добавлением к контракту после утверждения Органом в соответствии с разделом 8 стандартных условий]; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 12. Конфиденциальность Переданные Органу в соответствии с настоящим контрактом данные и информация рассматриваются как конфиденциальные в соответствии с положениями Правил.; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 16. Ответственность; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических конкреций в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащую государству организацию, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства; Раздел 21. Приостановление или прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 22. Передача прав и обязательств; Раздел 24. Пересмотр; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的考虑; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第6条年度报告; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条财政和技术能力; 第13条以前同管理局订立的合同如果申请者，或在申请是联合安排中由实体组成的合伙企业或联营企业提出时，任何合伙者或联营者以前曾同管理局订立任何合同，则申请书应包括：; 第14条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，每个申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第15条申请的总区域每一份请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书应以符合管理局采用的最新公认国际标准的坐标表界定所申请区域的界限。除了第 17 条下的申请外，申请应包括一个总区域，它不必是一个单一连续的区域，但应足够大，并有足够的估计商业价值，可供从事两起采矿作业。申请者应列明坐标，将该区域分为估计商业价值相等的两个部分。分配给申请者的区域应受第 25 条各项规定的限制。; 第16条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第17条请求核准保留区工作计划的申请; 第18条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料为了使合同形式的勘探工作计划获得核准，每一申请者应提交下列资料：; 第19条申请费; 第20条申请书的收受、确认和妥善保管; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第22条理事会对勘探工作计划的审议和核准理事会应按照《协定》附件第 3 节第 11 和第 12 段的规定审议委员会关于核准勘探工作计划的报告和建议。; 第23条合同; 第24条承包者的权利; 第25条区域面积和放弃; 第26条合同期限; 第27条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第28条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第29条担保的终止; 第30条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第32条环境基线和监测; 第33条紧急命令; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第35条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应立即将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，在理事会考虑到联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事或任何其他主管国际组织的意见后另有决定之前，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探。; 第36条数据和资料的机密性; 第37条确保机密性的程序; 第38条通知和一般程序; 第39条指导承包者的建议; 第40条争端; 第41条多金属结核以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属结核以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 6. Annual report; Regulation 7. Confidentiality of data and information from prospecting contained in the annual report; Regulation 8. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature A prospector shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the Area of an object of actual or potential archaeological or historical nature and its location. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 12. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 14. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 16. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 17. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 18. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration Each applicant shall submit, with a view to receiving approval of the plan of work for exploration in the form of a contract, the following information:; Regulation 19. Fee for applications; Regulation 20. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications; Regulation 21. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 22. Consideration and approval of plans of work for exploration by the Council The Council shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Commission relating to approval of plans of work for exploration in accordance with paragraphs 11 and 12 of section 3 of the annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 23. The contract; Regulation 24. Rights of the contractor; Regulation 25. Size of area and relinquishment; Regulation 26. Duration of contracts; Regulation 28. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 29. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 31. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 32. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 33. Emergency orders; Regulation 34. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 35. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization. 22 13-40403; Regulation 36. Confidentiality of data and information; Regulation 37. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 38. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 39. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 42. Review; Section II. Information relating to the area under application; Section III. Financial and technical informationa; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section V. Undertakings; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the ... day of ... between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and ... represented by ... (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Section 4. Exploration 4.1 The Contractor shall commence exploration in accordance with the time schedule stipulated in the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto and shall adhere to such time periods or any modification thereto as provided for by this contract. 4.2 The Contractor shall carry out the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto. In carrying out such activities the Contractor shall spend in each contract year not less than the amount specified in such programme, or any agreed review thereof, in actual and direct exploration expenditures. 4.3 The Contractor, with the consent of the Authority, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, may from time to time make such changes in the programme of activities and the expenditures specified therein as may be necessary and prudent in accordance with good mining industry practice, and taking into account the market conditions for the metals contained in polymetallic nodules and other relevant global economic conditions. 4.4 Not later than 90 days prior to the expiration of each five-year period from the date on which this contract enters into force in accordance with section 3 hereof, the Contractor and the Secretary-General shall jointly undertake a review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration under this contract. The Secretary-General may require the Contractor to submit such additional data and information as may be necessary for the purposes of the review. In the light of the review, the Contractor shall make such adjustments to its plan of work as are necessary and shall indicate its programme of activities for the following five-year period, including a revised schedule of anticipated yearly expenditures. Schedule 2 hereto shall be adjusted accordingly.; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 7. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The Contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 11. Data and information to be submitted on expiration of the contract 11.1 The Contractor shall transfer to the Authority all data and information that are both necessary for and relevant to the effective exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority in respect of the exploration area in accordance with the provisions of this section. 11.2 Upon expiration or termination of this contract the Contractor, if it has not already done so, shall submit the following data and information to the SecretaryGeneral:; Section 13. Undertakings 13.1 The Contractor shall carry out exploration in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, the Regulations, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 13.2 The Contractor undertakes:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its 44 13-40403 operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, fax, registered airmail or e-mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an e-mail containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by fax shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published fax number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An e-mail is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 48 13-40403
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 25; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 6. Rapport annuel; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 8. Objets ayant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le prospecteur notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte dans la Zone d’objets ayant ou susceptibles d’avoir un caractère archéologique ou historique et leur emplacement. Le Secrétaire général en avise le Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture.; Article 9. Dispositions générales Sous réserve des dispositions de la Convention, les entités ci-après peuvent présenter à l’Autorité des demandes d’approbation de plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration : a) L’Entreprise, en son nom propre, ou dans le cadre d’un accord de coentreprise;; Article 10. Forme des demandes; Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Zone visée par la demande; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 14. Précédents contrats avec l’Autorité Si le demandeur ou, lorsque la demande émane d’une association ou d’un consortium d’entités liées entre elles par un accord de coentreprise, si un membre de l’association ou du consortium a précédemment obtenu un contrat de l’Autorité, sont indiqués dans la demande : a) La date du contrat ou des contrats précédents;; Article 15. Engagements Dans sa demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration, tout demandeur, y compris l’Entreprise, s’engage par écrit vis-à-vis de l’Autorité à : a) Accepter comme exécutoires et respecter les obligations qui lui incombent en vertu de la Convention et des règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, des décisions des organes de l’Autorité et des clauses des contrats qu’il a conclus avec celle-ci;; Article 17. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 18. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 19. Participation à une entreprise conjointe; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 21. Droits afférents aux demandes; Article 22. Réception, accusé de réception et garde des demandes Le Secrétaire général : a) Accuse réception par écrit, dans les 30 jours de sa réception, toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration soumis conformément à la présente Partie, en spécifiant la date de la réception;; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 24. Examen et approbation par le Conseil des plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration Le Conseil examine les rapports et recommandations de la Commission concernant l’approbation des plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration, conformément aux paragraphes 11 et 12 de la section 3 de l’annexe de l’Accord.; Article 25. Le contrat; Article 26. Droits du contractant; Article 27. Superficie du secteur et restitution; Article 28. Durée des contrats; Article 29. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 30. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 31. Cessation du patronage; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 34. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 36. Droits des États côtiers; Article 37. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, ainsi que leur emplacement et les mesures de protection et de préservation prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 38. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 39. Protection de la confidentialité; Article 40. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Article 41. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 42. Différends; Article 43. Ressources autres que les sulfures polymétalliques Si un prospecteur ou un contractant trouve dans la Zone des ressources autres que des sulfures polymétalliques, la prospection, l’exploration et l’exploitation de ces ressources sont soumises aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité concernant ces ressources, conformément à la Convention et à l’Accord. Le prospecteur ou le contractant notifie sa découverte à l’Autorité.; Article 44. Révision; Section II. Informations relatives à la zone visée par la demande; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Section V. Engagements; Section VI. Contrats antérieurs; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 1. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au Contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 2. Sécurité contractuelle (garantie du titre) 2.1 Le Contractant jouit de la sécurité contractuelle (garantie du titre) et le présent contrat ne peut être suspendu, résilié ou révisé que conformément à ses articles 20, 21 et 24. 2.2 Le Contractant a le droit exclusif d’explorer les sulfures polymétalliques dans la zone d’exploration conformément aux clauses du présent contrat. L’Autorité veille à ce qu’aucune autre entité n’exerce dans la même zone des activités portant sur une catégorie différente de ressources d’une façon qui puisse gêner outre mesure celles que mène le Contractant. 2.3 Le Contractant a le droit, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, de renoncer à tout moment à tout ou partie de ses droits sur la zone d’exploration sans encourir de pénalité étant entendu qu’il demeure tenu de toutes les obligations qu’il a contractées avant la date de cette renonciation en ce qui concerne la zone à laquelle il renonce. 2.4 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être considérée comme conférant au Contractant d’autres droits que ceux qui y sont expressément prévus. L’Autorité se réserve le droit de conclure avec des tiers des contrats concernant les ressources autres que les sulfures polymétalliques de la zone visée par le présent contrat.; Article 3. Durée du contrat 3.1 Le présent contrat entrera en vigueur à la date de sa signature par les deux parties et restera en vigueur pendant une période de quinze ans à compter de cette date à moins : a) Que le Contractant n’obtienne un contrat d’exploitation dans la zone d’exploration entrant en vigueur avant l’expiration de la période de quinze ans; ou b) Qu’il ne soit résilié plus tôt, étant entendu que sa durée pourra être prolongée conformément aux articles 3.2 et 17.2 ci-après. 3.2 Si le Contractant en fait la demande au plus tard six mois avant qu’il vienne à expiration, le présent contrat pourra être prorogé pour des périodes ne dépassant pas cinq ans chacune, aux clauses et conditions dont l’Autorité et le Contractant pourront convenir alors conformément au Règlement. Ces prorogations sont accordées si le Contractant s’est efforcé de bonne foi de se conformer aux stipulations du présent contrat mais n’a pas pu, pour des raisons indépendantes de sa volonté, mener à bien les travaux préparatoires nécessaires pour passer à la phase d’exploitation ou si les circonstances économiques du moment ne justifient pas le passage à la phase d’exploitation. 3.3 Nonobstant l’expiration du présent contrat conformément à son article 3.1, si le Contractant a, 90 jours au moins avant la date d’expiration, sollicité un contrat d’exploitation, ses droits et obligations sont maintenus jusqu’à ce que sa demande ait été examinée et qu’un contrat d’exploitation ait été émis ou refusé.; Article 4. Exploration 4.1 Le Contractant entreprend l’exploration conformément au calendrier arrêté dans le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat et respecte ce calendrier ou toute modification y afférente comme il est prévu par le présent contrat. 4.2 Le Contractant exécute le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat. Ce faisant, pour chaque année du contrat, il consacre aux dépenses effectives et directes d’exploration un montant au moins équivalant à celui qui est prévu dans le programme considéré ou dans toute modification y afférente. 4.3 Le Contractant peut, avec le consentement de l’Autorité, que celle-ci ne peut refuser sans motif raisonnable, apporter de temps à autre au programme d’activités et aux dépenses qui y sont prévues les modifications pouvant être nécessaires et prudentes selon la bonne pratique de l’industrie minière et compte tenu de la situation sur le marché des métaux que renferment les sulfures polymétalliques et de la situation économique générale. 4.4 Le Contractant et le Secrétaire général procèdent conjointement à l’examen des résultats des activités d’exploration menées en vertu du présent contrat, au plus tard 90 jours avant l’expiration de chaque période de cinq ans à compter de la date d’entrée en vigueur prévue à l’article 3. Le Secrétaire général peut exiger du Contractant qu’il lui communique les données et informations supplémentaires pouvant être nécessaires pour cet examen. À l’issue de cet examen, le Contractant apporte à son plan de travail les ajustements nécessaires, indique son programme d’activités pour la période de cinq ans suivante, y compris un calendrier révisé des dépenses annuelles qu’il prévoit. L’annexe 2 est modifiée en conséquence.; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le Contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le Contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 7. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le Contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, ainsi que leur emplacement et les mesures de protection et de préservation prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.; Article 10. Rapports annuels 10.1 Le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général, au plus tard 90 jours après la fin de chaque année civile, un rapport, sous la forme recommandée de temps à autre par la Commission juridique et technique, sur les activités qu’il a menées dans la zone d’exploration comportant, le cas échéant, des renseignements suffisamment détaillés sur : a) Les activités d’exploration menées au cours de l’année civile, y compris les cartes, diagrammes et graphiques illustrant les travaux effectués et les résultats obtenus;; Article 11. Données et informations à présenter à l’expiration du contrat 11.1 Le Contractant communique à l’Autorité toutes données et informations pertinentes qui lui sont nécessaires pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration, conformément aux dispositions du présent article. 11.2 À l’expiration ou à la résiliation du présent contrat, le Contractant, s’il ne l’a pas encore fait, présente au Secrétaire général les données et informations ci-après : a) Copie de toutes les données géologiques, environnementales, géochimiques et géophysiques pertinentes qu’il a acquises au cours de l’exécution du programme d’activités et qui sont nécessaires à l’Autorité pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration;; Article 12. Confidentialité Les données et informations qui sont communiquées à l’Autorité en vertu du présent contrat sont considérées comme confidentielles conformément aux dispositions du Règlement.; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le Contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le Contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le Contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés conformément en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout Contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination dans l’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et soustraitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le Contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le Contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le Contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le Contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le Contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le Contractant ni une entreprise apparentée ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent d’aucune manière faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les sulfures polymétalliques se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du Contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le Contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 19. Renonciation Le Contractant peut, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, renoncer à ses droits et résilier le présent contrat sans encourir de pénalité, étant toutefois entendu qu’il reste en ce cas tenu par toutes les obligations qu’il aura pu contracter avant la date de cette renonciation et par celles qui lui incombent après la résiliation en application du Règlement.; Article 20. Cessation du patronage 20.1 Si la nationalité du Contractant ou l’entité qui le contrôle change ou si l’État qui le patronne, tel qu’il est défini dans le Règlement, met fin à son patronage, le Contractant en informe l’Autorité sans délai. 20.2 Dans l’un et l’autre cas, si le Contractant n’obtient pas d’un autre patron réunissant les conditions prescrites par le Règlement qu’il présente à l’Autorité un certificat de patronage sous la forme prescrite et dans les délais fixés par le Règlement, le présent contrat prend immédiatement fin.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 22. Cession des droits et obligations 22.1 Les droits et obligations du Contractant au titre du présent contrat ne peuvent être cédés en tout ou partie qu’avec le consentement de l’Autorité et conformément au Règlement. 22.2 L’Autorité ne refuse pas sans motifs suffisants son consentement à la cession si le cessionnaire proposé est, à tous égards, un demandeur qualifié au regard du Règlement et assume toutes les obligations du Contractant, et si le transfert n’a pas pour résultat de lui faire attribuer un plan de travail dont l’approbation serait interdite en vertu de l’annexe III, article 6, paragraphe 3 c) de la Convention. 22.3 Les clauses, engagements et conditions prévus par le présent contrat sont à l’avantage des parties et de leurs ayants droit et cessionnaires respectifs, et ont force obligatoire envers eux.; Article 24. Révision 24.1 Lorsqu’il se présente ou qu’il pourrait se présenter des circonstances qui, de l’avis de l’Autorité ou du Contractant, auraient pour effet de rendre le présent contrat inéquitable ou de compromettre ou d’empêcher la réalisation des objectifs prévus par celui-ci ou par la partie XI de la Convention ou par l’Accord, les parties engagent des négociations en vue de réviser ledit contrat en conséquence. 24.2 Le présent contrat peut également être révisé par accord entre le Contractant et l’Autorité afin de faciliter l’application de règles, règlements et procédures adoptés par l’Autorité après l’entrée en vigueur du présent contrat. 24.3 Le présent contrat ne peut être révisé, amendé ou autrement modifié qu’avec le consentement du Contractant et de l’Autorité exprimé dans un instrument approprié signé par les représentants autorisés des parties.; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 Conformément au paragraphe 2 de l’article 21 de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du Contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État Partie à la Convention visé par la décision.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du Contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un document électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins 10 jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un document électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du Contractant vaut notification au Contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du Contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.; Article 27. Droit applicable 27.1 Le présent contrat est régi par ses dispositions, les règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, la partie XI de la Convention, l’Accord et les autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 27.2 Le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes les personnes travaillant ou agissant pour eux dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat observent le droit applicable visé à l’article 27.1 ci-dessus et ne se livrent directement ou indirectement à aucune transaction interdite par ce droit. 27.3 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être interprétée comme dispensant de la nécessité de demander et d’obtenir le permis ou l’autorisation pouvant être requis pour l’une quelconque des activités prévues par le présent contrat.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 8. Объекты, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Изыскатель незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в Районе любого объекта, имеющего фактическое или потенциальное археологическое или историческое значение, и о его местонахождении. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры.; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 10. Форма заявок; Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 13. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 14. Предыдущие контракты с Органом Если заявитель или — в случае представления заявки партнерством или консорциумом субъектов, осуществляющих деятельность совместно, — любой участник партнерства или консорциума ранее заключал какой-либо контракт с Органом, в заявке указывается: a) дата предыдущего контракта (контрактов);; Правило 15. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений соответствующих органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 19. Доля в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Правило 22. Получение, подтверждение и хранение заявок Генеральный секретарь: a) в течение 30 дней в письменном виде подтверждает получение каждой заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке, представленной согласно настоящей части, с указанием даты получения;; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 24. Рассмотрение и утверждение Советом планов работы по разведке Совет рассматривает доклады и рекомендации Комиссии, касающиеся утверждения планов работы по разведке, в соответствии с пунктами 11 и 12 раздела 3 приложения к Соглашению.; Правило 25. Контракт; Правило 26. Права контрактора; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 28. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 29. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 приложения III к Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Правило 30. Периодический обзор осуществления плана работы по разведке; Правило 31. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 32. Ответственность Материальная и иная ответственность контрактора и Органа регулируется Конвенцией. Контрактор продолжает нести ответственность за любой ущерб, причиненный в результате неправомерных действий, допущенных им при осуществлении своей деятельности, в частности ущерб морской среде, по окончании этапа разведки.; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 37. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 38. Данные и информация, имеющие характер собственности, и конфиденциальность; Правило 39. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Правило 40. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Правило 41. Рекомендации, призванные сориентировать контракторов; Правило 42. Споры; Правило 43. Ресурсы помимо полиметаллических сульфидов Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо полиметаллических сульфидов, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Правило 44. Обзор; Приложение 1. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информация; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел V. Обязательства; Раздел VI. Предыдущие контракты; Раздел VII. Добавления; Приложение 3. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » _____ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий A. Стандартные условия, приводимые в приложении 2 к Правилам поиска и разведки полиметаллических сульфидов в Районе, включаются в настоящий контракт и имеют такую же силу, как если бы они развернуто приводились в самом контракте. Разведочный район B. Для целей настоящего контракта «разведочный район» означает ту часть Района, которая выделена Контрактору для разведки; она определяется перечисленными в добавлении 1 к контракту координатами и может периодически сокращаться в соответствии со стандартными условиями и Правилами. Предоставление прав C. С учетом: 1) их взаимной заинтересованности в осуществлении деятельности по разведке в разведочном районе в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением, 2) ответственность Органа за организацию и контроль деятельности в Районе, особенно в целях управления ресурсами Района, в соответствии с правовым режимом, установленным, соответственно, в части XI Конвенции и Соглашении и в части XII Конвенции, и 3) интересов и финансовых обязательств Контрактора в осуществлении деятельности в разведочном районе и взаимных договоренностей, закрепленных в настоящем контракте, Орган настоящим предоставляет Контрактору исключительное право на разведку полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе в соответствии с условиями настоящего контракта. Вступление в силу и срок действия контракта D. Настоящий контракт вступает в силу по его подписании обеими сторонами и с соблюдением стандартных условий остается в силе в течение последующих пятнадцати лет, если только: 1) Контрактор не получит контракт на разработку в разведочном районе, вступающий в силу до истечения такого пятнадцатилетнего периода, или 2) контракт не будет прекращен ранее, при условии что срок действия контракта может быть продлен в соответствии со стандартными условиями 3.2 и 17.2. Добавления E. Добавления, упоминаемые в стандартных условиях, а именно в разделе 4 и разделе 8, являются для целей настоящего контракта, соответственно, добавлениями 2 и 3. Содержание соглашения F. Настоящий контракт заключает в себе все содержание соглашения между сторонами, и никакие устные договоренности или предшествующие документы не меняют его условий. В УДОСТОВЕРЕНИЕ ЧЕГО нижеподписавшиеся, должным образом на то уполномоченные соответствующими сторонами, подписали « » ______ года в __________ настоящий контракт.; Добавление 3 [Программа подготовки кадров становится добавлением к контракту после утверждения Органом в соответствии с разделом 8 стандартных условий.]; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 12. Конфиденциальность Переданные Органу в соответствии с настоящим контрактом данные и информация рассматриваются как конфиденциальные в соответствии с положениями настоящего раздела и Правилами.; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 16. Ответственность; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 22. Передача прав и обязательств; Раздел 24. Пересмотр; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第6条年度报告; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将该事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条申请书包括的总区域; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第14条以前同管理局订立的合同如果申请者，或在申请是联合安排中由实体组成的合伙企业或联营企业提出时，任何合伙者或联营者，以前曾同管理局订立任何合同，则申请书应包括：; 第15条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，各申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第17条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第21条申请费; 第22条申请书的收受、确认和妥善保管秘书长应：; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第24条理事会对勘探工作计划的审议和核准理事会应按照《协定》附件第 3 节第 11 和第 12 段的规定审议委员会关于核准勘探工作计划的报告和建议。; 第25条合同; 第26条承包者的权利; 第27条区域面积和放弃; 第28条合同期限; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第31条担保的终止; 第32条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第37条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将该事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探，直至理事会在考虑联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织的意见后做出决定。; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第39条确保机密性的程序; 第40条通知和一般程序; 第41条指导承包者的建议; 第42条争端; 第43条多金属硫化物以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属硫化物以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 6. Annual report; Regulation 7. Confidentiality of data and information from prospecting contained in the annual report; Regulation 8. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature A prospector shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the Area of an object of actual or potential archaeological or historical nature and its location. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 15. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 17. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 19. Equity interest in a joint venture arrangement; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 21. Fee for applications; Regulation 22. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 24. Consideration and approval of plans of work for exploration by the Council The Council shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Commission relating to approval of plans of work for exploration in accordance with paragraphs 11 and 12 of section 3 of the annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 25. The contract; Regulation 26. Rights of the contractor; Regulation 27. Size of area and relinquishment; Regulation 28. Duration of contracts; Regulation 30. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 31. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 37. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Regulation 38. Confidentiality of data and information; Regulation 39. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 40. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 41. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 44. Review; Section II. Information relating to the area under application; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section V. Undertakings; Annex 3. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the day of between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and represented by (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses A. The standard clauses set out in annex 4 to the Regulations on Prospecting and Exploration for Polymetallic Sulphides in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. Exploration area B. For the purposes of this contract, the “exploration area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for exploration, defined by the coordinates listed in; Section 4. Exploration 4.1 The Contractor shall commence exploration in accordance with the time schedule stipulated in the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto and shall adhere to such time periods or any modification thereto as provided for by this contract. 4.2 The Contractor shall carry out the programme of activities set out in; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 7. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The Contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall 40 10-63720 transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 11. Data and information to be submitted on expiration of the contract 11.1 The Contractor shall transfer to the Authority all data and information that are both necessary for and relevant to the effective exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority in respect of the exploration area in accordance with the provisions of this section. 11.2 Upon expiration or termination of this contract the Contractor, if it has not already done so, shall submit the following data and information to the SecretaryGeneral:; Section 13. Undertakings 13.1 The Contractor shall carry out exploration in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, the Regulations, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 13.2 The Contractor undertakes:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2, of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2, of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, facsimile, registered airmail or electronic mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an electronic document containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by facsimile shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published facsimile number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An electronic document is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction.
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 13; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 29; Paragraph 30; Paragraph 32; Paragraph 33; Paragraph 34; Paragraph 35; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 40; Paragraph 41; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 43; Paragraph 45; Paragraph 49; Paragraph 53; Paragraph 59; Paragraph 60; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 75; Paragraph 76; Paragraph 80; Paragraph 83; Paragraph 84; Paragraph 85; Paragraph 86; Paragraph 95; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 104; Paragraph 105; Paragraph 106; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 143; Paragraph 144; Paragraph 157; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 171; Paragraph 179; Paragraph 180; Paragraph 192; Paragraph 198; Paragraph 200; Paragraph 205; Paragraph 209; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 219; Paragraph 225; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 230; Paragraph 231; Paragraph 232; Paragraph 233; Paragraph 235; Paragraph 236; Paragraph 238; Paragraph 240; Paragraph 241; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 29; Paragraph 30; Paragraph 32; Paragraph 33; Paragraph 34; Paragraph 35; Paragraph 36; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 40; Paragraph 41; Paragraph 42; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 43; Paragraph 44; Paragraph 45; Paragraph 49; Paragraph 60; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 83; Paragraph 84; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 144; Paragraph 157; Paragraph 198; Paragraph 200; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Brown, 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 8
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Brown, 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 8
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 187(c)(i) and (ii) do not afford a prima facie basis on which the jurisdiction of the [Chamber] might be founded."; Article 283 of the Convention; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order 2026/8 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 5; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 36; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 38; Paragraph 39; Paragraph 41; Paragraph 42; Paragraph 48; Paragraph 54; Paragraph 73; Paragraph 81; Paragraph 83; Paragraph 90; Paragraph 91; Paragraph 105; Paragraph 121; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 128; Paragraph 129; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 132; Paragraph 136; Paragraph 138; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 143; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 147; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 151; Paragraph 152; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 154; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 164; Paragraph 170; Paragraph 188; Paragraph 192
• ITLOS Order 2026/9 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 42. (a). transfer any duly appointed observer of the Authority to or from any vessel used for the Seabed Mineral Activities, together with any necessary equipment; (b) provide such observers with appropriate accommodation and subsistence and access to communication equipment while on board any vessel; and (c) notify the Chief Executive Officer of proposed vessel schedules in a timely manner to facilitate the transfer of the Authority’s observers and representatives. Observers powers and functions (1) An observer shall, for the purposes of monitoring the Seabed Mineral Activities while onboard a vessel: (a) question any relevant person engaged by the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities on any matter relating to the compliance of the Sponsored Party with the Act, these Regulations and the Sponsorship Agreement; (b) request any relevant person to produce any document that is necessary to monitor the Sponsored Party’s compliance and examine such a document and make a copy of it; (c) examine any equipment that records data and information; and (d) document any activity using any means to do so, including video, audio, photograph, or other form of recording. (2) An observer shall report to the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with the Applicable Guideline and provide a final report to the Chief Executive Officer within 30 days following the completion of his or her duties. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the report, and following any consultation with the Sponsored Party on the report provide to the Board his or her comments and recommendations for the Board’s consideration.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 13. Delegation of powers. (1) The Authority may, from time to time, in writing, delegate its powers and functions under this Act to any person, committee or working group. (2) A delegation may be made subject to such terms and conditions as the Authority thinks fit, and may be made either generally or in relation to particular circumstances. (3) Any person, committee or working group purporting to exercise any power of the Authority by virtue of a delegation under this section must, when required to do so, produce evidence of such delegation to exercise the power. (4) Any person in breach of subsection (3) commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $5,000 or imprisonment for 2 years or both.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be: (a) responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage: (i) arising out of its failure to comply with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (ii) as a consequence of any act or omission in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (c) liable for any penalties arising out of its failure to comply with this UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The Republic shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities, including any acts or omission of the part of the Sponsored Party’s employees, except to the extent such actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims or demands arise from acts or omissions by the Authority in exercise of its powers and functions under this Act. (3) A Sponsored Party is required, together with any relevant Affiliate or Associate to execute a guarantee and indemnity in a form that is acceptable to the Authority, to indemnify the Authority and the Republic against any liability incurred by the Republic whether under the UNCLOS or otherwise arising from the conduct of the Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 33. Records and Confidentiality. (1) The Authority shall keep and maintain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issued, Sponsorship Agreements, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority shall securely keep and maintain all confidential information received in accordance with the prescribed procedures, and shall not disclose such information unless: (a) it is permitted to be disclosed under Section 52 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) the disclosure is made for the purposes of or in connection with, the performance or exercise of any function, power or duty conferred under this Act or any other written law; (c) the disclosure is required by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator agreed to by the Parties; (d) the disclosure is made in connection with proceedings or any investigation or inquiry for proceedings, for an offence against this Act or any other enactment; (e) the information is: (i) required by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (ii) requested by the Secretary-General of the ISA or their designated representative in writing together with an explanation that such information is necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS; (iii) such that the Authority considers it may assist the ISA in securing compliance of a Sponsored Party under Article 153(4) of the UNCLOS; or (iv) required by another national regulatory agency where the Authority believes the information may assist such agency in the exercise of its powers or performance of its functions under an enactment relating to the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (f) the information is reasonably required by Approved Experts engaged by the Authority in the performance of their services, provided: (i) that such experts undertake in writing to keep the information confidential; and (ii) the disclosure is reasonably necessary in connection with the Authority in exercising its functions under this Act; or (g) the information is publicly available; (3) Where confidential information is required to be disclosed under subsection (2)(a) to (f), the Authority shall inform the Sponsored Party prior to such disclosure taking place. (4) Where the Authority intends to disclose any confidential information, the disclosure of which is not provided for under subsection (2), the Authority shall consult with the Sponsored Party about the content and nature of such disclosure and shall agree any disclosure with the Sponsored Party before any such disclosure occurs and subject to any terms and conditions that the parties consider appropriate. (5) Where the Authority becomes aware of a suspected or actual breach of this Section, the Authority shall immediately inform the Sponsored Party and take all practicable measures to prevent or cease the suspected or actual breach.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 13; Paragraph 14; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 13; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 4. Consentement à être lié; Article 7. Application à titre provisoire; Article 9. Dépositaire Le Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies est le dépositaire du présent Accord.; Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: preamble/chapeau; Article 4. Consent to be bound; Article 9. Depositary; Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 137. Régime juridique de la zone et de ses ressources; Article 140. Intérêt de l’humanité; Article 143. Recherche scientifique marine; Article 144. Transfert des techniques; Article 145. Protection du milieu marin; Article 146. Protection de la vie humaine; Article 147. Compatibilité des activités menées dans la zone et des; Article 150. Politique générale relative aux activités menées dans la; Article 151. Politique en matière de production; Article 152. Exercice des pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 153. Système d’exploration et d’exploitation; Article 154. Examen périodique; Article 155. Conférence de révision; Article 156. Création de l’Autorité; Article 157. Nature de l’Autorité et principes fondamentaux; Article 158. Organes de l’Autorité; Article 159. Composition, procédure et vote; Article 160. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 161. Composition, procédure et vote; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 163. Organes du Conseil; Article 164. La commission de planification économique; Article 165. La commission juridique et technique; Article 166. Le secrétariat; Article 167. Personnel de l’Autorité; Article 168. Caractère international du secrétariat; Article 169. Consultations et coopération avec les organisations; Article 170. L’entreprise; Article 171. Ressources financières de l’Autorité; Article 172. Budget annuel de l’Autorité; Article 173. Dépenses de l’Autorité; Article 174. Capacité de l’Autorité de contracter des emprunts; Article 175. Vérification annuelle des comptes; Article 176. Statut juridique; Article 177. Privilèges et immunités; Article 178. Immunité de juridiction et d’exécution; Article 179. Exemption de perquisition et de toute autre forme de; Article 180. Exemption de tout contrôle, restriction, réglementation; Article 181. Archives et communications officielles de l’Autorité; Article 182. Privilèges et immunités des personnes agissant dans le; Article 183. Exemption d’impôts ou taxes et de droits de douane; Article 184. Suspension du droit de vote; Article 185. Suspension de l’exercice des droits et privilèges inhérents; Article 187. Compétence de la chambre pour le règlement des; Article 188. Soumission des différends à une chambre spéciale du; Article 189. Limitation de compétence en ce qui concerne les; Article 191. Avis consultatifs
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 144. Transfer of technology; Article 150. Policies relating to activities in the Area; Article 151. Production policies; Article 152. Exercise of powers and functions by the Authority; Article 153. System of exploration and exploitation; Article 154. Periodic review; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 157. Nature and fundamental principles of the Authority; Article 158. Organs of the Authority; Article 159. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 161. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 163. Organs of the Council; Article 164. The Economic Planning Commission; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission; Article 166. The Secretariat; Article 167. The staff of the Authority; Article 168. International character of the Secretariat; Article 169. Consultation and cooperation with international and non-governmental organizations; Article 170. The Enterprise; Article 171. Funds of the Authority; Article 172. Annual budget of the Authority; Article 173. Expenses of the Authority; Article 174. Borrowing power of the Authority; Article 175. Annual audit; Article 177. Privileges and immunities; Article 182. Privileges and immunities of certain persons connected with the Authority; Article 183. Exemption from taxes and customs duties; Article 184. Suspension of the exercise of voting rights; Article 185. Suspension of exercise of rights and privileges of membership; Article 187. Jurisdiction of the Seabed Disputes Chamber; Article 191. Advisory opinions

exploration_and_exploitation_system (1810)

The system of exploration and exploitation: plans of work, contracts, qualifications of applicants, security of tenure.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify 1. Nothing in these Regulations shall affect the rights and legitimate interests of coastal States under the Convention, including but not limited to article 142. 2. Applicants, contractors, as well as the Enterprise, shall take all necessary measures to ensure that their activities and foreseen activities in the Area are conducted with due regard to the rights and legitimate interests of the [relevant] [potentially affected] coastal States under the Convention and in accordance with applicable regulations and Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. 3. Without prejudice to other necessary measures taken pursuant to paragraph 2, Applicants, contractors or the Enterprise shall engage with potentially affected coastal States, including by conducting consultations, at an early stage including prior to and after submitting an application and throughout the Exploitation Contract, in accordance with these Regulations and the applicable Standards, and taking into account the Guidelines. 4. The potentially affected coastal States referred to in paragraph 3 above shall [include] / [comprise]:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 9. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 10. Preliminary review of application by the Secretary-General 1. The Secretary-General shall preliminarily review an application for approval of a Plan of Work and determine whether the application contains all [the documents regarding] the information required by regulations 5 to 8 for further processing. 2. Where the Secretary-General determines that an application does not contain all the [documents regarding the] information required by regulations 5 to 8, the SecretaryGeneral shall, within 45 Days of receipt of the application, notify the Applicant, specifying the information which the Applicant must submit in order to complete the application. Further processing of an application will not begin until the Secretary General determines that the application is complete, which includes all required information having been submitted by the Applicant, including payment of the administrative fee specified in regulation 86. [2. bis Where the Secretary-General considers that an application contains [the documents regarding] the information required by regulations 5 to 8, it shall circulate to members of the Authority non-confidential information of a general nature regarding the application, and information enabling them to access a non -confidential version of the application.]; Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application 1. The Secretary-General shall, within 7 Days after determining that an application for the approval of a Plan of Work is ready to progress pursuant to regulation 10, [taking into account the confidentiality of the data, place the Environmental Plans and all non confidential parts of Test Mining Report, if applicable submitted, including any supporting material on the Authority’s website for a period of consideration of an application by the Authority, and]consult with all States and Stakeholders in accordance with regulation 93ter on the application[, Environmental Plans and the non-confidential parts of all other documents accompanying the application pursuant to regulation 7]. 2. The Applicant shall consider the comments provided pursuant to paragraph 1 when fulfilling the requirement at regulation 93ter, paragraph 9. The Applicant shall submit any revised documentation and the written response to consultation as required by regulation 93ter, paragraph 9 to the Secretary-General [Alt. 1 within a period of 60 Days following the close of the comment period or such longer period as determined by the Secretary-General following a request by the Applicant. The Secretary-General may extend this time period [for a further 30 Days], upon a reasonable request by the Applicant to revise the plans or responses. Notice of the extension of the period shall be posted on the Authority’s website] [Alt. 2 in a timely manner].; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 16. Consideration and approval of Plans of Work [1. The Council shall [commence at its next meeting considerations of] the reports, recommendations [and the terms and conditions of provided by] the Commission, [Alt. 1 relating to approval of Plans of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement, after due consideration, and within 60 Days unless the Council decides to provide for a longer period, the Council shall approve or disapprove the Plan of Work] [Alt. 2 and shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement ].] [1. Alt. The Council shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement.]; Section 1. Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 17. The Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract 1. An Exploitation Contract can only be terminated:; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 22. Use of Exploitation Contract as security; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 24. Change of Control; Regulation 24 bis. Change of Nationality; Regulation 25. Documents to be submitted prior to [commercial] production; Regulation 25 Alt. Documents to be submitted prior to production; Regulation 26. Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee/Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 27. Commencement of Commercial Production; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Regulation 29 ter Certification of origin; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 30 bis. Human health and safety management system; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Regulation 31 Alt. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Regulation 31 bis. Reducing risk of damage to submarine cables and pipelines; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans 1. A Contractor shall maintain:; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 35. Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage]; Regulation 36. Insurance; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights. ] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Prevention of corruption; Regulation 41. Other Resource categories; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans [1. The Council may request the Commission to prepare a Regional Environmental Management Plan for the regional areas where activities in the Area are likely to take place, for consideration and adoption by the Council.]; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 47. Environmental Impact Assessment; Regulation 47 bis. Scoping; Regulation 48. Environmental Impact Statement; Regulation 48 bis. [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 50 bis. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 50 ter Environmental Management System; Regulation 51. Compliance with the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 52. Performance assessments of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 53. Pollution control A Contractor shall take [all] necessary [and appropriate] measures to protect and preserve the Marine Environment, from harmful effects, in accordance with article 145 of the Convention, including by preventing, reducing and controlling pollution and other hazards, [including underwater noise, light, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine litter, directly or indirectly [resulting arising] from its activities in the Area. This is to be done [in accordance with the Standards], [pursuant to] [its Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, and] all relevant rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority [and Contractors’ Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan] , [and taking into account] Regional Environmental Management Plans, and [the Guidelines].; Regulation 53 bis. Mining Discharges; Regulation 54. Establishment of an Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The Authority hereby establishes the Environmental Compensation Fund, referred to as “the ECF” for the purposes of these Regulations.; Regulation 55. Purpose of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The purpose of the ECF is to provide adequate compensation for any damage arising from activities conducted under an Exploitation Contract in cases where a Contractor does not meet its liability in full, and where all other options under these Regulations for claiming compensation from the Contractor have been exhausted, while the Sponsoring State is not liable under article 139, paragraph 2, of the Convention. Compensation includes the costs of reasonable measures undertaken to prevent, limit, or remedy damage to the Marine Environment [, as well as those related to restitution, Restoration and Rehabilitation]. 2. The operation of the ECF shall be subject to periodic review.]; Regulation 56. Funding of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. Consistent with the polluter-pays principle, the ECF shall consist of a one-time contribution paid by Contractors and/or the Enterprise following the approval of a [Plan of Work] and prior to [Commercial Production] [the commencement of activities under an Exploitation Contract], as well as an annual levy paid to the ECF by Contractors and/or the Enterprise, both as determined by the Authority.; Regulation 57. Modification of a Plan of Work by a Contractor; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 59. Closure Plan; Regulation 60. Final Closure Plan: Cessation of [Commercial] Production; Regulation 61. [Implementation and Monitoring of the Final Closure Plan] 1. The purpose of Closure monitoring is [to]:; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States ].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Section 2. [Determination of Royalties and Payments under the Exploitation Contract]; Regulation 64. Royalty payment A Contractor, from the date of commencement of Commercial Production, shall pay a royalty in respect of the Mineral-bearing ore sold [,during the time of reduction, sold,] or removed without sale from the Contract Area as determined pursuant to paragraph 1 of Section 8 of the Annex to the Agreement in accordance with the applicable Standard. [This regulation is without prejudice to article 11, paragraph 3, of Annex III to the Convention.] Regulation 64bis Equalization measure [A Contractor, from the date that its Plan of Work has been approved, shall pay the equalization measure as determined in accordance with the applicable Standard governing the equalization measure [subject to article 10 of Annex IV to the Convention]. Regulation 64ter Environmental costs The financial terms of a contract shall reflect the environmental externalities of the Exploitation activities permitted under the contract and throughout the value chain. To this end, the Authority shall levy a further royalty reflecting environmental externalities in accordance with regulation 64quat. The further royalty shall complement the royalty provided for in regulation 64.] [Regulation 64 quat. Environmental costs royalties; Regulation 66. Form of royalty returns A royalty return lodged with the Secretary-General shall be in the form prescribed by the applicable Standard and taking into account the Guidelines and signed by the Contractor’s designated official.; Regulation 68. Lodging of royalty returns; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 70. Payment of royalty shown by royalty return; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 72. [Authority may request additional information] [Request for Additional Information] The Secretary-General may, by notice to a Contractor who has lodged a royalty return, request the Contractor to provide, by the date stated in the notice, which shall be no later than 90 Days from the date of the notice, [additional] information to support the matters stated in the royalty return.; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 78. Arm’s-length adjustments 1. For the purposes of this regulation:; Regulation 79. Interest on unpaid royalty; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 82. Review of rates of payments; Regulation 83. Recording in Seabed Mining Register [All payments received by the Authority from Contractors shall be recorded in the Seabed Mining Register and shall be publicly available.]; Regulation 83 bis. Beneficial Ownership Registry; Regulation 84. Annual reporting fee; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Regulation 86. Application fee for approval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 87. Other applicable fees A Contractor shall pay other prescribed fees in respect of any matter specified by the Council, based on the recommendations of the Finance Committee, in accordance with the applicable rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority.; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 91. Data and Information to be submitted upon expiration or termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 22 and Instruments of Transfer or Assignment in accordance with regulation 23;; Regulation 103 and, where applicable, the corresponding improvement plan;; Regulation 92 bis. Publication of environmental data and information The Secretary General shall annually publish all environmental data and information relating to a Contract Area [including]/[as well as] environmental data and information obtained [adjacent to] the Contract Area], but in connection with the activities in the Contract Area [and]/[or] as part of the Regional Environmental Management Plan] whether received before, during or after application for a Plan of Work, or during the term of the Exploitation Contract. The data and information, including any revisions to that data or information, on a central data repository that is publicly available via the Authority’s website [as soon as practicable]/[according to the timeline proposed in the applicable standard], and in accordance with the Rules, regulations and Procedures of the Authority, applicable Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. Any new environmental data and information shall be published on the central data repository at regular intervals defined in the applicable Standard. Alt. The Secretary General shall ensure that all environmental data and information outside the Contract Area, but in connection with the activities within the Contract Area, are published on a central data repository that is publicly accessible via the Autho rity’s website. This shall include environmental data and information collected before, during, and after the submission of a Plan of Work during the term of the Exploitation Contract and throughout the post closure monitoring period. New or revised enviro nmental data or information shall be published within 30 Days of their receipt by the Authority or in accordance with defined intervals set out in the applicable standard and taking account into the Guidelines. Publications shall be carried out in accordance with the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and relevant data transparency requirements.; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].; Regulation 93 ter State and Stakeholder Consultation [by an Applicant or Contractor]; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the noncompliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection. ] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities] 1. Inspectors shall:; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [Alt. 1 objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Alt. 2 Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with [regulation 35 and] any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary -General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, specifying the date of receipt.]; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 105. Sponsoring States Without prejudice to regulations 5, 6 and 21, and to the generality of their obligations under article 139, paragraph 2, and article 153, paragraph 4, of the Convention and article 4, paragraph 4, of Annex III to the Convention, Sponsoring States shall, in particular, take all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by Contractors they have sponsored in accordance with Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement, rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and the terms and conditions of the Exploitation Contract.; Regulation 106. Settlement of disputes; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Annex I. Application for approval of a Plan of Work to obtain an Exploitation Contract; Section I. Information concerning the applicant 1. Name of applicant. 2. Street address of applicant. 3. Postal address (if different from above). 4. Telephone number of applicant’s Designated Representative. 5. [omitted] 6. Email address of applicant’s Designated Representative. 7. Name of applicant’s Designated Representative.; Section III. Technical information; Section IV. Financial information; Section V. Undertakings; Section VI. Previous contracts with the Authority; Annex II. Mining Workplan A Mining Workplan, based on the results of Exploration (at least equivalent to the data and information to be provided pursuant to section 11.2 of the standard clauses for Exploration Contracts), should cover the following subject matters:; Annex III. Financing Plan A Financing Plan should include [supported by written [evidence]:; Annex III bis. Scoping Report A Scoping Report shall include the following:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Annex X. Standard clauses for Exploitation Contract; Section 2. Interpretation 2.1 Terms and phrases defined in the Regulations have the same meaning in these standard clauses. 2.2 In accordance with the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, its provisions and Part XI of the Convention are to be interpreted and applied together as a single instrument; this Contract and references in this Contract to the Convention are to be interpreted and applied accordingly.; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 4. Security of tenure and exclusivity 4.1 The Contractor is hereby granted the exclusive right under this Contract to Explore for and Exploit the resource category specified in this Contract and to conduct Exploration and Exploitation activities within the Contract Area in accordance with the terms of this Contract. The Contractor shall have security of tenure , and this Contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with the terms set out herein and the Regulations. Any impacts from activities in the Area carried out under an Exploitation Contract must be strictly limited to the Contractor area. 4.2 The Authority undertakes not to grant any rights to another person to Explore for or Exploit the same resource category in the Contract Area for the duration of this Contract. 4.3 The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with third parties with respect to Resources other than the resource category specified in this Contract but shall ensure that no other entity operates in the Contract Area for a different category o f Resources in a manner that might interfere with the Exploitation activities of the Contractor. 4.4 If the Authority receives an application for an Exploitation Contract in an area that overlaps with the Contract Area, the Authority shall notify the Contractor of the existence of that application within 30 Days of receiving that application.; Section 5. Legal title to Minerals 5.1 The Contractor will obtain title to and property over the Minerals upon recovery of the Minerals from the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof [onto the Contractor’s mining vessel or Installation], in compliance with this Contract. 5.2 This Contract shall not create, nor be deemed to confer, any interest or right on the Contractor in or over any other part of the Area and its Resources other than those rights expressly granted in this Contract.; Section 6. Use of subcontractors and third parties 6.1 No Contractor may subcontract any part of its obligations under this Contract unless the subcontract contains appropriate terms and conditions to ensure that the performance of the subcontract will reflect and uphold the same standards and requirements of this Contract between the Contractor and the Authority. 6.2 The Contractor shall ensure the adequacy of its systems and procedures for the supervision and management of its subcontractors and any work that is further subcontracted, in accordance with Good Industry Practice. 6.2.bis. The Contractor shall apply due diligence in selecting its suppliers, and shall be responsible to ensure the adequacy of goods and services it procures, in accordance with Good Industry Practice].6.3 Nothing in this section shall relieve the Contractor of any obligation or liability under this Contract, and the Contractor shall remain responsible and liable to the Authority for the performance of its obligations under this Contract in the event that it subcontracts any aspect of the performance of those obligations.; Section 7. Responsibility and liability 7.1 [In accordance with the ‘polluter pays’ principle,] the Contractor shall be liable to the Authority for the actual amount of [all environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising out of activities of the Contractor] / [any damage, including damage to the Marine Environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract [arising out of its wrongful acts [or omissions]] ] [], account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority or third parties. This clause survives the termination of the Contract and applies to all damage [] [arising out of the Contractors wrongful acts [or omissions]] regardless of whether it is caused or arises before, during or after the completion of the Exploitation activities or Contract term. [For the purpose of clauses 7.1 and 7.2, ‘wrongful acts or omissions’, means any unlawful act or omission attributable to the Contractor that results in damage not anticipated and approved in the Plan of Work, irrespective of bad intention or negligence.] [[Recoverable damages under this clause include: costs of reasonable measures to prevent and limit damage to the Marine Environment, lost revenue, reinstatement, pay-out in lieu of actual reinstatement, and/or measures to compensate for third-party economic loss, as well as pure ecological loss and harm to the living resources of the Area.] For the avoidance of doubt, strict liability in this context applies the polluter pays principle, and means, it is not necessary to prove that a Contractor intended to commit or was reckless as to committing a wrongful act or omission, it is necessary only to demonstrate unpermitted damage or harm arose as a result of a Contractor’s wrongful act for the Contractor to be held liable for that damage or harm. ] 7.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any [wrongful] environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising from activities of the Contractor. 7.3 The Authority shall be liable to the Contractor for the actual amount of any damage caused to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] or third parties. 7.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention.; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Section 9. Extension 9.1 20.] [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of s uch renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Section 15. No waiver No waiver by either party of any rights pursuant to a breach of the terms and conditions of this Contract to be performed by the other party shall be construed as a waiver by the party of any succeeding breach of the same or any other term or condition to be performed by the other party.; Section 16. Modification of terms and conditions of this Contract 16.1 When circumstances have arisen or are likely to arise after this Contract has commenced which, in the opinion of the Authority or the Contractor would render this Contract inequitable or make it impracticable or impossible to achieve the objectives set out in this Contract or in Part XI of the Convention, the parties shall enter into negotiations to revise it accordingly. 16.2 This Contract may be revised by agreement between the Contractor and the Authority. 16.3 (a) This Contract may be revised only: with the consent of the Contractor and the Authority; and; Section 17. Applicable law 17.1 This Contract is governed by the terms of this Contract, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 17.2 The Contractor, shall observe the applicable law referred to in Section 17.1 hereof and shall not engage in any transaction, directly or indirectly, prohibited by the applicable law. 17.3 Nothing contained in this Contract shall be deemed an exemption from the necessity of applying for and obtaining any permit or authority that may be required for any activities under this Contract. 17.4 The division of this Contract into sections and subsections and the insertion of headings are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation hereof.; Section 18. Disputes Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this Contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XII of the Regulations.; Section 19. Notice Any notice provided to or from one party to another pursuant to this Contract shall be provided in accordance with the notice provision set out at regulation 91 of the Regulations.; Section 20. Schedules This Contract includes the schedules to this Contract, which shall be an integral part hereof.; Annex X bis. Design Criteria for Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones Applicants must establish suitable and effective Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones in order to monitor the Environmental Impacts of their activities. The following parameters shall apply in the designation of Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones. 1. Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones must be situated within the Contract Area (and the Contract Area may need to be selected around the need for appropriate Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones, especially where multiple or large reference zones are required); Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 9. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 10. Preliminary review of application by the Secretary-General; Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 16. Consideration and approval of Plans of Work [1. The Council shall [commence at its next meeting considerations of] the reports and recommendations of the Commission, [Alt. 1 relating to approval of Plans of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement, after due consideration, and within 60 Days unless the Council decides to provide for a longer period, the Council shall approve or disapprove the Plan of Work] [Alt. 2 and shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement].] [1. Alt. The Council shall take decisions on approval or disapproval of the Plan of Work in accordance with paragraph 11 of Section 3 of the Annex to the Agreement.]; Section 1. Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 17. The Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 22. Use of Exploitation Contract as security; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 24. Change of Control; Regulation 24 bis. Change of Nationality; Regulation 25. Documents to be submitted prior to [commercial] production; Regulation 25 Alt. Documents to be submitted prior to production; Regulation 26 Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee / Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 27. Commencement of Commercial Production; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Regulation 29 ter Certification of origin; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 30 bis. Human health and safety management system; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Regulation 31 bis. Reducing risk of damage to submarine cables and pipelines; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 35 Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature][Underwater Cultural Heritage] [1. Exploitation activities in the Area shall be conducted in a way that does not affect human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage].; Regulation 36. Insurance; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights.] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 41. Other Resource categories; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 47. Environmental Impact Assessment; Regulation 47 bis. Scoping; Regulation 48. Environmental Impact Statement; Regulation 48 bis [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining [1. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor, as the case may be, from conducting Test Mining before the submission of a Plan of Work for Exploitation.] [1.Alt. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor from conducting Test Mining and Pilot Mining.]; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 51. Closure Plan; Regulation 51 bis. Implementation and Monitoring of the Closure Plan; Regulation 52. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 53. Pollution control A Contractor shall take [all][measures] necessary [and appropriate] [measures] to protect and preserve the Marine Environment[, including the coastline], from harmful effects, in accordance with article 145 of the Convention, including by preventing, reducing and controlling pollution and other hazards, [including underwater noise, light, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine litter[Alt. 1, directly or indirectly [resulting arising]] [Alt. 2 that may arise from] from its activities in the Area. This is to be done [in accordance with the Standards], [pursuant to] [its Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, and] all relevant rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority [and Contractors’ Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan or Closure Plan, as appropriate,], [and consistent with] the applicable Regional Environmental Management Plans, and [the Guidelines].; Regulation 53 bis. Mining Discharges; Regulation 54. Establishment of an Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The Authority hereby establishes the Environmental Compensation Fund, referred to as “the ECF” for the purposes of these Regulations.; Regulation 55. Purpose of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The purpose of the ECF is to provide adequate compensation for any damage arising from activities conducted under an Exploitation Contract in cases where a Contractor does not meet its liability in full, and where all other options under these Regulations for claiming compensation from the Contractor have been exhausted, while the Sponsoring State is not liable under article 139, paragraph 2, of the Convention. Compensation includes the costs of reasonable measures undertaken to prevent, limit, or remedy damage to the Marine Environment [, as well as those related to restitution, Restoration and Rehabilitation].; Regulation 56. Funding of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. Consistent with the polluter-pays principle, the ECF shall consist of a one-time contribution paid by Contractors and/or the Enterprise following the approval of a [Plan of Work] and prior to [Commercial Production] [the commencement of activities under an Exploitation Contract], as well as an annual levy paid to the ECF by Contractors and/or the Enterprise, both as determined by the Authority.; Regulation 57. Modification of a Plan of Work; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Section 2. [][Determination of Royalties and Payments under the Exploitation Contract]; Regulation 64. Royalty payment A Contractor, from the date of commencement of Commercial Production, shall pay a royalty in respect of the Mineral-bearing ore sold [,during the time of reduction, sold,] or removed without sale from the Contract Area as determined pursuant to paragraph 1 of Section 8 of the Annex to the Agreement in accordance with the applicable Standard. [This regulation is without prejudice to article 11, paragraph 3, of Annex III to the Convention.] Regulation 64bis Equalization measure [A Contractor, from the date that its Plan of Work has been approved, shall pay the equalization measure as determined in accordance with the applicable Standard governing the equalization measure [subject to article 10 of Annex IV to the Convention]. Regulation 64ter Environmental costs The financial terms of a contract shall reflect the environmental externalities of the Exploitation activities permitted under the contract and throughout the value chain. To this end, the Authority shall levy a further royalty reflecting environmental externalities in accordance with regulation 64quat. The further royalty shall complement the royalty provided for in regulation 64.] [Regulation 64 quat. Environmental costs royalties; Regulation 66. Form of royalty returns A royalty return lodged with the Secretary-General shall be in the form prescribed by the applicable Standard and taking into account the Guidelines and signed by the Contractor’s designated official.; Regulation 68. Lodging of royalty returns; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 70. Payment of royalty shown by royalty return; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 72. [Authority may request additional information] [Request for Additional Information] The Secretary-General may, by notice to a Contractor who has lodged a royalty return, request the Contractor to provide, by the date stated in the notice, which shall be no later than 90 Days from the date of the notice, [additional] information to support the matters stated in the royalty return.; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 78. Arm’s-length adjustments; Regulation 79. Interest on unpaid royalty; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 82. Review of rates of payments; Regulation 83. Recording in Seabed Mining Register [ ] [All payments received by the Authority from Contractors shall be recorded in the Seabed Mining Register and shall be publicly available.]; Regulation 83 bis. Beneficial Ownership Registry; Regulation 84. Annual reporting fee; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Regulation 86. Application fee for approval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 87. Other applicable fees A Contractor shall pay other prescribed fees in respect of any matter specified by the Council, based on the recommendations of the Finance Committee, in accordance with the applicable rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority.; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 91 Data and Information to be submitted upon expiration or termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 92 bis. Publication of environmental data and information The Secretary General shall annually publish all environmental data and information relating to a Contract Area [including]/[as well as environmental data and information obtained [adjacent to][] the Contract Area], but in connection with the activities in the Contract Area [and/or as part of the Regional Environmental Management Plan] whether received before, during or after application for a Plan of Work, or during the term of the Exploitation Contract. The data and information, including any revisions to that data or information, on a central data repository that is publicly available via the Authority’s website [as soon as practicable]/[according to the timeline proposed in the applicable standard], and in accordance with the Rules, regulations and Procedures of the Authority, applicable Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. Any new environmental data and information shall be published on the central data repository at regular intervals defined in the applicable Standard. Alt. The Secretary General shall ensure that all environmental data and information outside the Contract Area, but in connection with the activities within the Contract Area, are published on a central data repository that is publicly accessible via the Authority’s website. This shall include environmental data and information collected before, during, and after the submission of a Plan of Work during the term of the Exploitation Contract and throughout the post closure monitoring period. New or revised environmental data or information shall be published within 30 Days of their receipt by the Authority or in accordance with defined intervals set out in the applicable standard and taking account into the Guidelines. Publications shall be carried out in accordance with the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and relevant data transparency requirements.; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 93 ter State and Stakeholder Consultation [by an Applicant or Contractor]; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the non-compliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection.] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities]; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with Regulation 35 and any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary-General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary-General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, [], specifying the date of receipt.]; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 106. Settlement of disputes; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the conclusion of the first Exploitation Contract]/[Alt. 2 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also undertake additional reviews [to the extent necessary] at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall undertake a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Annex I. Application for approval of a Plan of Work to obtain an Exploitation Contract; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section III. Technical information; Section IV. Financial information; Section V. Undertakings; Section VI. Previous contracts with the Authority; Annex II. Mining Workplan A Mining Workplan, based on the results of Exploration (at least equivalent to the data and information to be provided pursuant to section 11.2 of the standard clauses for Exploration Contracts), should cover the following subject matters:; Annex III. Financing Plan A Financing Plan should include supported by written evidence:; Annex III bis. Scoping Report A [environmental Impact Assessment]Scoping Report shall include the following:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Annex X. Standard clauses for Exploitation Contract; Section 2. Interpretation 2.1 Terms and phrases defined in the Regulations have the same meaning in these standard clauses. 2.2 In accordance with the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, its provisions and Part XI of the Convention are to be interpreted and applied together as a single instrument; this Contract and references in this Contract to the Convention are to be interpreted and applied accordingly.; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 4. Security of tenure and exclusivity 4.1 The Contractor is hereby granted the exclusive right under this Contract to Explore for and Exploit the resource category specified in this Contract and to conduct Exploration and Exploitation activities within the Contract Area in accordance with the terms of this Contract. The Contractor shall have security of tenure, and this Contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with the terms set out herein and the Regulations. Any impacts from activities in the Area carried out under an Exploitation Contract must be strictly limited to the Contractor area. 4.2 The Authority undertakes not to grant any rights to another person to Explore for or Exploit the same resource category in the Contract Area for the duration of this Contract. 4.3 The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with third parties with respect to Resources other than the resource category specified in this Contract but shall ensure that no other entity operates in the Contract Area for a different category of Resources in a manner that might interfere with the Exploitation activities of the Contractor. 4.4 If the Authority receives an application for an Exploitation Contract in an area that overlaps with the Contract Area, the Authority shall notify the Contractor of the existence of that application within 30 Days of receiving that application.; Section 5. Legal title to Minerals 5.1 The Contractor will obtain title to and property over the Minerals upon recovery of the Minerals from the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof [onto the Contractor’s mining vessel or Installation], in compliance with this Contract. 5.2 This Contract shall not create, nor be deemed to confer, any interest or right on the Contractor in or over any other part of the Area and its Resources other than those rights expressly granted in this Contract.; Section 6. Use of subcontractors and third parties 6.1 No Contractor may subcontract any part of its obligations under this Contract unless the subcontract contains appropriate terms and conditions to ensure that the performance of the subcontract will reflect and uphold the same standards and requirements of this Contract between the Contractor and the Authority. 6.2 The Contractor shall ensure the adequacy of its systems and procedures for the supervision and management of its subcontractors and any work that is further subcontracted, in accordance with Good Industry Practice. 6.2. bis The Contractor shall apply due diligence in selecting its suppliers, and shall be responsible to ensure the adequacy of goods and services it procures, in accordance with Good Industry Practice]. 6.3 Nothing in this section shall relieve the Contractor of any obligation or liability under this Contract, and the Contractor shall remain responsible and liable to the Authority for the performance of its obligations under this Contract in the event that it subcontracts any aspect of the performance of those obligations.; Section 7. Responsibility and liability 7.1 [In accordance with the ‘polluter pays’ principle,] the Contractor shall be liable to the Authority for the actual amount of [all environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising out of activities of the Contractor] / [any damage, including damage to the Marine Environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract [arising out of its wrongful acts [or omissions]]] [], account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority or third parties. This clause survives the termination of the Contract and applies to all damage [] [arising out of the Contractors wrongful acts [or omissions]] regardless of whether it is caused or arises before, during or after the completion of the Exploitation activities or Contract term. [For the purpose of clauses 7.1 and 7.2, ‘wrongful acts or omissions’, means any unlawful act or omission attributable to the Contractor that results in damage not anticipated and approved in the Plan of Work, irrespective of bad intention or negligence.] [[Recoverable damages under this clause include: costs of reasonable measures to prevent and limit damage to the Marine Environment, lost revenue, reinstatement, pay-out in lieu of actual reinstatement, and/or measures to compensate for third-party economic loss, as well as pure ecological loss and harm to the living resources of the Area.] For the avoidance of doubt, strict liability in this context applies the polluter pays principle, and means, it is not necessary to prove that a Contractor intended to commit or was reckless as to committing a wrongful act or omission, it is necessary only to demonstrate unpermitted damage or harm arose as a result of a Contractor’s wrongful act for the Contractor to be held liable for that damage or harm.] 7.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any [wrongful] environmental damage caused by Contractor activities that were not foreseen in the Plan of Work or that arise from a breach of any conditions of approval, including arising from activities of the Contractor. 7.3 The Authority shall be liable to the Contractor for the actual amount of any damage caused to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] or third parties. 7.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor [its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this Contract] against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2 of the Convention.; Section 8. Force Majeure 8.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Contract due to Force Majeure, provided the Contractor has taken all reasonable steps to overcome the delay or obstacle to performance. For the purposes of this Contract, Force Majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by Contractor action, negligence or by a failure to observe Good Industry Practice. 8.2 The Contractor shall give written notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure as soon as reasonably possible after its occurrence (specifying the nature of the event or circumstance, what is required to remedy the event or circumstance and if a remedy is possible, the estimated time to cure or overcome the event or circumstance and the obligations that cannot be properly or timely performed on account of the event or circumstance) and similarly give written notice to the Authority of the Restoration of normal conditions. 8.3 The Contractor shall, upon request to the Secretary-General, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by Force Majeure and the term of this Contract shall be extended accordingly.; Section 9. Extension 9.1 [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation 20.] [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Section 15. No waiver No waiver by either party of any rights pursuant to a breach of the terms and conditions of this Contract to be performed by the other party shall be construed as a waiver by the party of any succeeding breach of the same or any other term or condition to be performed by the other party.; Section 16. Modification of terms and conditions of this Contract 16.1 When circumstances have arisen or are likely to arise after this Contract has commenced which, in the opinion of the Authority or the Contractor would render this Contract inequitable or make it impracticable or impossible to achieve the objectives set out in this Contract or in Part XI of the Convention, the parties shall enter into negotiations to revise it accordingly. 16.2 This Contract may be revised by agreement between the Contractor and the Authority. 16.3 This Contract may be revised only:; Section 17. Applicable law 17.1 This Contract is governed by the terms of this Contract, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 17.2 The Contractor, shall observe the applicable law referred to in Section 17.1 hereof and shall not engage in any transaction, directly or indirectly, prohibited by the applicable law. 17.3 Nothing contained in this Contract shall be deemed an exemption from the necessity of applying for and obtaining any permit or authority that may be required for any activities under this Contract. 17.4 The division of this Contract into sections and subsections and the insertion of headings are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation hereof.; Section 18. Disputes Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this Contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XII of the Regulations.; Section 19. Notice Any notice provided to or from one party to another pursuant to this Contract shall be provided in accordance with the notice provision set out at regulation 91 of the Regulations.; Section 20. Schedules This Contract includes the schedules to this Contract, which shall be an integral part hereof.; Annex X bis ter [Alt.] Design Criteria for Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones Applicants must establish suitable and effective Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones in order to monitor the Environmental Impacts of their activities. The following parameters shall apply in the designation of Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones. Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones must be situated within the Contract Area (and the Contract Area may need to be selected around the need for appropriate Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones, especially where multiple or large reference zones are required) The applicant needs to demonstrate that the Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones are environmentally [ecologically] similar before the commencement of mining. Additional Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones have to be introduced subsequently, once areas ecologically dissimilar from the primary Preservation Reference Zones are impacted, to warrant future comparability. To designate representative IRZs/PRZs requires characterisation of the pelagic and benthic environment including all sub-habitats that may be impacted by Exploitation activitiesmining operations, and determination of regional distributions and patterns of connectivity of communities. Temporal variation must also be evaluated over multiple years. Impact Reference Zones must be zones where direct impacts from mining are predicted to occur once mining commences. All types of impact [from mining-related activities in any Contract Area identified in the Environmental Impact Statement], must correspond with [at least 1] IRZ[/IRZs] which will enable the Contractor to monitor these impacts. Designation of multiple IRZs [(or a very large IRZ) may be necessary is possible] for this purpose. The area(s) of the Impact Reference Zones needs to be sufficiently large and representative to allow adequate assessment of recovery of populations and environmental conditions after the Exploitation activities, in accordance with the applicable relevant Standards and taking into consideration account relevant Guidelines. Preservation Reference Zones will be important in identifying natural variations in environmental conditions against which impacts shall be assessed and must be comparable to that of the Impact Areas, in accordance with the applicable relevant Standards and, taking into consideration account the relevant Guidelines. [The abiotic and biotic baseline data include but are not limited to the quantity and quality of mineral resources, species composition and habitat types.] Preservation Reference Zones must be areas that will not be impacted by Exploitation activities from any Contractor, including impacts from operational and discharge plumes and including during the post-closure period. Preservation Reference Zones should must also be free from impacts of other industrial activities. Preservation Reference Zones should must have to remain unimpacted throughout the post-mining monitoring period. Where a Contract Area consists of several disjunct sub-areas that are isolated from each other, then each of those areas would require a corresponding Preservation Reference Zone and Impact Reference Zone. Use of multiple Preservation Reference Zones and Impact Reference Zones should be considered for increase in statistical rigour, and chance of detecting effects and adding redundancy in case of unexpected variation/plan changes. The area of the Preservation Reference Zone needs to be sufficiently large to contain sufficiently large populations to guarantee long-term survival. The Preservation Reference Zone will also require a buffer zone around it to protect the populations and ensure maintenance of natural environmental conditions in the Preservation Reference Zone. Abiotic and biotic parameters, within the IRZ and PRZ will need to be monitored to quantify impacts. This includes but is not limited to monitoring species diversity and function. To establish an adequate baseline and to find suitable indicator species (e.g., the sensitive species that will suffer most from an impact, key-stone species that are crucial for ecosystem processes, or species which abundance indicates a disrupted ecosystem functioning), it will be necessary to catalogue most species in the IRZ and PRZ in question and unravel their functions. This will require sufficient sampling effort to collect sample sizes that allow for a meaningful comparison (i.e., with high statistical power). The longevity of PRZs and duration of post-monitoring are important. The duration of post-mining monitoring should last until [monitoring results show a trajectory towards recovery. Post-mining monitoring should be described in the final EMMP and/or Closure Plan] no measurable difference between IRZ and PRZ can be detected anymore. [13 Alt. Post mining monitoring shall continue until [monitoring show a trajectory towards recovery of] ecosystem function [returns to the level of the pre-mining condition] agreed within the EMMP/Closure Plan and taking into account the time taken to reach a new equilibrium state.] Isolation of Preservation Reference Zone is important. Any Preservation Reference Zone will by definition have to remain unimpacted throughout the post-mining monitoring period. [ To designate representative IRZs/PRZs requires characterisation of the pelagic and benthic environment including all sub-habitats that may be impacted by Exploitation activitiesmining operations, and determination of regional distributions and patterns of connectivity of communities. Temporal variation must also be evaluated over multiple years.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 22; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 6. Rapport annuel; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 10. Forme des demandes; Article 12. Superficie totale de la zone visée par la demande; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 15. Engagements Dans sa demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration, tout demandeur, y compris l’Entreprise, s’engage par écrit vis-à-vis de l’Autorité à : a) Accepter comme exécutoires et respecter les obligations qui lui incombent en vertu de la Convention et des règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, des décisions des organes de l’Autorité et des clauses des contrats qu’il a conclus avec celle-ci;; Article 17. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 18. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 21. Droit afférent aux demandes; Article 22. Réception, accusé de réception et garde des demandes Le Secrétaire général : a) Accuse réception par écrit, dans les 30 jours de sa réception, de toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration soumis conformément à la présente Partie, en spécifiant la date de la réception;; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 25. Le contrat; Article 26. Droits du contractant; Article 27. Superficie du secteur et restitution; Article 28. Durée des contrats; Article 29. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 30. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 31. Cessation du patronage; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 34. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 36. Droits des États côtiers; Article 37. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, et leur emplacement, ainsi que toute mesure de conservation ou de protection qu’il a prise. Le Secrétaire général transmet immédiatement ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 38. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 39. Protection de la confidentialité; Article 40. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Article 41. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 42. Différends; Article 43. Ressources autres que les encroûtements cobaltifères Si un prospecteur ou un contractant trouve dans la Zone des ressources autres que des encroûtements cobaltifères, la prospection, l’exploration et l’exploitation de ces ressources sont soumises aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité concernant ces ressources, conformément à la Convention et à l’Accord. Le prospecteur ou le contractant notifie sa découverte à l’Autorité.; Article 44. Révision; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Section V. Engagements; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article I. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au Contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 2. Garantie du titre 2.1 Le Contractant a la garantie du titre et le présent contrat ne peut être suspendu, résilié ou révisé que conformément à ses articles 20, 21 et 24. 2.2 Le Contractant a le droit exclusif d’explorer les encroûtements cobaltifères dans la zone d’exploration conformément aux clauses du présent contrat. L’Autorité veille à ce qu’aucune autre entité n’exerce dans la même zone des activités portant sur une catégorie différente de ressources d’une façon qui puisse gêner outre mesure celles que mène le Contractant. 2.3 Le Contractant a le droit, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, de renoncer à tout moment à tout ou partie de ses droits sur la zone d’exploration sans encourir de pénalité étant entendu qu’il demeure tenu de toutes les obligations qu’il a contractées avant la date de cette renonciation en ce qui concerne la zone à laquelle il renonce. 2.4 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être considérée comme conférant au Contractant d’autres droits que ceux qui y sont expressément prévus. L’Autorité se réserve le droit de conclure avec des tiers des contrats concernant les ressources autres que les encroûtements cobaltifères de la zone visée par le présent contrat.; Article 3. Durée du contrat 3.1 Le présent contrat entrera en vigueur à la date de sa signature par les deux parties et restera en vigueur pendant une période de quinze ans à compter de cette date à moins : a) Que le Contractant n’obtienne un contrat d’exploitation dans la zone d’exploration entrant en vigueur avant l’expiration de la période de 15 ans; ou; Article 4. Exploration 4.1 Le Contractant entreprend l’exploration conformément au calendrier arrêté dans le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat et respecte ce calendrier ou toute modification y afférente comme il est prévu par le présent contrat. 4.2 Le Contractant exécute le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat. Ce faisant, pour chaque année du contrat, il consacre aux dépenses effectives et directes d’exploration un montant au moins équivalant à celui qui est prévu dans le programme considéré ou dans toute modification y afférente. 4.3 Le Contractant peut, avec le consentement de l’Autorité, que celle-ci ne peut refuser sans motif raisonnable, apporter de temps à autre au programme d’activités et aux dépenses qui y sont prévues les modifications pouvant être nécessaires et prudentes selon la bonne pratique de l’industrie minière et compte tenu de la situation sur le marché des métaux que renferment les encroûtements cobaltifères et de la situation économique générale. 4.4 Le Contractant et le Secrétaire général procèdent conjointement à l’examen des résultats des activités d’exploration menées en vertu du présent contrat, au plus tard 90 jours avant l’expiration de chaque période de cinq ans à compter de la date d’entrée en vigueur prévue à l’article 3. Le Secrétaire général peut exiger du Contractant qu’il lui communique les données et informations supplémentaires pouvant être nécessaires pour cet examen. À l’issue de cet examen, le Contractant apporte à son plan de travail les ajustements nécessaires, indique son programme d’activités pour la période de cinq ans suivante, y compris un calendrier révisé des dépenses annuelles qu’il prévoit. L’annexe 2 est modifiée en conséquence.; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le Contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le Contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 7. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le Contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, et leur emplacement, ainsi que toute mesure de conservation ou de protection qu’il a prise. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.; Article 9. Livres et pièces comptables Le Contractant tient une série complète et appropriée de livres, comptes et états financiers conformes aux principes comptables internationalement reconnus. Ces livres, comptes et états financiers doivent contenir des informations renseignant pleinement sur les dépenses engagées effectivement et directement pour l’exploration et tous autres renseignements susceptibles de faciliter un audit effectif de ces dépenses.; Article 10. Rapports annuels 10.1 Le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général, au plus tard 90 jours après la fin de chaque année civile, un rapport, sous la forme recommandée de temps à autre par la Commission juridique et technique, sur les activités qu’il a menées dans la zone d’exploration comportant, le cas échéant, des renseignements suffisamment détaillés sur : a) Les activités d’exploration menées au cours de l’année civile, y compris les cartes, diagrammes et graphiques illustrant les travaux effectués et les résultats obtenus;; Article 11. Données et informations à présenter à l’expiration du contrat 11.1 Le Contractant communique à l’Autorité toutes données et informations pertinentes qui lui sont nécessaires pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration, conformément aux dispositions du présent article. 11.2 À l’expiration ou à la résiliation du présent contrat, le Contractant, s’il ne l’a pas encore fait, présente au Secrétaire général les données et informations ci-après : a) Copie de toutes les données géologiques, environnementales, géochimiques et géophysiques pertinentes qu’il a acquises au cours de l’exécution du programme d’activités et qui sont nécessaires à l’Autorité pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration;; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le Contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le Contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le Contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés conformément en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout Contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination en matière d’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceuxci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le Contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le Contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le Contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le Contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le Contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le Contractant ni une entreprise apparentée ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent d’aucune manière faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les encroûtements cobaltifères se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du Contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le Contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 19. Renonciation Le Contractant peut, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, renoncer à ses droits et résilier le présent contrat sans encourir de pénalité, étant toutefois entendu qu’il reste en ce cas tenu par toutes les obligations qu’il aura pu contracter avant la date de cette renonciation et par celles qui lui incombent après la résiliation en application du Règlement.; Article 20. Cessation du patronage 20.1 Si la nationalité du Contractant ou l’entité qui le contrôle change ou si l’État qui le patronne, tel qu’il est défini dans le Règlement, met fin à son patronage, le Contractant en informe l’Autorité sans délai. 20.2 Dans l’un et l’autre cas, si le Contractant n’obtient pas d’un autre patron réunissant les conditions prescrites par le Règlement qu’il présente à l’Autorité un certificat de patronage sous la forme prescrite et dans les délais fixés par le Règlement, le présent contrat prend immédiatement fin.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 22. Cession des droits et obligations 22.1 Les droits et obligations du Contractant au titre du présent contrat ne peuvent être cédés en tout ou partie qu’avec le consentement de l’Autorité et conformément au Règlement. 22.2 L’Autorité ne refuse pas sans motifs suffisants son consentement à la cession si le cessionnaire proposé est, à tous égards, un demandeur qualifié au regard du Règlement et assume toutes les obligations du Contractant. 22.3 Les clauses, engagements et conditions prévus par le présent contrat sont à l’avantage des parties et de leurs ayants droit et cessionnaires respectifs, et ont force obligatoire envers eux.; Article 24. Révision 24.1 Lorsqu’il se présente ou qu’il pourrait se présenter des circonstances qui, de l’avis de l’Autorité ou du Contractant, auraient pour effet de rendre le présent contrat inéquitable ou de compromettre ou d’empêcher la réalisation des objectifs prévus par celui-ci ou par la partie XI de la Convention ou par l’Accord, les parties engagent des négociations en vue de réviser ledit contrat en conséquence. 24.2 Le présent contrat peut également être révisé par accord entre le Contractant et l’Autorité afin de faciliter l’application de règles, règlements et procédures adoptés par l’Autorité après l’entrée en vigueur du présent contrat. 24.3 Le présent contrat ne peut être révisé, amendé ou autrement modifié qu’avec le consentement du Contractant et de l’Autorité exprimé dans un instrument approprié signé par les représentants autorisés des parties.; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 En application de l’article 21 2) de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du Contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État partie à la Convention affecté par elle.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du Contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un document électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins dix jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un courrier électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du Contractant vaut notification au Contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du Contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.; Article 27. Droit applicable 27.1 Le présent contrat est régi par ses dispositions, les règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, la partie XI de la Convention, l’Accord et les autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 27.2 Le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes les personnes travaillant ou agissant pour eux dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat observent le droit applicable visé à l’article 27.1 ci-dessus et ne se livrent directement ou indirectement à aucune transaction interdite par ce droit. 27.3 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être interprétée comme dispensant de la nécessité de demander et d’obtenir le permis ou l’autorisation pouvant être requis pour l’une quelconque des activités prévues par le présent contrat.
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Часть II. Поиск; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Часть III. Заявки на утверждение планов работы по разведке в форме контракта; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 10. Форма заявок; Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 13. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 14. Предыдущие контракты с Органом Если заявитель или — в случае представления заявки партнерством или консорциумом субъектов, осуществляющих деятельность совместно, — любой участник партнерства или консорциума ранее заключал какой-либо контракт с Органом, в заявке указывается: a) дата предыдущего контракта (контрактов);; Правило 15. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений соответствующих органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 16. Право заявителя на выбор между передачей зарезервированного района или предложением доли в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия Каждый заявитель в своей заявке выбирает либо: a) передать зарезервированный район для проведения деятельности согласно статье 9 приложения III к Конвенции в соответствии с правилом 17; либо; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 19. Доля в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Правило 22. Получение, подтверждение и хранение заявок Генеральный секретарь: a) в течение 30 дней в письменном виде подтверждает получение каждой заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке, представленной согласно настоящей части, с указанием даты получения;; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 24. Рассмотрение и утверждение Советом планов работы по разведке Совет рассматривает доклады и рекомендации Юридической и технической комиссии, касающиеся утверждения планов работы по разведке, в соответствии с пунктами 11 и 12 раздела 3 приложения к Соглашению.; Часть IV. Контракты на разведку; Правило 25. Контракт; Правило 26. Права контрактора; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 28. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 29. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 приложения III Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Правило 30. Периодический обзор осуществления плана работы по разведке; Правило 31. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 32. Ответственность Материальная и иная ответственность контрактора и Органа регулируется Конвенцией. Контрактор продолжает нести ответственность за любой ущерб, причиненный в результате неправомерных действий, допущенных им при осуществлении своей деятельности, в частности ущерб морской среде, по окончании этапа разведки.; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 37. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь незамедлительно препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисково-разведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 38. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 39. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Правило 40. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Правило 41. Рекомендации, призванные сориентировать контракторов; Правило 42. Споры; Правило 43. Ресурсы помимо кобальтовых корок Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо кобальтовых корок, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Правило 44. Обзор; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Приложение II. Заявка на утверждение плана работы по разведке для получения контракта; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информация; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел V. Обязательства; Раздел VI. Предыдущие контракты; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » ______________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Приложение IV; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров; Раздел 9. Книги и записи Контрактор содержит в соответствии с международно принятыми принципами учета полный и надлежащий комплект книг, счетов и финансовых записей. Такие книги, счета и финансовые записи включают информацию, которая дает полный отчет о фактических прямых затратах на разведку, и такую другую информацию, которая позволяет произвести эффективную ревизию таких расходов.; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 16. Ответственность; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно кобальтовых корок в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 22. Передача прав и обязательств; Раздел 24. Пересмотр; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第6条年度报告; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条申请书涵盖的总区域; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第14条以前同管理局订立的合同如果申请者，或在申请是联合安排中由实体组成的合伙企业或联营企业提出时，任何合伙者或联营者，以前曾同管理局订立任何合同，则申请书应载列：; 第15条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，各申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第16条申请者选择提供保留区或提供在一个联合企业安排中的股份每一申请者在申请书中应选择：; 第17条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第21条申请费; 第22条申请书的收受、确认和妥善保管秘书长应：; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第24条理事会对勘探工作计划的审议和核准理事会应按照《协定》附件第 3 节第 11 和第 12 段的规定审议法律和技术委员会关于核准勘探工作计划的报告和建议。; 第25条合同; 第26条承包者的权利; 第27条区域面积和放弃; 第28条合同期限; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同所涉所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第31条担保的终止; 第32条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第37条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应立即将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，在理事会考虑到联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事或任何其他主管国际组织的意见后另有决定之前，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探。; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第39条确保机密性的程序; 第40条通知和一般程序; 第41条指导承包者的建议; 第42条争端; 第43条钴结壳以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现钴结壳以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 8. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature A prospector shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the Area of an object of actual or potential archaeological or historical nature and its location. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 12. Total area covered by the application; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 14. Previous contracts with the Authority Where the applicant or, in the case of an application by a partnership or consortium of entities in a joint arrangement, any member of the partnership or consortium, has previously been awarded any contract with the Authority, the application shall include:; Regulation 15. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 17. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 19. Equity interest in a joint venture arrangement; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 21. Fee for applications; Regulation 22. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 24. Consideration and approval of plans of work for exploration by the Council The Council shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Legal and Technical Commission relating to approval of plans of work for exploration in accordance with paragraphs 11 and 12 of section 3 of the annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 25. The contract; Regulation 26. Rights of the contractor; Regulation 27. Size of area and relinquishment; Regulation 28. Duration of contracts; Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Regulation 30. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 31. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 32. Responsibility and liability Responsibility and liability of the contractor and of the Authority shall be in accordance with the Convention. The contractor shall continue to have responsibility for any damage arising out of wrongful acts in the conduct of its operations, in particular damage to the marine environment, after the completion of the exploration phase.; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 37. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall immediately transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Regulation 38. Confidentiality of data and information; Regulation 39. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 40. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 41. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 42. Disputes; Regulation 43. Resources other than cobalt crusts If a prospector or contractor finds resources in the Area other than cobalt crusts, the prospecting and exploration for and exploitation of such resources shall be subject to the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority relating to such resources in accordance with the Convention and the Agreement. The prospector or contractor shall notify the Authority of its find.; Regulation 44. Review; Annex II. Application for approval of a plan of work for exploration to obtain a contract; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section V. Undertakings; Section VI. Previous contracts; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Annex IV. Standard clauses for exploration contract; Section 1. Definitions 1.1 In the following clauses:; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for cobalt crusts in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than cobalt crusts with third parties in the area covered by this contract.; Section 3. Contract term 3.1 This contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and shall remain in force for a period of fifteen years thereafter unless:; Section 4. Exploration 4.1 The Contractor shall commence exploration in accordance with the time schedule stipulated in the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto and shall adhere to such time periods or any modification thereto as provided for by this contract. 4.2 The Contractor shall carry out the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto. In carrying out such activities the Contractor shall spend in each contract year not less than the amount specified in such programme, or any agreed review thereof, in actual and direct exploration expenditures. 4.3 The Contractor, with the consent of the Authority, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, may from time to time make such changes in the programme of activities and the expenditures specified therein as may be necessary and prudent in accordance with good mining industry practice, and taking into account the market conditions for the metals contained in cobalt crusts and other relevant global economic conditions. 4.4 Not later than 90 days prior to the expiration of each five-year period from the date on which this contract enters into force in accordance with section 3 hereof, the Contractor and the Secretary-General shall jointly undertake a review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration under this contract. The Secretary-General may require the Contractor to submit such additional data and information as may be necessary for the purposes of the review. In the light of the review, the Contractor shall make such adjustments to its plan of work as are 38 12-57345 necessary and shall indicate its programme of activities for the following five-year period, including a revised schedule of anticipated yearly expenditures. Schedule 2 hereto shall be adjusted accordingly.; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 7. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The Contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall 40 12-57345 transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 9. Books and records The Contractor shall keep a complete and proper set of books, accounts and financial records, consistent with internationally accepted accounting principles. Such books, accounts and financial records shall include information which will fully disclose the actual and direct expenditures for exploration and such other information as will facilitate an effective audit of such expenditures.; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 11. Data and information to be submitted on expiration of the contract 11.1 The Contractor shall transfer to the Authority all data and information that are both necessary for and relevant to the effective exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority in respect of the exploration area in accordance with the provisions of this section. 11.2 Upon expiration or termination of this contract the Contractor, if it has not already done so, shall submit the following data and information to the SecretaryGeneral:; Section 12. Confidentiality Data and information transferred to the Authority in accordance with this contract shall be treated as confidential in accordance with the provisions of the Regulations.; Section 13. Undertakings 13.1 The Contractor shall carry out exploration in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, the Regulations, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 13.2 The Contractor undertakes:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 15. Safety, labour and health standards 15.1 The Contractor shall comply with the generally accepted international rules and standards established by competent international organizations or general diplomatic conferences concerning the safety of life at sea, and the prevention of collisions and such rules, regulations and procedures as may be adopted by the Authority relating to safety at sea. Each vessel used for carrying out activities in the Area shall possess current valid certificates required by and issued pursuant to such international rules and standards. 15.2 The Contractor shall, in carrying out exploration under this contract, observe and comply with such rules, regulations and procedures as may be adopted by the Authority relating to protection against discrimination in employment, occupational safety and health, labour relations, social security, employment security and living conditions at the work site. Such rules, regulations and procedures shall take into account conventions and recommendations of the International Labour Organization and other competent international organizations.; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 18. Disclaimer Neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company or subcontractor shall in any manner claim or suggest, whether expressly or by implication, that the Authority or any official thereof has, or has expressed, any opinion with respect to cobalt crusts in the exploration area and a statement to that effect shall not be included in or endorsed on any prospectus, notice, circular, advertisement, press release or similar document issued by the Contractor, any affiliated company or any subcontractor that refers directly or indirectly to this contract. For the purposes of this section, an “affiliated company” means any person, firm or company or State-owned entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Contractor.; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations. 46 12-57345; Section 20. Termination of sponsorship 20.1 If the nationality or control of the Contractor changes or the Contractor’s sponsoring State, as defined in the Regulations, terminates its sponsorship, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Authority forthwith. 20.2 In either such event, if the Contractor does not obtain another sponsor meeting the requirements prescribed in the Regulations which submits to the Authority a certificate of sponsorship for the Contractor in the prescribed form within the time specified in the Regulations, this contract shall terminate forthwith.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 22. Transfer of rights and obligations 22.1 The rights and obligations of the Contractor under this contract may be transferred in whole or in part only with the consent of the Authority and in accordance with the Regulations. 22.2 The Authority shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the transfer if the proposed transferee is in all respects a qualified applicant in accordance with the Regulations and assumes all of the obligations of the Contractor. 22.3 The terms, undertakings and conditions of this contract shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.; Section 23. No waiver No waiver by either party of any rights pursuant to a breach of the terms and conditions of this contract to be performed by the other party shall be construed as a waiver by the party of any succeeding breach of the same or any other term or condition to be performed by the other party.; Section 24. Revision 24.1 When circumstances have arisen or are likely to arise which, in the opinion of the Authority or the Contractor, would render this contract inequitable or make it impracticable or impossible to achieve the objectives set out in this contract or in; Section 25. Disputes 25.1 Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XI, section 5, of the Convention. 25.2 In accordance with article 21 (2) of annex III to the Convention, any final decision rendered by a court or tribunal having jurisdiction under the Convention relating to the rights and obligations of the Authority and of the Contractor shall be enforceable in the territory of any State party to the Convention affected thereby.; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, fax, registered airmail or e-mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an electronic document containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by fax shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published fax number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An e-mail is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction.; Section 27. Applicable law 27.1 This contract shall be governed by the terms of this contract, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 27.2 The Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract shall observe the applicable law referred to in section 27.1 hereof and shall not engage in any transaction, directly or indirectly, prohibited by the applicable law. 27.3 Nothing contained in this contract shall be deemed an exemption from the necessity of applying for and obtaining any permit or authority that may be required for any activities under this contract.; Section 28. Interpretation The division of this contract into sections and subsections and the insertion of headings are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation hereof.; Section 29. Additional documents Each party hereto agrees to execute and deliver all such further instruments, and to do and perform all such further acts and things as may be necessary or expedient to give effect to the provisions of this contract.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 22; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 6. Rapport annuel; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 10. Forme des demandes; Article 12. Capacité financière et technique; Article 14. Engagements Dans sa demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration, tout demandeur, y compris l’Entreprise, s’engage par écrit vis-à-vis de l’Autorité à : a) Accepter comme exécutoires et respecter les obligations qui lui incombent en vertu de la Convention et des règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, des décisions des organes de l’Autorité et des clauses des contrats qu’il a conclus avec celle-ci;; Article 15. Superficie totale de la zone visée par la demande Toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration doit délimiter, conformément aux normes internationales généralement acceptées les plus récentes utilisées par l’Autorité, la zone qu’elle vise en en indiquant la liste des coordonnées géographiques. Les demandes autres que celles présentées en vertu de l’article 17 doivent couvrir une zone, pas nécessairement d’un seul tenant, ayant une superficie totale et une valeur commerciale estimative suffisantes pour permettre deux opérations d’extraction minière. Le demandeur indique les coordonnées permettant de diviser la zone en deux parties de valeur commerciale estimative égale. L’attribution de zones est subordonnée aux dispositions de l’article 25.; Article 16. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 17. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 18. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration Tout demandeur soumet, en vue d’obtenir l’approbation de son plan de travail relatif à l’exploration sous la forme d’un contrat, les informations suivantes : a) La description générale et le calendrier du programme d’exploration proposé, y compris le programme d’activités pour les cinq années à venir, tels que les études à réaliser concernant les facteurs écologiques, techniques, économiques et autres facteurs appropriés à prendre en compte pour l’exploration;; Article 19. Droit afférent aux demandes; Article 20. Réception, accusé de réception et garde des demandes Le Secrétaire général : a) Accuse réception par écrit, dans les 30 jours de sa réception, de toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration soumis conformément à la présente partie, en spécifiant la date de la réception;; Article 21. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 23. Le contrat; Article 24. Droits du contractant; Article 25. Superficie du secteur et restitution; Article 26. Durée des contrats; Article 27. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 28. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 29. Cessation du patronage; Article 30. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 31. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 32. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 33. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 34. Droits des États côtiers; Article 35. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique et leur emplacement, ainsi que les mesures de conservation et de protection qu’il a prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 36. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 37. Protection de la confidentialité; Article 38. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Article 39. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 40. Différends; Article 41. Ressources autres que les nodules polymétalliques Si un prospecteur ou un contractant trouve dans la Zone des ressources autres que des nodules polymétalliques, la prospection, l’exploration et l’exploitation de ces ressources sont soumises aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité concernant ces ressources, conformément à la Convention et à l’Accord. Le prospecteur ou le contractant notifie sa découverte à l’Autorité.; Article 42. Révision; Section III. Informations financières et techniquesa; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Section V. Engagements; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 1. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 2. Garantie du titre 2.1 Le contractant a la garantie du titre et le présent contrat ne peut être suspendu, résilié ou révisé que conformément à ses articles 20, 21 et 24. 2.2 Le contractant a le droit exclusif d’explorer les nodules polymétalliques dans la zone d’exploration conformément aux clauses du présent contrat. L’Autorité veille à ce qu’aucune autre entité n’exerce dans la même zone des activités portant sur une catégorie différente de ressources d’une façon qui puisse gêner outre mesure celles que mène le contractant. 2.3 Le contractant a le droit, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, de renoncer à tout moment à tout ou partie de ses droits sur la zone d’exploration sans encourir de pénalité étant entendu qu’il demeure tenu de toutes les obligations qu’il a contractées avant la date de cette renonciation en ce qui concerne la zone à laquelle il renonce. 2.4 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être considérée comme conférant au contractant d’autres droits que ceux qui y sont expressément prévus. L’Autorité se réserve le droit de conclure avec des tiers des contrats concernant les ressources autres que les nodules polymétalliques de la zone visée par le présent contrat.; Article 3. Durée du contrat 3.1 Le présent contrat prendra effet à la date de sa signature par les deux parties et restera en vigueur pendant une période de 15 ans à compter de cette date à moins : a) Que le contractant n’obtienne un contrat d’exploitation dans la zone d’exploration entrant en vigueur avant l’expiration de la période de 15 ans; ou; Article 4. Exploration 4.1 Le contractant entreprend l’exploration conformément au calendrier arrêté dans le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat et respecte ce calendrier ou toute modification y afférente comme il est prévu par le présent contrat. 4.2 Le contractant exécute le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat. Ce faisant, pour chaque année du contrat, il consacre aux dépenses effectives et directes d’exploration un montant au moins équivalent à celui qui est prévu dans le programme considéré ou dans toute modification y afférente. 4.3 Le contractant peut, avec le consentement de l’Autorité, que celle-ci ne peut refuser sans motif raisonnable, apporter de temps à autre au programme d’activités et aux dépenses qui y sont prévues les modifications pouvant être nécessaires et prudentes selon la bonne pratique de l’industrie minière et compte tenu de la situation sur le marché des métaux que renferment les nodules polymétalliques et de la situation économique générale. 4.4 Le contractant et le Secrétaire général procèdent conjointement à l’examen des résultats des activités d’exploration menées en vertu du présent contrat, au plus tard 90 jours avant l’expiration de chaque période de cinq ans à compter de la date d’entrée en vigueur prévue à l’article 3. Le Secrétaire général peut exiger du contractant qu’il lui communique les données et informations supplémentaires pouvant être nécessaires pour cet examen. À l’issue de cet examen, le contractant apporte à son plan de travail les ajustements nécessaires, indique son programme d’activités pour la période de cinq ans suivante, y compris un calendrier révisé des dépenses annuelles qu’il prévoit. L’annexe 2 est modifiée en conséquence.; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 7. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, et leur emplacement, ainsi que les mesures de conservation et de protection qu’il a prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le contractant. 8.3 Le contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.; Article 9. Livres et pièces comptables Le contractant tient une série complète et appropriée de livres, comptes et états financiers conformes aux principes comptables internationalement reconnus. Ces livres, comptes et états financiers doivent contenir des informations renseignant pleinement sur les dépenses engagées effectivement et directement pour l’exploration et tous autres renseignements susceptibles de faciliter un audit effectif de ces dépenses.; Article 10. Rapports annuels 10.1 Le contractant soumet au Secrétaire général, au plus tard 90 jours après la fin de chaque année civile, un rapport, sous la forme recommandée de temps à autre par la Commission juridique et technique, sur les activités qu’il a menées dans la zone d’exploration comportant, le cas échéant, des renseignements suffisamment détaillés sur : a) Les activités d’exploration menées au cours de l’année civile, y compris les cartes, diagrammes et graphiques illustrant les travaux effectués et les résultats obtenus;; Article 11. Données et informations à présenter à l’expiration du contrat 11.1 Le contractant communique à l’Autorité toutes données et informations pertinentes qui lui sont nécessaires pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration, conformément aux dispositions du présent article. 11.2 À l’expiration ou à la résiliation du présent contrat, le contractant, s’il ne l’a pas encore fait, présente au Secrétaire général les données et informations ci-après : a) Copie de toutes les données géologiques, environnementales, géochimiques et géophysiques pertinentes qu’il a acquises au cours de l’exécution du programme d’activités et qui sont nécessaires à l’Autorité pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration;; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination dans l’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le contractant, ni une entreprise apparentée, ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les nodules polymétalliques se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 19. Renonciation Le contractant peut, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, renoncer à ses droits et résilier le présent contrat sans encourir de pénalité, étant toutefois entendu qu’il reste en ce cas tenu par toutes les obligations qu’il aura pu contracter avant la date de cette renonciation et par celles qui lui incombent après la résiliation en application du Règlement.; Article 20. Cessation du patronage 20.1 Si la nationalité du contractant ou l’entité qui le contrôle change ou si l’État qui le patronne, tel qu’il est défini dans le Règlement, met fin à son patronage, le contractant en informe l’Autorité sans délai. 20.2 Dans l’un et l’autre cas, si le contractant n’obtient pas d’un autre patron réunissant les conditions prescrites par le Règlement qu’il présente à l’Autorité un certificat de patronage sous la forme prescrite et dans les délais fixés par le Règlement, le présent contrat prend immédiatement fin.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 22. Cession des droits et obligations 22.1 Les droits et obligations du contractant au titre du présent contrat ne peuvent être cédés en tout ou partie qu’avec le consentement de l’Autorité et conformément au Règlement. 22.2 L’Autorité ne refuse pas sans motifs suffisants son consentement à la cession si le cessionnaire proposé est, à tous égards, un demandeur qualifié au regard du Règlement et assume toutes les obligations du contractant, et si le transfert n’a pas pour résultat de lui faire attribuer un plan de travail dont l’approbation serait interdite en vertu de l’article 6 3) c) de l’annexe III de la Convention. 22.3 Les clauses, engagements et conditions prévus par le présent contrat sont à l’avantage des parties et de leurs ayants droit et cessionnaires respectifs, et ont force obligatoire envers eux.; Article 24. Révision 24.1 Lorsqu’il se présente ou qu’il pourrait se présenter des circonstances qui, de l’avis de l’Autorité ou du contractant, auraient pour effet de rendre le présent contrat inéquitable ou de compromettre ou d’empêcher la réalisation des objectifs prévus par celui-ci ou par la partie XI de la Convention ou par l’Accord, les parties engagent des négociations en vue de réviser ledit contrat en conséquence. 24.2 Le présent contrat peut également être révisé par accord entre le contractant et l’Autorité afin de faciliter l’application de règles, règlements et procédures adoptés par l’Autorité après l’entrée en vigueur du présent contrat. 24.3 Le présent contrat ne peut être révisé, amendé ou autrement modifié qu’avec le consentement du contractant et de l’Autorité exprimé dans un instrument approprié signé par les représentants autorisés des parties.; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 En application de l’article 21 2) de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État partie à la Convention affecté par elle.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un courrier électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins 10 jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un courrier électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du contractant vaut notification au contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.; Article 27. Droit applicable 27.1 Le présent contrat est régi par ses dispositions, les règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, la partie XI de la Convention, l’Accord et les autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 27.2 Le contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes les personnes travaillant ou agissant pour eux dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat observent le droit applicable visé à l’article 27.1 ci-dessus et ne se livrent directement ou indirectement à aucune transaction interdite par ce droit. 27.3 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être interprétée comme dispensant de la nécessité de demander et d’obtenir le permis ou l’autorisation pouvant être requis pour l’une quelconque des activités prévues par le présent contrat.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Часть II. Поиск; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Часть III. Заявки на утверждение планов работы по разведке в форме контракта; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 10. Форма заявок; Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 13. Предыдущие контракты с Органом Если заявитель или — в случае представления заявки партнерством или консорциумом субъектов, осуществляющих деятельность совместно, — любой участник партнерства или консорциума ранее заключал какой-либо контракт с Органом, в заявке указывается: a) дата предыдущего контракта (контрактов);; Правило 14. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 15. Целый район, указанный в заявке В каждой заявке на утверждение плана работы по разведке определяются границы заявочного района с помощью перечня географических координат, указанных в соответствии с наиболее свежим общепринятым международным стандартом, используемым Органом. В заявках (кроме заявок, подаваемых согласно правилу 17) указывается целый район, который не обязательно является единым непрерывным районом, но достаточно обширным и имеющим достаточную предположительную коммерческую ценность, чтобы позволить ведение двух операций по добыче. Заявитель указывает координаты, разделяющие район на две части одинаковой предположительной коммерческой ценности. Район, выделяемый заявителю, регулируется положениями правила 25.; Правило 16. Данные и информация, представленные до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 17. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке Каждый заявитель в целях утверждения плана работы по разведке в форме контракта представляет следующую информацию: a) общее описание и график предлагаемой программы разведки, включая программу деятельности на ближайший пятилетний период, как то запланированные исследования в отношении экологических, технических, экономических и прочих соответствующих факторов, которые должны учитываться при разведке;; Правило 19. Сбор за заявку; Правило 20. Получение, подтверждение и хранение заявок Генеральный секретарь: a) в письменном виде в течение 30 дней подтверждает получение каждой заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке, представленной согласно настоящей части, с указанием даты получения;; Правило 21. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 22. Рассмотрение и утверждение Советом планов работы по разведке Совет рассматривает доклады и рекомендации Комиссии, касающиеся утверждения планов работы по разведке, в соответствии с пунктами 11 и 12 раздела 3 приложения к Соглашению.; Часть IV. Контракты на разведку; Правило 23. Контракт; Правило 24. Права контрактора; Правило 25. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 26. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 27. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 Приложения III Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Правило 28. Периодический обзор осуществления плана работы по разведке; Правило 29. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 30. Ответственность Материальная и иная ответственность контрактора и Органа регулируется Конвенцией. Контрактор продолжает нести ответственность за любой ущерб, причиненный в результате неправомерных действий, допущенных им при осуществлении своей деятельности, в частности ущерб морской среде, по окончании этапа разведки.; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 32. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 33. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 34. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 35. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 36. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 37. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Правило 38. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Правило 39. Рекомендации, призванные сориентировать контракторов; Правило 40. Споры; Правило 41. Ресурсы помимо полиметаллических конкреций Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо полиметаллических конкреций, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Правило 42. Обзор; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Приложение II. Заявка на утверждение плана работы по разведке для получения контракта; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информацияa; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел V. Обязательства; Раздел VI. Предыдущие контракты; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИМ КОНТРАКТОМ, заключенным «___» ____________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТСЯ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Приложение IV; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров; Раздел 9. Книги и записи Контрактор содержит в соответствии с международно принятыми принципами учета полный и надлежащий комплект книг, счетов и финансовых записей. Такие книги, счета и финансовые записи включают информацию, которая дает полный отчет о фактических и прямых расходах по разведке, и такую другую информацию, которая позволяет произвести эффективную ревизию таких расходов.; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 16. Ответственность; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических конкреций в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащую государству организацию, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства; Раздел 21. Приостановление или прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 22. Передача прав и обязательств; Раздел 24. Пересмотр; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的考虑; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第6条年度报告; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条财政和技术能力; 第13条以前同管理局订立的合同如果申请者，或在申请是联合安排中由实体组成的合伙企业或联营企业提出时，任何合伙者或联营者以前曾同管理局订立任何合同，则申请书应包括：; 第14条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，每个申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第15条申请的总区域每一份请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书应以符合管理局采用的最新公认国际标准的坐标表界定所申请区域的界限。除了第 17 条下的申请外，申请应包括一个总区域，它不必是一个单一连续的区域，但应足够大，并有足够的估计商业价值，可供从事两起采矿作业。申请者应列明坐标，将该区域分为估计商业价值相等的两个部分。分配给申请者的区域应受第 25 条各项规定的限制。; 第16条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第17条请求核准保留区工作计划的申请; 第18条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料为了使合同形式的勘探工作计划获得核准，每一申请者应提交下列资料：; 第19条申请费; 第20条申请书的收受、确认和妥善保管; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第22条理事会对勘探工作计划的审议和核准理事会应按照《协定》附件第 3 节第 11 和第 12 段的规定审议委员会关于核准勘探工作计划的报告和建议。; 第23条合同; 第24条承包者的权利; 第25条区域面积和放弃; 第26条合同期限; 第27条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第28条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第29条担保的终止; 第30条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第32条环境基线和监测; 第33条紧急命令; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第35条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将此事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应立即将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，在理事会考虑到联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事或任何其他主管国际组织的意见后另有决定之前，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探。; 第36条数据和资料的机密性; 第37条确保机密性的程序; 第38条通知和一般程序; 第39条指导承包者的建议; 第40条争端; 第41条多金属结核以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属结核以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 8. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature A prospector shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the Area of an object of actual or potential archaeological or historical nature and its location. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 12. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 13. Previous contracts with the Authority Where the applicant or, in the case of an application by a partnership or consortium of entities in a joint arrangement, any member of the partnership or consortium, has previously been awarded any contract with the Authority, the application shall include:; Regulation 14. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 15. Total area covered by the application Each application for approval of a plan of work for exploration shall define the boundaries of the area under application by a list of coordinates in accordance with the most recent generally accepted international standard used by the Authority. Applications other than those under regulation 17 shall cover a total area, which need not be a single continuous area, sufficiently large and of sufficient estimated commercial value to allow two mining operations. The applicant shall indicate the coordinates dividing the area into two parts of equal estimated commercial value. The area to be allocated to the applicant shall be subject to the provisions of; Regulation 16. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 17. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 18. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration Each applicant shall submit, with a view to receiving approval of the plan of work for exploration in the form of a contract, the following information:; Regulation 19. Fee for applications; Regulation 20. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications; Regulation 21. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 22. Consideration and approval of plans of work for exploration by the Council The Council shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Commission relating to approval of plans of work for exploration in accordance with paragraphs 11 and 12 of section 3 of the annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 23. The contract; Regulation 24. Rights of the contractor; Regulation 25. Size of area and relinquishment; Regulation 26. Duration of contracts; Regulation 27. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Regulation 28. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 29. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 30. Responsibility and liability Responsibility and liability of the contractor and of the Authority shall be in accordance with the Convention. The contractor shall continue to have responsibility for any damage arising out of wrongful acts in the conduct of its operations, in particular damage to the marine environment, after the completion of the exploration phase.; Regulation 31. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 32. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 33. Emergency orders; Regulation 34. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 35. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization. 22 13-40403; Regulation 36. Confidentiality of data and information; Regulation 37. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 38. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 39. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 40. Disputes; Regulation 41. Resources other than polymetallic nodules If a prospector or contractor finds resources in the Area other than polymetallic nodules, the prospecting and exploration for and exploitation of such resources shall be subject to the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority relating to such resources in accordance with the Convention and the Agreement. The prospector or contractor shall notify the Authority of its find.; Regulation 42. Review; Annex II. Application for approval of a plan of work for exploration to obtain a contract; Section III. Financial and technical informationa; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section V. Undertakings; Section VI. Previous contracts; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the ... day of ... between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and ... represented by ... (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Annex IV. Standard clauses for exploration contract; Section 1. Definitions 1.1 In the following clauses:; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for polymetallic nodules in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than polymetallic nodules with third parties in the area covered by this contract. 36 13-40403; Section 3. Contract term 3.1 This contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and shall remain in force for a period of fifteen years thereafter unless:; Section 4. Exploration 4.1 The Contractor shall commence exploration in accordance with the time schedule stipulated in the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto and shall adhere to such time periods or any modification thereto as provided for by this contract. 4.2 The Contractor shall carry out the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto. In carrying out such activities the Contractor shall spend in each contract year not less than the amount specified in such programme, or any agreed review thereof, in actual and direct exploration expenditures. 4.3 The Contractor, with the consent of the Authority, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, may from time to time make such changes in the programme of activities and the expenditures specified therein as may be necessary and prudent in accordance with good mining industry practice, and taking into account the market conditions for the metals contained in polymetallic nodules and other relevant global economic conditions. 4.4 Not later than 90 days prior to the expiration of each five-year period from the date on which this contract enters into force in accordance with section 3 hereof, the Contractor and the Secretary-General shall jointly undertake a review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration under this contract. The Secretary-General may require the Contractor to submit such additional data and information as may be necessary for the purposes of the review. In the light of the review, the Contractor shall make such adjustments to its plan of work as are necessary and shall indicate its programme of activities for the following five-year period, including a revised schedule of anticipated yearly expenditures. Schedule 2 hereto shall be adjusted accordingly.; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 7. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The Contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 9. Books and records The Contractor shall keep a complete and proper set of books, accounts and financial records, consistent with internationally accepted accounting principles. Such books, accounts and financial records shall include information which will fully disclose the actual and direct expenditures for exploration and such other information as will facilitate an effective audit of such expenditures.; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 11. Data and information to be submitted on expiration of the contract 11.1 The Contractor shall transfer to the Authority all data and information that are both necessary for and relevant to the effective exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority in respect of the exploration area in accordance with the provisions of this section. 11.2 Upon expiration or termination of this contract the Contractor, if it has not already done so, shall submit the following data and information to the SecretaryGeneral:; Section 12. Confidentiality Data and information transferred to the Authority in accordance with this contract shall be treated as confidential in accordance with the provisions of the Regulations.; Section 13. Undertakings 13.1 The Contractor shall carry out exploration in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, the Regulations, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 13.2 The Contractor undertakes:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 15. Safety, labour and health standards 15.1 The Contractor shall comply with the generally accepted international rules and standards established by competent international organizations or general diplomatic conferences concerning the safety of life at sea, and the prevention of collisions and such rules, regulations and procedures as may be adopted by the Authority relating to safety at sea. Each vessel used for carrying out activities in the Area shall possess current valid certificates required by and issued pursuant to such international rules and standards. 15.2 The Contractor shall, in carrying out exploration under this contract, observe and comply with such rules, regulations and procedures as may be adopted by the Authority relating to protection against discrimination in employment, occupational safety and health, labour relations, social security, employment security and living conditions at the work site. Such rules, regulations and procedures shall take into account conventions and recommendations of the International Labour Organization and other competent international organizations.; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its 44 13-40403 operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168 (2) of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 18. Disclaimer Neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company or subcontractor shall in any manner claim or suggest, whether expressly or by implication, that the Authority or any official thereof has, or has expressed, any opinion with respect to polymetallic nodules in the exploration area and a statement to that effect shall not be included in or endorsed on any prospectus, notice, circular, advertisement, press release or similar document issued by the Contractor, any affiliated company or any subcontractor that refers directly or indirectly to this contract. For the purposes of this section, an “affiliated company” means any person, firm or company or Stateowned entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Contractor.; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations.; Section 20. Termination of sponsorship 20.1 If the nationality or control of the Contractor changes or the Contractor’s sponsoring State, as defined in the Regulations, terminates its sponsorship, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Authority forthwith. 20.2 In either such event, if the Contractor does not obtain another sponsor meeting the requirements prescribed in the Regulations which submits to the Authority a certificate of sponsorship for the Contractor in the prescribed form within the time specified in the Regulations, this contract shall terminate forthwith.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 22. Transfer of rights and obligations 22.1 The rights and obligations of the Contractor under this contract may be transferred in whole or in part only with the consent of the Authority and in accordance with the Regulations. 22.2 The Authority shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the transfer if the proposed transferee is in all respects a qualified applicant in accordance with the Regulations and assumes all of the obligations of the Contractor and if the transfer does not confer to the transferee a plan of work, the approval of which would be forbidden by article 6, paragraph 3 (c), of annex III to the Convention. 22.3 The terms, undertakings and conditions of this contract shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.; Section 23. No waiver No waiver by either party of any rights pursuant to a breach of the terms and conditions of this contract to be performed by the other party shall be construed as a waiver by the party of any succeeding breach of the same or any other term or condition to be performed by the other party.; Section 24. Revision 24.1 When circumstances have arisen or are likely to arise which, in the opinion of the Authority or the Contractor, would render this contract inequitable or make it impracticable or impossible to achieve the objectives set out in this contract or in; Section 25. Disputes 25.1 Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XI, section 5, of the Convention. 25.2 In accordance with article 21 (2) of Annex III to the Convention, any final decision rendered by a court or tribunal having jurisdiction under the Convention relating to the rights and obligations of the Authority and of the Contractor shall be enforceable in the territory of any State party to the Convention affected thereby.; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, fax, registered airmail or e-mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an e-mail containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by fax shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published fax number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An e-mail is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 48 13-40403; Section 27. Applicable law 27.1 This contract shall be governed by the terms of this contract, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 27.2 The Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract shall observe the applicable law referred to in section 27.1 hereof and shall not engage in any transaction, directly or indirectly, prohibited by the applicable law. 27.3 Nothing contained in this contract shall be deemed an exemption from the necessity of applying for and obtaining any permit or authority that may be required for any activities under this contract.; Section 28. Interpretation The division of this contract into sections and subsections and the insertion of headings are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation hereof.; Section 29. Additional documents Each party hereto agrees to execute and deliver all such further instruments, and to do and perform all such further acts and things as may be necessary or expedient to give effect to the provisions of this contract.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 21; Paragraph 22; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 6. Rapport annuel; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 10. Forme des demandes; Article 12. Zone visée par la demande; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 15. Engagements Dans sa demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration, tout demandeur, y compris l’Entreprise, s’engage par écrit vis-à-vis de l’Autorité à : a) Accepter comme exécutoires et respecter les obligations qui lui incombent en vertu de la Convention et des règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, des décisions des organes de l’Autorité et des clauses des contrats qu’il a conclus avec celle-ci;; Article 17. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 18. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 21. Droits afférents aux demandes; Article 22. Réception, accusé de réception et garde des demandes Le Secrétaire général : a) Accuse réception par écrit, dans les 30 jours de sa réception, toute demande d’approbation d’un plan de travail relatif à l’exploration soumis conformément à la présente Partie, en spécifiant la date de la réception;; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 25. Le contrat; Article 26. Droits du contractant; Article 27. Superficie du secteur et restitution; Article 28. Durée des contrats; Article 29. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 30. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 31. Cessation du patronage; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 34. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 36. Droits des États côtiers; Article 37. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, ainsi que leur emplacement et les mesures de protection et de préservation prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 38. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 39. Protection de la confidentialité; Article 40. Notification et procédures de caractère général; Article 41. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 42. Différends; Article 43. Ressources autres que les sulfures polymétalliques Si un prospecteur ou un contractant trouve dans la Zone des ressources autres que des sulfures polymétalliques, la prospection, l’exploration et l’exploitation de ces ressources sont soumises aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité concernant ces ressources, conformément à la Convention et à l’Accord. Le prospecteur ou le contractant notifie sa découverte à l’Autorité.; Article 44. Révision; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Section V. Engagements; Section VII. Pièces jointes; Article 1. Définitions 1.1 Dans les clauses ci-après : a) On entend par « zone d’exploration » la partie de la Zone attribuée au Contractant pour exploration, décrite à l’annexe 1 du présent contrat, telle qu’elle peut être réduite de temps à autre en application du présent contrat et du Règlement;; Article 2. Sécurité contractuelle (garantie du titre) 2.1 Le Contractant jouit de la sécurité contractuelle (garantie du titre) et le présent contrat ne peut être suspendu, résilié ou révisé que conformément à ses articles 20, 21 et 24. 2.2 Le Contractant a le droit exclusif d’explorer les sulfures polymétalliques dans la zone d’exploration conformément aux clauses du présent contrat. L’Autorité veille à ce qu’aucune autre entité n’exerce dans la même zone des activités portant sur une catégorie différente de ressources d’une façon qui puisse gêner outre mesure celles que mène le Contractant. 2.3 Le Contractant a le droit, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, de renoncer à tout moment à tout ou partie de ses droits sur la zone d’exploration sans encourir de pénalité étant entendu qu’il demeure tenu de toutes les obligations qu’il a contractées avant la date de cette renonciation en ce qui concerne la zone à laquelle il renonce. 2.4 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être considérée comme conférant au Contractant d’autres droits que ceux qui y sont expressément prévus. L’Autorité se réserve le droit de conclure avec des tiers des contrats concernant les ressources autres que les sulfures polymétalliques de la zone visée par le présent contrat.; Article 3. Durée du contrat 3.1 Le présent contrat entrera en vigueur à la date de sa signature par les deux parties et restera en vigueur pendant une période de quinze ans à compter de cette date à moins : a) Que le Contractant n’obtienne un contrat d’exploitation dans la zone d’exploration entrant en vigueur avant l’expiration de la période de quinze ans; ou b) Qu’il ne soit résilié plus tôt, étant entendu que sa durée pourra être prolongée conformément aux articles 3.2 et 17.2 ci-après. 3.2 Si le Contractant en fait la demande au plus tard six mois avant qu’il vienne à expiration, le présent contrat pourra être prorogé pour des périodes ne dépassant pas cinq ans chacune, aux clauses et conditions dont l’Autorité et le Contractant pourront convenir alors conformément au Règlement. Ces prorogations sont accordées si le Contractant s’est efforcé de bonne foi de se conformer aux stipulations du présent contrat mais n’a pas pu, pour des raisons indépendantes de sa volonté, mener à bien les travaux préparatoires nécessaires pour passer à la phase d’exploitation ou si les circonstances économiques du moment ne justifient pas le passage à la phase d’exploitation. 3.3 Nonobstant l’expiration du présent contrat conformément à son article 3.1, si le Contractant a, 90 jours au moins avant la date d’expiration, sollicité un contrat d’exploitation, ses droits et obligations sont maintenus jusqu’à ce que sa demande ait été examinée et qu’un contrat d’exploitation ait été émis ou refusé.; Article 4. Exploration 4.1 Le Contractant entreprend l’exploration conformément au calendrier arrêté dans le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat et respecte ce calendrier ou toute modification y afférente comme il est prévu par le présent contrat. 4.2 Le Contractant exécute le programme d’activités figurant à l’annexe 2 du présent contrat. Ce faisant, pour chaque année du contrat, il consacre aux dépenses effectives et directes d’exploration un montant au moins équivalant à celui qui est prévu dans le programme considéré ou dans toute modification y afférente. 4.3 Le Contractant peut, avec le consentement de l’Autorité, que celle-ci ne peut refuser sans motif raisonnable, apporter de temps à autre au programme d’activités et aux dépenses qui y sont prévues les modifications pouvant être nécessaires et prudentes selon la bonne pratique de l’industrie minière et compte tenu de la situation sur le marché des métaux que renferment les sulfures polymétalliques et de la situation économique générale. 4.4 Le Contractant et le Secrétaire général procèdent conjointement à l’examen des résultats des activités d’exploration menées en vertu du présent contrat, au plus tard 90 jours avant l’expiration de chaque période de cinq ans à compter de la date d’entrée en vigueur prévue à l’article 3. Le Secrétaire général peut exiger du Contractant qu’il lui communique les données et informations supplémentaires pouvant être nécessaires pour cet examen. À l’issue de cet examen, le Contractant apporte à son plan de travail les ajustements nécessaires, indique son programme d’activités pour la période de cinq ans suivante, y compris un calendrier révisé des dépenses annuelles qu’il prévoit. L’annexe 2 est modifiée en conséquence.; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le Contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le Contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 7. Restes humains, objets et sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique Le Contractant notifie immédiatement par écrit au Secrétaire général toute découverte, dans son secteur d’exploration, de tous restes humains, objets ou sites présentant un caractère archéologique ou historique, ainsi que leur emplacement et les mesures de protection et de préservation prises. Le Secrétaire général transmet ces informations au Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture et à toute autre organisation internationale compétente. Lorsque de tels restes humains, objets ou sites sont découverts dans un secteur d’exploration, et pour éviter d’en altérer l’état, il ne sera mené aucune nouvelle activité de prospection ou d’exploration dans un rayon de dimension raisonnable tant que le Conseil n’en aura pas décidé autrement en tenant compte des avis du Directeur général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture ou de toute autre organisation internationale compétente.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.; Article 9. Livres et pièces comptables Le Contractant tient une série complète et appropriée de livres, comptes et états financiers conformes aux principes comptables internationalement reconnus. Ces livres, comptes et états financiers doivent contenir des informations renseignant pleinement sur les dépenses engagées effectivement et directement pour l’exploration et tous autres renseignements susceptibles de faciliter un audit effectif de ces dépenses.; Article 10. Rapports annuels 10.1 Le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général, au plus tard 90 jours après la fin de chaque année civile, un rapport, sous la forme recommandée de temps à autre par la Commission juridique et technique, sur les activités qu’il a menées dans la zone d’exploration comportant, le cas échéant, des renseignements suffisamment détaillés sur : a) Les activités d’exploration menées au cours de l’année civile, y compris les cartes, diagrammes et graphiques illustrant les travaux effectués et les résultats obtenus;; Article 11. Données et informations à présenter à l’expiration du contrat 11.1 Le Contractant communique à l’Autorité toutes données et informations pertinentes qui lui sont nécessaires pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration, conformément aux dispositions du présent article. 11.2 À l’expiration ou à la résiliation du présent contrat, le Contractant, s’il ne l’a pas encore fait, présente au Secrétaire général les données et informations ci-après : a) Copie de toutes les données géologiques, environnementales, géochimiques et géophysiques pertinentes qu’il a acquises au cours de l’exécution du programme d’activités et qui sont nécessaires à l’Autorité pour exercer efficacement ses pouvoirs et fonctions en ce qui concerne la zone d’exploration;; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le Contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le Contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le Contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés conformément en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout Contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination dans l’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et soustraitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 17. Force majeure 17.1 Le Contractant n’est responsable d’aucun retard inévitable dans l’exécution ni de l’inexécution de l’une quelconque des obligations qui lui incombent en vertu du présent contrat imputables à la force majeure. Aux fins du présent contrat, on entend par « force majeure » un événement ou une situation que le Contractant ne saurait raisonnablement pas être censé prévenir ou maîtriser, à condition que l’événement ou la situation en question ne résulte pas d’une négligence ou de l’inobservation des bonnes pratiques en matière d’extraction minière. 17.2 S’il le demande, le Contractant se verra accorder un délai supplémentaire égal à la durée du retard dans l’exécution imputable à la force majeure, la durée du présent contrat étant prolongée en conséquence. 17.3 En cas de force majeure, le Contractant prend toutes les mesures pouvant raisonnablement être prises pour rétablir sa capacité d’exécution et se conformer aux clauses du présent contrat avec le minimum de retard. 17.4 Le Contractant notifie, aussitôt qu’il peut raisonnablement le faire, à l’Autorité la survenue d’un cas de force majeure et lui notifie pareillement le retour à la normale.; Article 18. Démenti Ni le Contractant ni une entreprise apparentée ni un sous-traitant ne peuvent d’aucune manière faire valoir ou déclarer expressément ou indirectement que l’Autorité ou l’un de ses fonctionnaires a, ou a exprimé, telle ou telle opinion concernant les sulfures polymétalliques se trouvant dans la zone d’exploration, et aucune déclaration en ce sens se référant directement ou indirectement au présent contrat ne pourra figurer dans un prospectus, un avis, une circulaire, une annonce publicitaire, un communiqué de presse ou un document similaire émanant du Contractant, d’une entreprise apparentée ou d’un sous-traitant. Aux fins du présent article, on entend par « entreprise apparentée » toute personne, firme, société ou entreprise publique qui contrôle le Contractant, est contrôlée par lui ou est assujettie au même contrôle que lui.; Article 19. Renonciation Le Contractant peut, moyennant notification à l’Autorité, renoncer à ses droits et résilier le présent contrat sans encourir de pénalité, étant toutefois entendu qu’il reste en ce cas tenu par toutes les obligations qu’il aura pu contracter avant la date de cette renonciation et par celles qui lui incombent après la résiliation en application du Règlement.; Article 20. Cessation du patronage 20.1 Si la nationalité du Contractant ou l’entité qui le contrôle change ou si l’État qui le patronne, tel qu’il est défini dans le Règlement, met fin à son patronage, le Contractant en informe l’Autorité sans délai. 20.2 Dans l’un et l’autre cas, si le Contractant n’obtient pas d’un autre patron réunissant les conditions prescrites par le Règlement qu’il présente à l’Autorité un certificat de patronage sous la forme prescrite et dans les délais fixés par le Règlement, le présent contrat prend immédiatement fin.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 22. Cession des droits et obligations 22.1 Les droits et obligations du Contractant au titre du présent contrat ne peuvent être cédés en tout ou partie qu’avec le consentement de l’Autorité et conformément au Règlement. 22.2 L’Autorité ne refuse pas sans motifs suffisants son consentement à la cession si le cessionnaire proposé est, à tous égards, un demandeur qualifié au regard du Règlement et assume toutes les obligations du Contractant, et si le transfert n’a pas pour résultat de lui faire attribuer un plan de travail dont l’approbation serait interdite en vertu de l’annexe III, article 6, paragraphe 3 c) de la Convention. 22.3 Les clauses, engagements et conditions prévus par le présent contrat sont à l’avantage des parties et de leurs ayants droit et cessionnaires respectifs, et ont force obligatoire envers eux.; Article 24. Révision 24.1 Lorsqu’il se présente ou qu’il pourrait se présenter des circonstances qui, de l’avis de l’Autorité ou du Contractant, auraient pour effet de rendre le présent contrat inéquitable ou de compromettre ou d’empêcher la réalisation des objectifs prévus par celui-ci ou par la partie XI de la Convention ou par l’Accord, les parties engagent des négociations en vue de réviser ledit contrat en conséquence. 24.2 Le présent contrat peut également être révisé par accord entre le Contractant et l’Autorité afin de faciliter l’application de règles, règlements et procédures adoptés par l’Autorité après l’entrée en vigueur du présent contrat. 24.3 Le présent contrat ne peut être révisé, amendé ou autrement modifié qu’avec le consentement du Contractant et de l’Autorité exprimé dans un instrument approprié signé par les représentants autorisés des parties.; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 Conformément au paragraphe 2 de l’article 21 de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du Contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État Partie à la Convention visé par la décision.; Article 26. Notification 26.1 Toute demande, requête, notification, approbation, renonciation, directive ou instruction et tout rapport ou consentement prévus dans le présent contrat sont formulés par écrit par le Secrétaire général ou le représentant désigné du Contractant, selon le cas. Les notifications sont faites à personne ou par télex, télécopie, lettre recommandée expédiée par avion ou courrier électronique authentifié par une signature électronique autorisée adressés au Secrétaire général au siège de l’Autorité ou au représentant désigné. L’obligation de fournir des informations par écrit en application du présent Règlement est satisfaite si ces informations sont fournies dans un document électronique comportant une signature numérique. 26.2 L’une et l’autre partie ont le droit de changer d’adresse en en informant l’autre partie au moins 10 jours à l’avance. 26.3 La notification à personne prend effet au moment où elle est faite. La notification par télex est réputée effectuée le jour ouvrable suivant le jour où la mention « réponse » apparaît sur l’appareil de télex de l’expéditeur. La notification par télécopie prend effet lorsque l’expéditeur reçoit « l’accusé de réception » confirmant la transmission au numéro de télécopie publié du destinataire. La notification par lettre recommandée expédiée par avion est réputée effectuée vingt et un jours après que la lettre a été postée. Un document électronique est réputé reçu par son destinataire lorsqu’il entre dans un système informatique conçu ou utilisé par le destinataire pour recevoir des documents du type de celui qui lui est adressé et qu’il peut être récupéré et traité par ce destinataire. 26.4 La notification au représentant désigné du Contractant vaut notification au Contractant aux fins du présent contrat, et le représentant désigné est le représentant du Contractant aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente. 26.5 La notification au Secrétaire général vaut notification à l’Autorité aux fins du présent contrat, et le Secrétaire général est le représentant de celle-ci aux fins de signification ou de notification à l’occasion de toute instance devant toute juridiction compétente.; Article 27. Droit applicable 27.1 Le présent contrat est régi par ses dispositions, les règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité, la partie XI de la Convention, l’Accord et les autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 27.2 Le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes les personnes travaillant ou agissant pour eux dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat observent le droit applicable visé à l’article 27.1 ci-dessus et ne se livrent directement ou indirectement à aucune transaction interdite par ce droit. 27.3 Aucune disposition du présent contrat ne peut être interprétée comme dispensant de la nécessité de demander et d’obtenir le permis ou l’autorisation pouvant être requis pour l’une quelconque des activités prévues par le présent contrat.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: preamble/chapeau; Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Часть II. Поиск; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 4. Рассмотрение уведомлений; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Часть III. Заявки на утверждение планов работы по разведке в форме контракта; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 10. Форма заявок; Правило 11. Удостоверение о поручительстве; Правило 12. Целый район, указанный в заявке; Правило 13. Финансовые и технические возможности; Правило 14. Предыдущие контракты с Органом Если заявитель или — в случае представления заявки партнерством или консорциумом субъектов, осуществляющих деятельность совместно, — любой участник партнерства или консорциума ранее заключал какой-либо контракт с Органом, в заявке указывается: a) дата предыдущего контракта (контрактов);; Правило 15. Обязательства Каждый заявитель, включая Предприятие, в рамках своей заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке берет перед Органом следующие письменные обязательства: a) признать в качестве подлежащих исполнению и соблюдать применимые обязательства, возникающие в силу положений Конвенции, норм, правил и процедур Органа, решений соответствующих органов Органа и условий его контрактов с Органом;; Правило 16. Право заявителя на выбор между передачей зарезервированного района или долей в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия Каждый заявитель в своей заявке выбирает либо: a) передать зарезервированный район для проведения деятельности согласно статье 9 приложения III к Конвенции в соответствии с правилом 17, либо;; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 18. Заявки на утверждение планов работы в отношении зарезервированного района; Правило 19. Доля в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Правило 22. Получение, подтверждение и хранение заявок Генеральный секретарь: a) в течение 30 дней в письменном виде подтверждает получение каждой заявки на утверждение плана работы по разведке, представленной согласно настоящей части, с указанием даты получения;; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Правило 24. Рассмотрение и утверждение Советом планов работы по разведке Совет рассматривает доклады и рекомендации Комиссии, касающиеся утверждения планов работы по разведке, в соответствии с пунктами 11 и 12 раздела 3 приложения к Соглашению.; Часть IV. Контракты на разведку; Правило 25. Контракт; Правило 26. Права контрактора; Правило 27. Размеры района и отказ от его участков; Правило 28. Срок действия контрактов; Правило 29. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 приложения III к Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Правило 30. Периодический обзор осуществления плана работы по разведке; Правило 31. Прекращение поручительства; Правило 32. Ответственность Материальная и иная ответственность контрактора и Органа регулируется Конвенцией. Контрактор продолжает нести ответственность за любой ущерб, причиненный в результате неправомерных действий, допущенных им при осуществлении своей деятельности, в частности ущерб морской среде, по окончании этапа разведки.; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 35. Чрезвычайные распоряжения; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Правило 37. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Правило 38. Данные и информация, имеющие характер собственности, и конфиденциальность; Правило 39. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Правило 40. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Правило 41. Рекомендации, призванные сориентировать контракторов; Правило 42. Споры; Правило 43. Ресурсы помимо полиметаллических сульфидов Если изыскатель или контрактор обнаруживает в Районе ресурсы помимо полиметаллических сульфидов, поиск, разведка и разработка таких ресурсов регламентируются в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением нормами, правилами и процедурами Органа, касающимися таких ресурсов. Изыскатель или контрактор уведомляет орган о том, что он обнаружил.; Правило 44. Обзор; Приложение 1. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Приложение 2. Заявка на утверждение плана работы по разведке для получения контракта; Раздел I. Информация о заявителе; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел III. Финансовая и техническая информация; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел V. Обязательства; Раздел VI. Предыдущие контракты; Раздел VII. Добавления; Приложение 3. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » _____ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий A. Стандартные условия, приводимые в приложении 2 к Правилам поиска и разведки полиметаллических сульфидов в Районе, включаются в настоящий контракт и имеют такую же силу, как если бы они развернуто приводились в самом контракте. Разведочный район B. Для целей настоящего контракта «разведочный район» означает ту часть Района, которая выделена Контрактору для разведки; она определяется перечисленными в добавлении 1 к контракту координатами и может периодически сокращаться в соответствии со стандартными условиями и Правилами. Предоставление прав C. С учетом: 1) их взаимной заинтересованности в осуществлении деятельности по разведке в разведочном районе в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением, 2) ответственность Органа за организацию и контроль деятельности в Районе, особенно в целях управления ресурсами Района, в соответствии с правовым режимом, установленным, соответственно, в части XI Конвенции и Соглашении и в части XII Конвенции, и 3) интересов и финансовых обязательств Контрактора в осуществлении деятельности в разведочном районе и взаимных договоренностей, закрепленных в настоящем контракте, Орган настоящим предоставляет Контрактору исключительное право на разведку полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе в соответствии с условиями настоящего контракта. Вступление в силу и срок действия контракта D. Настоящий контракт вступает в силу по его подписании обеими сторонами и с соблюдением стандартных условий остается в силе в течение последующих пятнадцати лет, если только: 1) Контрактор не получит контракт на разработку в разведочном районе, вступающий в силу до истечения такого пятнадцатилетнего периода, или 2) контракт не будет прекращен ранее, при условии что срок действия контракта может быть продлен в соответствии со стандартными условиями 3.2 и 17.2. Добавления E. Добавления, упоминаемые в стандартных условиях, а именно в разделе 4 и разделе 8, являются для целей настоящего контракта, соответственно, добавлениями 2 и 3. Содержание соглашения F. Настоящий контракт заключает в себе все содержание соглашения между сторонами, и никакие устные договоренности или предшествующие документы не меняют его условий. В УДОСТОВЕРЕНИЕ ЧЕГО нижеподписавшиеся, должным образом на то уполномоченные соответствующими сторонами, подписали « » ______ года в __________ настоящий контракт.; Приложение 4; Раздел 1. Определения; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 3. Срок действия контракта; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 7. Человеческие останки и объекты и участки, имеющие археологическое или историческое значение Контрактор незамедлительно уведомляет Генерального секретаря в письменном виде об обнаружении в разведочном районе каких бы то ни было человеческих останков, имеющих археологическое или историческое значение, или каких-либо объектов или участков аналогичного характера и об их местонахождении, включая принятые меры по сохранению и защите. Генеральный секретарь препровождает такую информацию Генеральному директору Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры и любой иной компетентной международной организации. При обнаружении в разведочном районе любых таких человеческих останков, объектов или участков и во избежание причинения ущерба таким человеческим останкам, объектам или участкам в разумном радиусе не проводится никаких дальнейших поисковоразведочных работ, пока Совет не примет иного решения с учетом мнения Генерального директора Организации Объединенных Наций по вопросам образования, науки и культуры или любой иной компетентной международной организации.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров; Раздел 9. Книги и записи Контрактор содержит в соответствии с международно принятыми принципами учета полный и надлежащий комплект книг, счетов и финансовых записей. Такие книги, счета и финансовые записи включают информацию, которая дает полный отчет о фактических прямых затратах на разведку, и такую другую информацию, которая позволяет произвести эффективную ревизию таких расходов.; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 13. Обязательства; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 15. Нормы техники безопасности, охраны труда и производственной гигиены; Раздел 16. Ответственность; Раздел 17. Форс-мажорные обстоятельства; Раздел 18. Оговорка Ни Контрактор, ни какие-либо ассоциированные компании или субподрядчики никоим образом — ни прямо, ни опосредованно — не заявляют и не дают оснований предположить, что Орган или какое-либо его должностное лицо имеет или выразило какое-либо мнение относительно полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе, причем ни в каких проспектах, уведомлениях, циркулярах, рекламных материалах, пресс-релизах или аналогичных документах, прямо или косвенно затрагивающих настоящий контракт и публикуемых Контрактором, какими-либо ассоциированными компаниями или субподрядчиками, не фигурируют и не поддерживаются заявления на этот счет. Для целей настоящего раздела выражение «ассоциированная компания» означает любое лицо, фирму или компанию либо принадлежащий государству субъект, контролирующие Контрактора, контролируемые им или находящиеся под общим с ним контролем.; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 20. Прекращение поручительства; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 22. Передача прав и обязательств; Раздел 24. Пересмотр; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: preamble/chapeau; 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第6条年度报告; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第8条考古或历史文物在“区域”内发现任何实际或可能的考古或历史文物，探矿者应立即将该事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事。; 第9条通则在符合《公约》各项规定的情况下，下列各方可向管理局申请核准勘探工作计划：; 第10条申请书的格式; 第11条担保书; 第12条申请书包括的总区域; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第14条以前同管理局订立的合同如果申请者，或在申请是联合安排中由实体组成的合伙企业或联营企业提出时，任何合伙者或联营者，以前曾同管理局订立任何合同，则申请书应包括：; 第15条承诺作为请求核准勘探工作计划的申请书的一部分，各申请者，包括企业部在内，应向管理局作出下列书面承诺：; 第16条申请者选择提供保留区或在一个联合企业安排中的股份每一申请者在申请书中应选择：; 第17条在指定保留区以前应提交的数据和资料; 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第19条在一个联合企业安排中的股份; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第21条申请费; 第22条申请书的收受、确认和妥善保管秘书长应：; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第24条理事会对勘探工作计划的审议和核准理事会应按照《协定》附件第 3 节第 11 和第 12 段的规定审议委员会关于核准勘探工作计划的报告和建议。; 第25条合同; 第26条承包者的权利; 第27条区域面积和放弃; 第28条合同期限; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第31条担保的终止; 第32条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第37条具有考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物和遗址在勘探区内发现任何具有考古或历史意义的遗骸或任何类似性质的文物或遗址时，承包者应立即将该事及发现的地点以书面方式通知秘书长，包括报告已采取的保全和保护措施。秘书长应将这些资料转交联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织。在勘探区发现这种考古或历史意义的遗骸、文物或遗址后，为了避免扰动此类遗骸、文物或遗址，不得在一个合理范围内继续进行探矿或勘探，直至理事会在考虑联合国教育、科学及文化组织总干事以及任何其他主管国际组织的意见后做出决定。; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第39条确保机密性的程序; 第40条通知和一般程序; 第41条指导承包者的建议; 第42条争端; 第43条多金属硫化物以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属硫化物以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 8. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature A prospector shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the Area of an object of actual or potential archaeological or historical nature and its location. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 12. Total area covered by the application; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 14. Previous contracts with the Authority Where the applicant or, in the case of an application by a partnership or consortium of entities in a joint arrangement, any member of the partnership or consortium, has previously been awarded any contract with the Authority, the application shall include:; Regulation 15. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 17. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 19. Equity interest in a joint venture arrangement; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 21. Fee for applications; Regulation 22. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications The Secretary-General shall:; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 24. Consideration and approval of plans of work for exploration by the Council The Council shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Commission relating to approval of plans of work for exploration in accordance with paragraphs 11 and 12 of section 3 of the annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 25. The contract; Regulation 26. Rights of the contractor; Regulation 27. Size of area and relinquishment; Regulation 28. Duration of contracts; Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Regulation 30. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 31. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 32. Responsibility and liability Responsibility and liability of the contractor and of the Authority shall be in accordance with the Convention. The contractor shall continue to have responsibility for any damage arising out of wrongful acts in the conduct of its operations, in particular damage to the marine environment, after the completion of the exploration phase.; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 37. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Regulation 38. Confidentiality of data and information; Regulation 39. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 40. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 41. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 42. Disputes; Regulation 43. Resources other than polymetallic sulphides If a prospector or contractor finds resources in the Area other than polymetallic sulphides, the prospecting and exploration for and exploitation of such resources shall be subject to the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority relating to such resources in accordance with the Convention and the Agreement. The prospector or contractor shall notify the Authority of its find.; Regulation 44. Review; Annex 2. Application for approval of a plan of work for exploration to obtain a contract; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section V. Undertakings; Section VI. Previous contracts; Annex 3. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the day of between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and represented by (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses A. The standard clauses set out in annex 4 to the Regulations on Prospecting and Exploration for Polymetallic Sulphides in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. Exploration area B. For the purposes of this contract, the “exploration area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for exploration, defined by the coordinates listed in; Annex 4. Standard clauses for exploration contract; Section 1. Definitions 1.1 In the following clauses:; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for polymetallic sulphides in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than polymetallic sulphides with third parties in the area covered by this contract.; Section 3. Contract term 3.1 This contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and shall remain in force for a period of fifteen years thereafter unless:; Section 4. Exploration 4.1 The Contractor shall commence exploration in accordance with the time schedule stipulated in the programme of activities set out in schedule 2 hereto and shall adhere to such time periods or any modification thereto as provided for by this contract. 4.2 The Contractor shall carry out the programme of activities set out in; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 7. Human remains and objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature The Contractor shall immediately notify the Secretary-General in writing of any finding in the exploration area of any human remains of an archaeological or historical nature, or any object or site of a similar nature and its location, including the preservation and protection measures taken. The Secretary-General shall 40 10-63720 transmit such information to the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and any other competent international organization. Following the finding of any such human remains, object or site in the exploration area, and in order to avoid disturbing such human remains, object or site, no further prospecting or exploration shall take place, within a reasonable radius, until such time as the Council decides otherwise after taking account of the views of the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or any other competent international organization.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 9. Books and records The Contractor shall keep a complete and proper set of books, accounts and financial records, consistent with internationally accepted accounting principles. Such books, accounts and financial records shall include information which will fully disclose the actual and direct expenditures for exploration and such other information as will facilitate an effective audit of such expenditures.; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 11. Data and information to be submitted on expiration of the contract 11.1 The Contractor shall transfer to the Authority all data and information that are both necessary for and relevant to the effective exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority in respect of the exploration area in accordance with the provisions of this section. 11.2 Upon expiration or termination of this contract the Contractor, if it has not already done so, shall submit the following data and information to the SecretaryGeneral:; Section 12. Confidentiality Data and information transferred to the Authority in accordance with this contract shall be treated as confidential in accordance with the provisions of the Regulations.; Section 13. Undertakings 13.1 The Contractor shall carry out exploration in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, the Regulations, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 13.2 The Contractor undertakes:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 15. Safety, labour and health standards 15.1 The Contractor shall comply with the generally accepted international rules and standards established by competent international organizations or general diplomatic conferences concerning the safety of life at sea, and the prevention of collisions and such rules, regulations and procedures as may be adopted by the Authority relating to safety at sea. Each vessel used for carrying out activities in the Area shall possess current valid certificates required by and issued pursuant to such international rules and standards. 15.2 The Contractor shall, in carrying out exploration under this contract, observe and comply with such rules, regulations and procedures as may be adopted by the Authority relating to protection against discrimination in employment, occupational safety and health, labour relations, social security, employment security and living conditions at the work site. Such rules, regulations and procedures shall take into account conventions and recommendations of the International Labour Organization and other competent international organizations.; Section 16. Responsibility and liability 16.1 The Contractor shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage, including damage to the marine environment, arising out of its wrongful acts or omissions, and those of its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, including the costs of reasonable measures to prevent or limit damage to the marine environment, account being taken of any contributory acts or omissions by the Authority. 16.2 The Contractor shall indemnify the Authority, its employees, subcontractors and agents against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions of the Contractor and its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.3 The Authority shall be liable for the actual amount of any damage to the Contractor arising out of its wrongful acts in the exercise of its powers and functions, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2, of the Convention, account being taken of contributory acts or omissions by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors, and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract. 16.4 The Authority shall indemnify the Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract, against all claims and liabilities of any third party arising out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the exercise of its powers and functions hereunder, including violations under article 168, paragraph 2, of the Convention. 16.5 The Contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance policies with internationally recognized carriers, in accordance with generally accepted international maritime practice.; Section 17. Force majeure 17.1 The Contractor shall not be liable for an unavoidable delay or failure to perform any of its obligations under this contract due to force majeure. For the purposes of this contract, force majeure shall mean an event or condition that the Contractor could not reasonably be expected to prevent or control; provided that the event or condition was not caused by negligence or by a failure to observe good mining industry practice. 17.2 The Contractor shall, upon request, be granted a time extension equal to the period by which performance was delayed hereunder by force majeure and the term of this contract shall be extended accordingly. 17.3 In the event of force majeure, the Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to remove its inability to perform and comply with the terms and conditions of this contract with a minimum of delay. 17.4 The Contractor shall give notice to the Authority of the occurrence of an event of force majeure as soon as reasonably possible, and similarly give notice to the Authority of the restoration of normal conditions.; Section 18. Disclaimer Neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company or subcontractor shall in any manner claim or suggest, whether expressly or by implication, that the Authority or any official thereof has, or has expressed, any opinion with respect to polymetallic sulphides in the exploration area and a statement to that effect shall not be included in or endorsed on any prospectus, notice, circular, advertisement, press release or similar document issued by the Contractor, any affiliated company or any subcontractor that refers directly or indirectly to this contract. For the purposes of this section, an “affiliated company” means any person, firm or company or Stateowned entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Contractor.; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations. 46 10-63720; Section 20. Termination of sponsorship 20.1 If the nationality or control of the Contractor changes or the Contractor’s sponsoring State, as defined in the Regulations, terminates its sponsorship, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Authority forthwith. 20.2 In either such event, if the Contractor does not obtain another sponsor meeting the requirements prescribed in the Regulations which submits to the Authority a certificate of sponsorship for the Contractor in the prescribed form within the time specified in the Regulations, this contract shall terminate forthwith.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 22. Transfer of rights and obligations 22.1 The rights and obligations of the Contractor under this contract may be transferred in whole or in part only with the consent of the Authority and in accordance with the Regulations. 22.2 The Authority shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the transfer if the proposed transferee is in all respects a qualified applicant in accordance with the Regulations and assumes all of the obligations of the Contractor and if the transfer does not confer to the transferee a plan of work, the approval of which would be forbidden by Annex III, article 6, paragraph 3 (c), of the Convention. 22.3 The terms, undertakings and conditions of this contract shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.; Section 23. No waiver No waiver by either party of any rights pursuant to a breach of the terms and conditions of this contract to be performed by the other party shall be construed as a waiver by the party of any succeeding breach of the same or any other term or condition to be performed by the other party.; Section 24. Revision 24.1 When circumstances have arisen or are likely to arise which, in the opinion of the Authority or the Contractor, would render this contract inequitable or make it impracticable or impossible to achieve the objectives set out in this contract or in; Section 25. Disputes 25.1 Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XI, section 5, of the Convention. 25.2 In accordance with article 21, paragraph 2, of Annex III to the Convention, any final decision rendered by a court or tribunal having jurisdiction under the Convention relating to the rights and obligations of the Authority and of the Contractor shall be enforceable in the territory of any State Party to the Convention affected thereby.; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, facsimile, registered airmail or electronic mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an electronic document containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by facsimile shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published facsimile number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An electronic document is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction.; Section 27. Applicable law 27.1 This contract shall be governed by the terms of this contract, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement and other rules of international law not incompatible with the Convention. 27.2 The Contractor, its employees, subcontractors, agents and all persons engaged in working or acting for them in the conduct of its operations under this contract shall observe the applicable law referred to in section 27.1 hereof and shall not engage in any transaction, directly or indirectly, prohibited by the applicable law. 27.3 Nothing contained in this contract shall be deemed an exemption from the necessity of applying for and obtaining any permit or authority that may be required for any activities under this contract.; Section 28. Interpretation The division of this contract into sections and subsections and the insertion of headings are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation hereof.; Section 29. Additional documents Each party hereto agrees to execute and deliver all such further instruments, and to do and perform all such further acts and things as may be necessary or expedient to give effect to the provisions of this contract.
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 59; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 75; Paragraph 77; Paragraph 78; Paragraph 81; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 92; Paragraph 96; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 106; Paragraph 108; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 110; Paragraph 116; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 120; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 133; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 143; Paragraph 144; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 171; Paragraph 172; Paragraph 173; Paragraph 177; Paragraph 180; Paragraph 182; Paragraph 184; Paragraph 186; Paragraph 187; Paragraph 191; Paragraph 192; Paragraph 195; Paragraph 198; Paragraph 200; Paragraph 201; Paragraph 202; Paragraph 203; Paragraph 204; Paragraph 205; Paragraph 209; Paragraph 215; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 219; Paragraph 221; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 224; Paragraph 225; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 229; Paragraph 231; Paragraph 232; Paragraph 233; Paragraph 234; Paragraph 235; Paragraph 238; Paragraph 239; Paragraph 240; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 43; Paragraph 44; Paragraph 53; Paragraph 75; Paragraph 77; Paragraph 78; Paragraph 80; Paragraph 81; Paragraph 96; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 104; Paragraph 105; Paragraph 106; Paragraph 108; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 110; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 120; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 133; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 143; Paragraph 144; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 171; Paragraph 172; Paragraph 173; Paragraph 177; Paragraph 180; Paragraph 182; Paragraph 184; Paragraph 186; Paragraph 187; Paragraph 191; Paragraph 192; Paragraph 195; Paragraph 198; Paragraph 200; Paragraph 201; Paragraph 202; Paragraph 203; Paragraph 204; Paragraph 205; Paragraph 209; Paragraph 215; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 219; Paragraph 221; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 224; Paragraph 225; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 229; Paragraph 231; Paragraph 232; Paragraph 233; Paragraph 234; Paragraph 235; Paragraph 238; Paragraph 239; Paragraph 240; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Kittichaisaree, 18 July 2026 (Cases Nos. 34 and 35): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Brown, 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Brown, 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 187(c)(i) and (ii) do not afford a prima facie basis on which the jurisdiction of the [Chamber] might be founded."; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order 2026/6 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 1
• ITLOS Order 2026/8 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 28; Paragraph 35; Paragraph 36; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 38; Paragraph 39; Paragraph 42; Paragraph 48; Paragraph 50; Paragraph 54; Paragraph 58; Paragraph 59; Paragraph 64; Paragraph 66; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 73; Paragraph 74; Paragraph 75; Paragraph 76; Paragraph 77; Paragraph 79; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 83; Paragraph 96; Paragraph 98; Paragraph 99; Paragraph 101; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 103; Paragraph 105; Paragraph 106; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 112; Paragraph 121; Paragraph 124; Paragraph 125; Paragraph 126; Paragraph 127; Paragraph 128; Paragraph 129; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 136; Paragraph 138; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 141; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 149; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 151; Paragraph 152; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 154; Paragraph 155; Paragraph 166; Paragraph 178; Paragraph 179; Paragraph 184; Paragraph 186
• ITLOS Order 2026/9 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 4
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 3. Definitions. (1) In these Regulations: ‘Act’ means the Nauru Seabed Authority Act of 2024; ‘Applicable Guideline’ means a guideline issued by the Authority under regulation 55 or a guideline issued by the ISA, as the context requires; ‘Applicable Standard’ means a standard approved by the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, or a standard approved by the Minister under regulation 55 as the context requires; ‘Authorised Representative’ means the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority and any duly authorised officer performing functions of the Authority under the Act; ‘Best Available Techniques’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Environmental Practices’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Available Scientific Information’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Board’ means the Board of Directors of the Authority; ‘Closure Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Continual Improvement’ means a process of enhancing, on an ongoing basis, the measures in order to achieve improvements in overall health, safety and environmental performance consistent with the ISA’s and Sponsored Party’s health, safety and environmental policies and objectives; ‘Control Measure’ means a system, an item of equipment, a person or a procedure, that is used as a basis for managing the health, safety and environmental impacts and risks of an activity; ‘Early Warning Indicator Criteria’ means criteria used to give an early warning that an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome may be breached or not met; ‘Environmental Performance’ means the performance of a Sponsored Party in relation to the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental; Section 4. Performance Outcomes set out in an Environmental Management and. Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Impact’ means any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, that wholly or partly results from the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Impact Assessment’ means an impact assessment conducted in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management System’, has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA and used to manage the environmental aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Performance Objective’ means the performance objectives included in an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Performance Outcome’ means a measurable level of performance (qualitative or quantitative) for the desired state of the marine environment, including the quantitative value or concentration of a particular substance in the water column, sediment, or biota, arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities, which shall not be exceeded in order to protect the marine environment as set out in the Applicable Standards or an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Response and Contingency Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Risk’ means the chance of something happening that will have an adverse Environmental Impact, measured in terms of the environmental consequences and the likelihood of those particular consequences occurring; ‘Financing Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Good Industry Practice’ has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Management System’ means a system for managing the health and safety aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities, including occupational health and safety; ‘Health and Safety Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Performance Standard’ means a standard, established by a Sponsored Party, of the performance required of a system, item of equipment, person or procedure which is used as a basis for managing the risk of a major accident event; ‘ICC’ means the International Chamber of Commerce as defined under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules; ‘Management System’ means a Health and Safety Management System and an Environmental Management System;; Section 5. ‘Material Change’ means a significant change as defined in the relevant Rules. of the ISA; ‘Performance Improvement Plan’ means a plan to address the issues identified by the Authority as may be required by regulation 47; ‘Plan of Work’ is a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation in the Area as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Reportable Event’ means an event that is classified as such under these Regulations or a Sponsorship Agreement, and includes: (a) a notifiable event defined under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) a failure to comply with the fundamental terms and conditions of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, including a failure to achieve, or a breach of, an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome; (c) a determination by the ISA that the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan is inadequate in any material respect following a performance assessment under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) a contravention of, or a failure to comply with, a material term or condition of the Sponsorship Agreement; (e) a material reduction in production under a Plan of Work; (f) any failure, or likely failure in a Management System that could cause or contribute to a major accident or incident; (g) the identification of any new significant health and safety risk or significant Environmental Risk, or a significant change to existing risk calculations; (h) the receipt of a written instruction from an inspector appointed by the ISA; (i) the receipt of a compliance notice from the ISA; (j) a request by the ISA to audit the books of the sponsored entity; (k) the taking of any measures under regulation 35; (l) a failure to comply with a compliance direction or emergency direction under regulations 47 or 48 within the time allowed in the direction; or (m) any event classified by the Authority as a Reportable Event as the Seabed Mineral Activities progress; and ‘Technical Assistance Committee’ means a technical committee, set up by the Authority under the Act; ‘UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules’ means the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law adopted by the United General Assembly on 9 December 2021; (2) Terms used in these regulations that are defined in the Act have the meanings given to them by the Act.; Section 6. PART 2 - CONTENT AND PROCESSING OF SPONSORSHIP. APPLICATIONS Applications for certificate of sponsorship (1) A Sponsorship Applicant may apply to the Authority for a Sponsorship Certificate under the Act to sponsor an application for an ISA Plan of Work for either exploration or exploitation. (2) A Sponsorship Application shall: (a) be made in writing and addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority; (b) be made at least 120 days prior to the proposed date of submission of an application for the approval of a Plan of Work to the ISA; (c) include details of: (d) (i) how the applicant is governed; (ii) the proposed legal relationship, operational and transactional arrangements between the applicant and all relevant persons that will conduct all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities (including affiliates, associates, proposed investors and financiers) and their respective roles in the proposed activities; (iii) how duties and responsibilities, risk operational, financial, health, safety and environmental and potential liability including environmental liability are allocated or will be allocated between the applicant and relevant persons; (iv) the proposed revenue and expenditure flows, transactions or arrangements between the applicant and its affiliates and associates; (v) the chain of responsibility of individuals, including those employed or engaged by affiliates and associates having decision-making and operational management responsibilities through to board level; and (vi) a timeline for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities including key milestone dates. be accompanied by: (i) the draft ISA application for the approval of a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation;; Section 10. (a). clarification of the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) the compliance record, if any, of the applicant with an ISA contract; (c) any data, information, reports or studies held by the ISA that may be relevant to the sponsorship application; and (d) any other matters relevant to the application. (3) Where required under the relevant Rules of the ISA, including rules relating to the disclosure of confidential information held by the ISA, the applicant shall grant the ISA the necessary permission to disclose any information, whether confidential or otherwise contemplated by subregulation (2), to the Authority. (4) The Chief Executive Officer shall ensure that any advice or information arising from consultation under this regulation is provided in the report prepared under regulation 9(1). Review of application and preparation of assessment report (1) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days after the date the Authority receives the application, prepare an assessment report for the Board providing an overview and assessment of the application and the applicant against the Qualification Criteria in Section 17 of the Act taking into consideration the Applicable Guideline. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall: (a) seek advice or comments from relevant Departments, the Technical Assistance Committee and approved experts as necessary in order to prepare the report under subregulation (1); and (b) provide a copy of the report to the Sponsorship Applicant for its review and comment. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall submit the application, his or her assessment report and any relevant information under regulation 10 to the Board for its consideration. Relevant information for consideration of application by Authority (1) The Authority shall in considering and determining an application under Section 16, and in making a recommendation to the Cabinet under Section 18 of the Act, consider the following: (a) the Act and these Regulations; (b) the relevant Rules of the ISA; (c) the Chief Executive Officer’s assessment report; (d) any comments provided by the Sponsorship Applicant under regulation 9(2)(b);; Section 22. Approved Plan of Work. (1) On any approval of a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation by the ISA, the Sponsored Party shall provide a copy of the approved plan to the Authority, including a summary in table form of any conditions attaching to such approval. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the Sponsored Party with a view to ensuring that the necessary and appropriate procedures and processes, including the recording and reporting of data and information are in place, or will be in place to monitor effectively the implementation of the plan and any related conditions through appropriate Control Measures.; Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 25. Security Deposit. (1) In determining the requirement for any Security Deposit under Section 52 of the Act, the Authority shall consider the following factors: (a) the nature, stage, scale and likely impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (b) the Sponsored Party’s Environmental Performance record; (c) the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party and its access to financial resources, including the Sponsored Party’s capacity to respond to incidents; (d) the availability of relevant market instruments, such as insurance; (e) the Sponsored Party’s capacity to undertake any post closure monitoring; (f) the technical and economic feasibility of rectifying any damage that may be caused to the marine environment; and (g) the type and quantum of any guarantee, deposit or bond that a Sponsored Party is required to deposit with the ISA for an equivalent purpose. (2) The terms of any Security Deposit shall provide: (a) a date by which the deposit shall be made, which may be before the Seabed Mineral Activities commence; (b) details of the amount and form of security to be given; (c) that the amount of the security is to be reviewed annually and where necessary adjusted; (d) for the terms of forfeiture, repayment or release of all or part of the security; and (e) that the security may be varied, cancelled, or renewed by agreement between the Sponsored Party and the Authority. (3) Any Security Deposit shall be held by the Department responsible for finance in accordance with its policy and procedures, and in the case of cash, held in a secured interest-bearing account with a financial institution with a long-term international credit rating of AA or higher. (4) Any Security Deposit may be provided by way of instalments over a specified period. (5) Where a Sponsored Party is required to lodge a Security Deposit with the Republic prior to the commencement of Seabed Mineral Activities, the Sponsored Party may not commence activities until it has provided the required deposit in accordance with the conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement. (6) The terms of any Security Deposit may require that the deposit, or a portion of it, continues for a specified period after sponsorship is terminated to the extent that the Authority considers it may be required to fulfil any obligations of the Sponsored Party under the Act. (7) The Authority may appoint an independent assessor to advise on the appropriate amount of any Security Deposit under this regulation. (8) The application of this regulation is subject to the Applicable Guideline issued by the Authority. (9) The provision of a Security Deposit does not limit the liability of the Sponsored Party under the Act or an ISA contract.; Section 26. Variation of terms and conditions of sponsorship. (1) Pursuant to Section 25(3) of the Act, the Authority or the Sponsored Party may notify the other at any time to request a variation of a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement where a party considers that the variation is necessary: (a) to ensure consistency with: (i) the Republic’s international legal obligations; (ii) the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (iii) a modified plan of work; (b) to accommodate new or previously unforeseen significant health, safety or Environmental Risks or Environmental Impacts that have been identified in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) to take account of changes in Good Industry Practice, Best Environmental Practices, or Best Available Techniques; or (d) to reflect any change in circumstances or assumptions where information shows that the variation of any terms or conditions is appropriate to deal with such change. (2) A notice under subregulation (1) shall identify the conditions to be reviewed, give reasons for the review and may propose new conditions. (3) The parties shall consult on any variation to the terms and conditions of sponsorship within 30 days following the date of receipt of a notice and work together to amend the Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Prior to making any recommendations to the Minister, the Authority may consult with the ISA or an approved expert on the appropriateness of the variation of any terms or conditions. (5) The Authority shall make recommendations to the Minister for any proposed variation to any terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement for the responsible Minister’s consent and the Cabinet’s approval.; Section 27. Notification of material matters. (1) For the purposes of Section 26(i) of the Act, the Sponsored Party shall notify the Authority in writing within 24 hours after it becomes aware of any new information or data that materially affects affect its ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria, comply with the Plan of Work or ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) The notification shall include details of: (a) the new information or data demonstrating why this may materially affect the circumstances contemplated under subregulation (1); and (b) any corrective actions or measures that the Sponsored Party has taken or will take to remedy any inability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria, comply with the Plan of Work or inability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA.. (3) Following receipt of any notification under subregulation (1), the Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the Sponsored Party as to the nature and circumstances of the Sponsored Party’s inability to comply with or satisfy the circumstances contemplated under subregulation (1) and consider such remedial or corrective measures to return the Sponsored Party to compliance, which may include the issue of a compliance direction by the Authority under regulation 47. (4) A Sponsored Party that, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulation (1), commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to pay a fine of $25,000.; Section 39. Authority to monitor Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) The Authority shall, in cooperation with the ISA monitor the Seabed Mineral Activities of a Sponsored Party, including a Sponsored Party’s environmental monitoring programme to determine whether the activities are compliant with the obligations imposed by the Act, these Regulations, the relevant Rules of the ISA and the terms and conditions of an ISA contract and Sponsorship Agreement. (2) The Authority may engage Approved Experts to monitor, evaluate and analyse such data and information made available to the Authority by a Sponsored Party, including the provision of real-time data as is necessary for the Authority to make any determination under subregulation (1).; Section 46. (b). consult with the Sponsored Party on the results and recommendations of the report; (c) make any recommendations to the Board following such consultation, including any compliance or enforcement action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations; and (d) provide comments to the ISA on the report together with details of any regulatory action taken or to be taken by the Authority. Compliance directions (1) The Authority may by Board resolution issue a compliance direction under these Regulations for the purpose of: (a) securing compliance with a requirement under the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition of a under an ISA contract or a Sponsorship Agreement; or (b) preventing or bringing to an end specified activities that have been determined by the ISA or another authorised investigative process that includes consultation with the Sponsored Party to be contrary to the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition under an ISA contract or a sponsorship agreement. (2) A compliance direction: (a) shall be in the form of a written notice given to the Sponsored Party’s duly designated representative; (b) shall specify the grounds on which it is issued; and (c) may impose any requirement reasonably required for the purpose for which the direction is issued and consistent with the Sponsored Party’s obligations under the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition of an ISA contract or a Sponsorship Agreement including 1 or more of the following that the Sponsored Party: (i) discontinue, or not commence, specified operations indefinitely or for a specified period or until further notice from the Authority; (ii) not carry on specified operations except at specified times or subject to specified conditions; (iii) take specified action or measures within a specified period; or (iv) submit a Performance Improvement Plan for the Authority to consider. (3) The Authority may, by written notice given to the duly designated representative to whom a compliance direction is issued, vary or revoke the direction. (4) The representative to whom a compliance direction relates shall ensure compliance with a direction under this regulation within the time allowed in the direction. (5) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA prior to the issue of a compliance direction under this regulation with a view to avoiding any duplication of compliance and enforcement action, unless the content of the compliance direction relates to a Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Qualification Criteria under the Act, these Regulations or a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 50. (a). the Sponsored Party took all reasonable steps within its control to ensure that the required action would be complied with in time; or (b) compliance with the direction would cause the Sponsored Party to breach or is inconsistent with other obligations, including obligations under a corresponding ISA contract and the relevant Rules of the ISA. Whistle-blowing procedures (1) The Authority shall, in cooperation with the ISA, the Sponsored Party and relevant stakeholders establish a whistle-blowing policy and mechanism for its own staff and personnel of a Sponsored Party, its Affiliates and Associates to raise genuine concerns in respect of the activities or practices of the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates, or the Authority in the implementation of the Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and other applicable enactments. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall, in cooperation with the Sponsored Party and the ISA where appropriate, promptly investigate, verify and deal with any credible report received relating to any allegation of non-compliance or potential non-compliance with the Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and other applicable enactments by the Sponsored Party, its Associates and Affiliates or by the staff of the Authority. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall prepare a report of findings and recommendations within 10 days of completing such investigation for the Board’s consideration. (4) The Board shall within 30 days following the date of receipt of the report: (5) (6) (7) (a) consider any regulatory or other action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations; (b) cooperate, through the Chief Executive Officer with the ISA on any matter relating to potential non-compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (c) provide to the Minister details of any matters relating to noncompliance by the staff of the Authority for his or her consideration. Where the Board decides to take any action under subregulation (4), prior to taking such action: (a) the Board shall give notice in writing to the Sponsored Party or person or persons against whom the Board proposes to take action, together with a copy of the Chief Executive Officer’s report of findings and recommendations to the Board; (b) within 30 days following the date of receipt of any notice under subregulation (5)(a), the person or persons against whom the Board has decided to take action may appeal the Board’s decision in writing to the Board. Within 14 days following the date of receipt of any appeal under subregulation (5)(b), the Board shall: (a) accept the appeal and withdraw its decision to take any action under subregulation (4); or (b) reject the appeal and provide reasons for its rejection to the relevant person or persons, and proceed to take necessary steps to proceed with any action under subregulation (4). In the absence of any appeal under subregulation (5), the Board shall confirm its decision to take any action under subregulation (4).; Section 51. Application for approval to assign rights and obligations under an ISA. contract (1) For the purposes of Section 40(4) of the Act, if the intended assignee is under Nauru’s effective control, the Sponsored Party and intended assignee shall apply jointly in writing to the Authority for the issue of a new Sponsorship Certificate to such assignee, being a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or a Nauruan public enterprise. (2) The application shall be accompanied by: (a) a certified copy of the relevant transfer agreement or instrument concluded or to be concluded between the sponsored party and the intended assignee; (b) a copy of the application for approval to transfer rights and obligations under an ISA contract made to the ISA; (c) a statement of the reasons for the assignment and details of the activities to be conducted by the intended assignee for the remaining term of ISA contract; (d) a statement of the intended assignee’s ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act supported by the relevant information prescribed in Schedule 1 to these Regulations; (e) an undertaking that the intended assignee assumes all of the obligations of the transferor; (f) a final compliance statement under regulation 32(5); and (g) the applicable fee. (3) The application may include a statement of any matter that the Sponsored Party and intended assignee requests the Authority, the Minister and the Cabinet to consider in deciding whether to consent and approve to the assignment. (4) Where the Authority requests further information pursuant to Section 40(8)(c) of the Act, the Sponsored Party or intended assignee shall, within 10 days after receiving such request provide the information requested.; Section 54. Method for determining applicable fees. (1) The Board shall, when determining applicable fees under the Act and these Regulations, take all reasonable steps to recover from an applicant or Sponsored Party the actual, reasonable and relevant costs incurred by the Authority in relation to the processing of an application for sponsorship under the Act and these Regulations, as well as the ongoing administration and supervision of the sponsorship granted under the Act and these Regulations. (2) Where the Authority considers that it is appropriate to do so, it may: (a) require the applicant to make a reasonable advance payment for the relevant costs that it is entitled to recover; (b) determine the balance of the amount payable after carrying out the work necessary to process an application or provide assistance in accordance with the Regulations; and (c) require the applicant to pay the balance that it is entitled to recover prior to the notification of the decision of an application. (3) Prior to incurring any direct costs, including the costs of approved experts, the Authority shall seek the prior agreement of the applicant or Sponsored Party to such costs. (4) In determining applicable fees under this regulation, the Authority shall take account of any annual administration fee payable by a Sponsored Party under Section 46 of the Act to ensure there is no duplication of costs payable under this regulation. (5) For the purpose of this regulation, ‘relevant costs’ means administrative and other expenses which the Authority reasonably incur under the Act and these Regulations relating to the following functions and services, including: (a) providing assistance to an applicant in the preparation of an application to the ISA; (b) receiving, processing or deciding an application for sponsorship; (c) administering and supervising a sponsorship arrangement; (d) gathering and processing information required under these Regulations or the conditions of Sponsorship Agreement; (e) reviewing the conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement; and (f) contracting approved experts.; Section 56. Change in Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) A Sponsored Party may modify its Seabed Mineral Activities under a Plan of Work in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the Sponsored Party proposes to modify a Plan of Work, and the proposed modification constitutes a Material Change under the relevant Rules of the ISA or these Regulations, the Sponsored Party shall submit details of the proposed modification for the Authority’s consideration at the same time it notifies the ISA of the same proposed modification. (3) A submission under subregulation (2) shall: (a) specify the change that is being proposed; (b) set out any changes that would apply if the application for the change is to be approved by the ISA in relation to: (i) the health, safety and Environmental Risks and effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities, and any measures that are used, or to be used, to manage, limit or remedy those risks and effects; (ii) the Environmental Performance Environmental Performance Outcomes; (iii) the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement, including any impact on the recovery level of the seabed minerals; Objectives and (c) detail any consultation undertaken or proposed to be undertaken on the proposed modification under the relevant Rules of the ISA; and (d) be accompanied by a statement demonstrating that the change will not adversely affect the ability of the Sponsored Party to comply with the requirements of the Act, these Regulations and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) The Chief Executive Officer may, within 10 days after receiving details of the proposed modification request further information from the Sponsored Party or consult with the ISA on any matter relating to the modification, and shall submit a report to the Board including any recommendations relating to the modification. (5) The Board may, within 20 days after receiving the Chief Executive Officer’s review provide comments, through the Chief Executive Officer to the Sponsored Party on any proposed modification including as they may relate to the terms and conditions of sponsorship. (6) The Sponsored Party shall consider the Authority’s comments in relation to the proposed modification.; Section 57. Periodic Review of Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) Pursuant to Section 11(1)(l) of the Act, the Sponsored Party and the Authority shall undertake a joint annual review of the Seabed Mineral Activities, at intervals not exceeding 5-years from the date of the sponsorship certificate. (2) In order to avoid any unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements, the timing of such reviews shall, where practicable, coincide with the review of a Plan of Work by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA and where the Authority is invited to participate in such ISA reviews. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Authority may request a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Nothing in this regulation shall preclude the Authority or the Sponsored Party from making a request to initiate a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (5) The Authority may invite representatives from the ISA, any relevant Ministry, or Approved Experts to participate in the joint review. (6) A review under this regulation will be conducted in accordance with the Applicable Guideline.; Section 61. Disputes. (1) Pursuant to Section 56 of the Act, if a dispute between the Republic and a Sponsored Party arises under the Act, either the Republic or the Sponsored Party may give to the other disputing Party a notice of dispute in writing adequately identifying the matters and the subject of the dispute together with detailed particulars of the dispute. (2) Within 20 days of service of a notice of dispute, the parties shall make best efforts to meet at least once, to attempt to resolve the dispute. (3) After 20 days of service of a notice of dispute, if the dispute is not resolved, the Parties shall make best efforts to meet and use their best endeavours, acting in good faith, to resolve the dispute in whole or in part. (4) Where the dispute is resolved at a meeting of the parties, then any such resolution shall be reduced to writing and be contractually binding on the parties. (5) The Republic shall submit to arbitration in accordance with this regulation any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Act, that has not been resolved. (6) Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to the Act, that has not been resolved shall be settled by arbitration in accordance with the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules as at presently in force, unless the parties otherwise agree on governing rules of procedure for arbitration. (7) The appointing authority shall be the International Chamber of Commerce acting in accordance with the UNCITRAL Rules for Arbitration. (8) The number of arbitrators shall be 3. (9) The seat of the arbitration shall be Singapore. (10) The language to be used in the arbitral proceeding shall be English. (11) The governing law shall be the laws of Singapore and applicable international law principles and rules regarding the protection of foreign investors to the extent such rules do not contradict the provisions of the Act or would reduce the rights of a Sponsored Party under the Act. (12) Notwithstanding anything in this regulation: (a) nothing shall prejudice the right of a party to seek urgent injunctive, interrogatory or declaratory relief from a court of competent jurisdiction; and (b) each party shall continue to perform its obligations under the Act.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Scope of this Act. (1) The objectives of this Act are: (a) to establish a legal framework for the sponsorship, and for the effective control, by Nauru of contractors to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (b) to provide that Seabed Mineral Activities under Nauru’s sponsorship in the Area must be carried out under Nauru’s effective control in accordance with best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including Nauru’s responsibilities under the UNCLOS and specifically Nauru’s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (c) to promote transparency in decision making on matters concerning Nauru’s management of Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) to provide a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory environment for investors in Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) to secure optimum benefits, long term-economic growth and sustainable development for Nauru from the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; (f) to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations. (2) In order to achieve its objectives, this Act inter alia: (a) creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Authority to licence, monitor and manage Nauru’s involvement with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) establishes a system for Sponsorship Applications, and the grant of Sponsorships Certificates under which Sponsored Parties will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (c) provides for Nauru to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities, and for a ring-fenced Seabed Minerals Fund for the responsible long-term management of any funds raised by Nauru from Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) This Act is made on the basis that the Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity will be developed in an appropriate and timely manner for the purpose of securing that Seabed Mineral Activities will comply with relevant standards and obligations of international law.; Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 7. Establishment of the Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority. (1) There is established an authority to be known as the Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority. (2) The Authority shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal, and may: (a) sue and be sued; (b) acquire, hold and dispose of property; (c) enter into any contract, agreement, or any other transaction; and (d) do all other acts that may be done in law by a body corporate.; Section 10. Objectives of the Authority. The Authority must: (a) provide a stable, transparent, predictable and accountable regime within Nauru for the sponsorship and supervision of Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) maintain effective control of Seabed Mineral Activities undertaken under this Act and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; (c) ensure compliance by Sponsored Parties or any sub-contractors engaged by the State or Sponsored Parties in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities with relevant rules and internationally agreed standards; (d) maximise the economic and development benefits from Seabed Mineral Activities for Nauru and its people; (e) in its decision-making, take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under section 17 of this Act or from Cabinet; and (f) act in a way that is compatible with principles of best regulatory practice, including that regulatory activities should be proportionate, accountable, consistent, transparent and targeted only at cases where needed.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Nauruan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to applications, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (c) conduct due diligence enquiries into Sponsorship Applicants or Sponsored Parties; (d) receive and evaluate Sponsorship Applications; (e) recommend to Cabinet whether Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted or not, and if permitted, on what terms; (f) if approved by Cabinet, prepare and issue Certificates of Sponsorship for successful Sponsorship Applicants; (g) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract; (h) maintain Nauru’s and its Sponsored Parties’ understanding of and compliance with international laws, standards and rules relevant to Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (j) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for Nauru to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (k) require and review relevant reports and information, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (l) with Cabinet approval, establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by Nauru to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities, and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (m) insofar as they are not prescribed by law, negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (n) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of Nauru’s Seabed Mineral Activities including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, technical matters and the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, including from experts outside of the country. (2) The Cabinet may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 12. Powers of the Authority. (1) The Authority has statutory authority to undertake reasonable action calculated to facilitate, or that is conducive or incidental to, the performance of any of its functions or duties. (2) Despite subsection (1), any negotiation, contract, agreement or other transaction that binds the Republic and is entered into by the Authority without Cabinet approval, is void.; Section 20. Eligibility to perform Seabed Mineral Activities. To be eligible to perform Seabed Mineral Activities, a Sponsorship Applicant must first: (a) obtain a valid Sponsorship Certificate from the Authority; and (b) obtain a valid contract from the ISA, pertaining to those Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 21. Processing of Sponsorship Applications. (1) The Authority: (a) must deal with Sponsorship Applications promptly, and in accordance with this Act; and (b) may request further information from a Sponsorship Applicant, or request the Sponsorship Applicant to amend any part of its Sponsorship Application, at any time before making a recommendation under section 23 of this Act or may return a Sponsorship Application if a Sponsorship Applicant fails to comply with a reasonable request under this subsection. (2) In making a recommendation under section 23, the Authority may take into account any or all of the information submitted by the Sponsorship Applicant, and any relevant information in the public domain, or received through consultation, or otherwise held in the Republic’s records. (3) A previous decision by the ISA to grant a Sponsorship Applicant a contract for activities similar to those that are the subject of a Sponsorship Application may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to any of the Qualification Criteria for that Sponsorship Application.; Section 22. Content of a sponsorship application. A Sponsorship Application must be made in writing to the Authority and must: (a) provide evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; and (b) include: (i) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) written undertakings by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (A) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (B) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (C) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship by Nauru; (c) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) an indication of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed: (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease, bond or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (f) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from Nauru; (g) a capacity building programme for the training of citizens of Nauru; (h) the application fee required under this Act; (i) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA and international law; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (j) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 25. Terms of the Sponsorship Certificate. A Sponsorship Certificate, signed by the head of the Authority shall be issued to a Sponsored Party in a form necessary to satisfy the Rules of the ISA, and will contain: (a) the name of the Sponsored Party; (b) a statement that the Sponsored Party is: (i) a national of Nauru; or (ii) subject to the effective control of Nauru or its nationals; (c) a statement by the State that it sponsors the Sponsored Party; (d) the date of deposit by the State of its instrument of ratification of, or accession or succession to, the UNCLOS; (e) a declaration that the State assumes responsibility in accordance with Article 139, Article 153 (4) and Annex III, Article 4 (4) of the UNCLOS; (f) the date at which the sponsorship commences; (g) a statement that the Sponsorship Certificate shall remain in force for the duration of any ISA contract awarded to the Sponsored Party under the State’s sponsorship, unless otherwise terminated in accordance with this Act; and (h) any other content reasonably required by the ISA or that the Authority considers fit to include.; Section 26. Application by Sponsored Party to ISA. (1) A Sponsored Party may, on the basis of the Sponsorship Application submit an application to the ISA for a contract for Exploration or Exploitation under Nauru’s sponsorship. (2) The Authority will cooperate with the Sponsored Party to facilitate the preparation, submission and support of the application to the ISA. (3) The costs of presenting that application to the ISA shall be met by the Sponsored Party, including any costs reasonably incurred by Nauru in taking actions either requested by the Sponsored Party or deemed necessary by Nauru under the Rules of the ISA, to support the application before the ISA.; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.; Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the Rules of the ISA and shall be liable for the actual amount of any compensation, damage or penalties arising out of its failure so to comply, or out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) By operation of this section, Nauru shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 30. State responsibilities. Where Nauru is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, Nauru via the Authority will: (a) seek to ensure that its conduct in relation to the ISA, the Area and Seabed Mineral Activities adheres to the requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (b) take all appropriate means to exercise its effective control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the State, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (c) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (d) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (e) promote the application of the Precautionary Principle and best environmental practice.; Section 33. Records. (1) The Authority must retain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issues, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority must ensure that all such records are held with appropriate confidentiality, and will not disclose commercially sensitive information unless agreed otherwise with the Sponsored Party.; Section 34. Security of Tenure. A Sponsorship Certificate shall remain in force unless and until it is terminated in accordance with section 35 of this Act.; Section 35. Termination. A Sponsorship Certificate is terminated if, pursuant to this Act: (a) the Sponsored Party’s contract with the ISA expires, is surrendered or is terminated; or (b) if is surrendered by the Sponsored Party in accordance with section 37 of this Act; or (c) it is revoked by the Authority in accordance with section 39 of this Act; and upon termination all rights granted by Nauru shall cease.; Section 39. Variation, suspension and revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate. (1) The Authority may vary, suspend or revoke any Sponsorship Certificate: (a) where any of the Sponsorship Qualification criteria ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under section 45 is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to: (i) prevent serious risk to: (A) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (B) the Marine Environment; or (ii) avoid conflict with any obligation of Nauru arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for Nauru; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Sponsored Party; (e) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of the Sponsored Party, or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (f) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding five years from the date of signing the contract with the ISA; (g) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or Regulations or Orders made under this Act, or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party; and such breach cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party, or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (h) where, following at least two written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party in accordance with this Act, any payment or deposit required owing under this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; (i) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority. (2) Before making a decision under this section of the Act, the Authority shall: (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 30 days’ written notice of the Authority’s intention to make the decision, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice, or a copy of the notice has been given to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe; if there are any objections; (b) give a copy of the notice to any other person as the Authority thinks fit; (c) take into account any submissions made in accordance with the notice; and (d) where the decision is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, give the Sponsored Party no fewer than six months’ notice before that revocation takes place.; Section 40. Payments by Sponsored Parties. (1) A Sponsorship Applicant must pay to the Authority a non-refundable Sponsorship Application fee of US$15,000 upon the submission of a Sponsorship Application. (2) Subject to subsection (3), the holder of a Sponsorship Certificate must pay to the Authority an annual administration fee of US$20,000: (a) within six months from the date of issue of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (b) every year after that, on the anniversary each of the date of the issue of the Sponsorship Certificate. (3) During the fifth year of the Sponsorship Certificate term, the Authority may review the amount of the administration fee required each year for the remainder of the term of the Sponsorship Certificate, and may reasonably increase the amount where this is required to cover the actual costs to Nauru of administering and supervising the sponsorship. (4) A Sponsored Party holding an ISA contract for Exploitation under Nauru’s sponsorship must pay to the Authority such sums by way of a Seabed Mineral recovery payment as and when it is agreed and specified in a written agreement made under section 27, prior to the commencement of Exploitation by the Sponsored Party. (5) The recovery payment amount in subsection (4) must: (a) take into account the set-up, Exploration and Exploitation costs incurred by the Sponsored Party; and (b) be based on the percentage of the latest market value of the metal content contained in the Seabed Minerals to be extracted by the Sponsored Party through the Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 45. Security. (1) The Authority may after an Exploitation contract has been granted by the ISA to the Sponsored Party, and prior to Exploitation commencing, require a Sponsored Party to deposit security as a guarantee of performance of its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The form and value of any such security required, and the terms upon which it will be held, will be specified in a written agreement made under section 27, and will take into account the type and quantum of any security that the Sponsored Party is also required to deposit with the ISA. (3) Security deposited in accordance with this section may be used by the Authority to take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Sponsored Party fails to fulfil under this Act, or to rectify any damage or loss caused as a result of such failure.; Section 51. Public service employees prohibited from Seabed Mineral rights. (1) Unless any right or interest of an employee of the Republic has been approved and declared by Cabinet, no public service employee shall: (a) directly or indirectly acquire or retain any personal share-holding in a body corporate carrying on Seabed Mineral Activities under Nauru’s Sponsorship; or (b) act, directly or indirectly, to personally acquire any right or interest in any Sponsored Party’s contract for Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any document or transaction purporting to confer any right or interest on any such public officer who has acted in breach of subsection (1) shall be null and void. (3) Any public service employee in breach of subsection (1) shall be liable upon conviction to a fine of not less than $5,000 or to imprisonment for 5 years or both.; Section 55. Transitional Provisions. Where Nauru has provided a Certificate of Sponsorship to an ISA contractor prior to the commencement of this Act, that certificate shall be deemed to have been issued in accordance with this Act and shall remain valid unless and until it is terminated pursuant to this Act.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 3. Objectives of the Act. The objectives of this Act are to: (a) enable the implementation of the Republic’s international obligations as a Sponsoring State under the UNCLOS; (b) establish the Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority, a statutory body to carry out the Republic’s obligations to the ISA and as a Sponsoring State; (c) provide for a legal and administrative framework for a sponsorship arrangement to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Contract Area and to assist the ISA in exercising control over such Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) provide a legal and administrative framework to establish the relationship between the Republic and Sponsored Party and for the Republic to have Effective Control over the Sponsored Party; (e) provide for the Republic to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities and responsibility for the long-term management of ring-fenced Seabed Minerals Fund received by the Republic from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) provide a system for Sponsorship Applications, and the grant of Sponsorships Certificates under which Sponsored Parties will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (g) provide for a Sponsored Party to carry out Seabed Mineral Activities under the Republic’s Effective Control in conformity with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA and other applicable requirements of international law and specifically the Republic’s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (h) promote transparency in decision making on matters concerning the Republic’s management of Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) provide a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory environment for investors in Seabed Mineral Activities; s3 (j) secure optimum financial and other benefits, long term-economic growth and sustainable development for the Republic from its participation in Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations; and (k) ensure the availability of recourse for prompt and adequate compensation in respect of unlawful damage caused by Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 6. Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority. (1) The Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority is established. (2) The Authority shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession and may: (a) sue and be sued; (b) acquire, hold and dispose of property; (c) enter into any contract, agreement or any other transaction; and (d) do all other acts that may be done in law by a body corporate. (3) The Authority shall have a common seal, which shall be affixed for the purposes of executing any correspondence, document or instrument to bind the Authority. (4) All courts, judges and persons acting judicially shall: (a) take notice of the common seal of the Authority affixed to a document; and (b) presume the seal was duly affixed. (5) The Authority is a Government controlled public enterprise under Section 9 of the Public Enterprise Act 2019.; Section 9. Staff of the Authority. (1) The Board shall determine the number of persons to be employed by the Authority and the terms and conditions of persons employed. (2) The Board may adopt the terms and conditions provided for under the Public Service Act 2016 as terms and conditions applicable to persons employed by the Authority. (3) The Chief Executive Officer may with the approval of the Board appoint the staff of the Authority on a temporary, permanent or contractual basis.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 15. Requirements of the Sponsorship Application. A Sponsorship Application under Section 14(1) shall comply with the following requirements: (a) provide a duly completed application form; (b) provide documentary evidence to demonstrate that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; (c) provide a copy of the application for the approval of a plan of work to obtain a corresponding contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) provide a written undertaking to the Republic by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) together with its relevant Associates and Affiliates shall fully comply with the obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warrants that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship of the Republic; (e) provide a written report or any other form of record containing the studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities is intended to be conducted; (f) provide a written report or any other form of report conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (g) provide details of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed insurance, contingency funding or other methods proposed to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an incident; (h) provide the name, address and email and telephone contact or any other details of any Affiliate or Associate and a list of key personnel required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities and an indication if any of these are to be recruited from the Republic; (i) where applicable, provide a projection based on the current project details of the Seabed Mineral recovery payment and other amounts payable to the Republic; (j) provide a proposal for capacity building programme for the training of citizens of the Republic; (k) the requirements of this Act and any prescribed requirements; (l) provide a statement as to whether the Sponsored Applicant, its Associates, Affiliates or any of their directors and officers has previously been found on credible evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities; (ii) breached the relevant Rules of the ISA, any written law or applicable international law; (iii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in the Republic or another jurisdiction; or (iv) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; and (m) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 16. Processing of Sponsorship Applications. The Authority may in the consideration and determination of a Sponsorship Application: (a) request further information from a Sponsorship Applicant within a requisite time frame; (b) request the Sponsorship Applicant to amend any part of its Sponsorship Application; (c) undertake any inquiries and collect any information it considers appropriate about the Sponsorship Applicant and the Sponsorship Application; (d) consider relevant information in the public domain, or received through consultation including any information which the Republic may have already in its power, possession or control as part of official records; (e) take into account an earlier decision by the ISA to grant a Sponsorship Applicant, a contract for activities similar to those that are the subject of a Sponsorship Application, as evidence in relation to any of the Qualification Criteria for that Sponsorship Application; (f) obtain any necessary advice from Approved Experts or the ISA; (g) base decisions on Best Available Information; and (h) take into account any uncertainty or inadequacy in the information provided.; Section 17. Qualification Criteria for issuance of Sponsorship Certificate. The Qualification Criteria for a Sponsorship Applicant are as follows: (a) the applicant is an existing body corporate, incorporated and registered in the Republic or a public enterprise under the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (i) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) cover the costs of any potential liability arising from incidents, accidents, pollution, or any other serious harm occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) respond to any incident; (c) has adequate risk management strategies, capability and management systems to meet health and safety and environmental requirements under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) has implemented a system of corporate governance and transparency to support the proper performance of obligations under an ISA Contract, including the effective monitoring and management of Affiliates and Associates; (e) has implemented policies and codes of conduct that prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment or bullying and promote diversity and equality in the workplace; and (f) that each director or officer, its Affiliates and Associates that are involved in the management of the Sponsorship Applicant’s business, engaged or to be engaged in the conduct of all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities and their directors or officers, have not, in any jurisdiction been: (i) found on credible evidence to have breached a term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct seabed mineral activities or similar sea or land-based activity; (ii) convicted of an offence relating to the conduct of seabed mineral activities or other sea or land-based exploration or exploitation activity under any natural resource, health and safety, or environmental laws; or (iii) convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (g) in considering the criteria under paragraph (f), the Authority shall take into account the seriousness and impact of the Sponsorship Applicant’s conduct or that of a director or officer, or relevant Affiliate or Associate, and any mitigating circumstances, including any remedial action taken and the time elapsed since any breach or conviction; and (h) has paid the applicable fee.; Section 23. Application by Sponsored Party to ISA. (1) A Sponsored Party may, on the basis of the Sponsorship Application and Sponsorship Certificate, submit an application to the ISA for a contract for Exploration or Exploitation under the Republic’s sponsorship. (2) The Authority shall assist the Sponsored Party with the preparation and submission of the application to the ISA. (3) The costs of presenting that application to the ISA shall be met by the Sponsored Party, including any costs reasonably incurred by the Republic and approved by the Sponsored Party prior to such costs being incurred, in taking actions either requested by the Sponsored Party or deemed necessary by the Republic under the Rules of the ISA, to support the application before the ISA.; Section 24. Material Changes and updated information. (1) A Sponsored Party shall without delay notify the Authority in writing, where: (a) any of the information provided pursuant to Section 23 of this Act is proposed to be changed in any material particular, including as a result of comments received or amendments required by the ISA during the Sponsored Party’s application for an ISA contract or amendments to the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (b) any new or updated information arises that materially affects the Sponsored Party’s ability to meet the Qualification Criteria. (2) Where a notification is made pursuant to subsection (1), the Sponsored Party shall consider any comments provided by the Authority in relation to such proposed changes, including proposed changes to the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 27. Sponsored Party’s obligations in relation to Affiliates and. Associates (1) Subject to this Section, a Sponsored Party may engage any Associate or Affiliate to undertake all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any agreement or other arrangement between the Sponsored Party and any Associates or Affiliates engaged or to be engaged in all or any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities, shall contain appropriate terms and conditions by which the Associate or Affiliate agrees to comply with the Rules of the ISA and this Act, to the extent applicable to the activities undertaken by such Affiliate or Associate. (3) A Sponsored Party shall ensure that all Affiliates and Associates: (a) undertaking all or a material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities authorised by the ISA Contract are made aware of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) perform their work and tasks in conformity with the Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (c) permit the Authority or any Approved Expert appointed by the Authority to conduct an audit of any documents, records or information to verify compliance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (4) The Authority may request the Sponsored Party to provide documentary evidence, including copies of any relevant contracts and agreements concluded with relevant Associates or Affiliates to verify the requirements set out under subsection (2). (5) A Sponsored Party who delegates, contracts, or otherwise arranges for work or tasks under the ISA Contract to be carried out by an Affiliate, Associate or other third party is not discharged from the Sponsored Party’s obligations under the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (6) A Sponsored Party shall notify the Authority in writing of any proposed changes to the Affiliates or Associates that will undertake any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities on behalf of the Sponsored Party, not less than 30 days before the proposed date of the commencement of the proposed change. (7) The Authority may request that the Sponsored Party provide it with further information to determine that the Sponsored Party continues to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of this Act. (8) Any direction or warning issued to a Sponsored Party by the Authority shall extend to any Affiliate or Associate engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities for or on behalf of the Sponsored Party and the Sponsored Party shall give a copy of the direction to the Affiliate or Associate where the direction is relevant to the work or tasks being performed by such Associate or Affiliate. (9) Nothing in this Section precludes the Authority from issuing a direction directly to any relevant Affiliate or Associate. (10) A Sponsored Party that fails to comply with the requirements of this Section commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $500,000.; Section 28. Eligibility to perform Seabed Mineral Activities. To be eligible to perform Seabed Mineral Activities, a Sponsorship Applicant shall first: (a) obtain a valid Sponsorship Certificate from the Authority in accordance with this Act; and (b) enter into an ISA Contract, pertaining to those Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be: (a) responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage: (i) arising out of its failure to comply with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (ii) as a consequence of any act or omission in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (c) liable for any penalties arising out of its failure to comply with this UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The Republic shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities, including any acts or omission of the part of the Sponsored Party’s employees, except to the extent such actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims or demands arise from acts or omissions by the Authority in exercise of its powers and functions under this Act. (3) A Sponsored Party is required, together with any relevant Affiliate or Associate to execute a guarantee and indemnity in a form that is acceptable to the Authority, to indemnify the Authority and the Republic against any liability incurred by the Republic whether under the UNCLOS or otherwise arising from the conduct of the Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 30. Responsibilities of Nauru as a Sponsoring State. Where the Republic is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a corresponding ISA Contract to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, the Government or through the Authority shall: (a) take all appropriate means to exercise its Effective Control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the Republic, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (c) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (d) promote the application of the precautionary approach and implementation of best environmental practices and best available techniques in cooperation with the ISA and the Sponsored Party; (e) comply with its due diligence obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (f) within its competence and capabilities and in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA, adopt a plan to implement and modify measures for the effective protection of the Marine Environment which may arise from Seabed Mineral Activities, in cooperation with the ISA or on the advice of Approved Experts; (g) cooperate with the ISA to provide such data and information as is reasonably necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) assist the ISA in carrying out supervision, monitoring, audits and inspections of the Sponsored Party and cooperate with coastal States and flag States where relevant, with the aim to ensure the Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (i) assist the Sponsored Party in any interaction with the ISA relating to the administration of the ISA Contract, including clarification of any requirements under the Rules of the ISA; (j) provide the Sponsored Party with copies of any information or notices received by the Authority from the ISA, States Parties, other regulatory bodies or persons relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (k) accord the Sponsored Party fair and equitable treatment, and provide a stable and predictable legal framework and make decisions consistently and transparently; (l) keep the Sponsored Party informed of any amendments to any written law and the regulatory regime that may affect a Sponsored Party or their Seabed Mineral Activities and provide a Sponsored Party sufficient time to ensure that they are able to comply with those changes; (m) not nationalise or expropriate a Sponsored Party’s investment or take measures having effect equivalent to nationalisation or expropriation except for on a non-discriminatory basis and against prompt adequate and effective compensation, such compensation shall: (i) amount to the genuine value of the Sponsored Party’s investment immediately before the expropriation or before the impending expropriation becomes public knowledge whichever is the earlier; (ii) include interest at a normal commercial rate until the date of payment; (iii) be made without delay; (iv) be effectively realisable; and (v) be freely transferable; (n) accord all Sponsored Parties treatment no less favourable that the treatment it accords, in like situations, to other investors; (o) accord Sponsored Parties full security and protection; and (p) guarantee the conversion and transfer overseas of Sponsored Parties’ earnings and savings or earnings of expatriate personnel, their affiliates and subcontractors, resulting from the Seabed Minerals Activities.; Section 33. Records and Confidentiality. (1) The Authority shall keep and maintain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issued, Sponsorship Agreements, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority shall securely keep and maintain all confidential information received in accordance with the prescribed procedures, and shall not disclose such information unless: (a) it is permitted to be disclosed under Section 52 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) the disclosure is made for the purposes of or in connection with, the performance or exercise of any function, power or duty conferred under this Act or any other written law; (c) the disclosure is required by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator agreed to by the Parties; (d) the disclosure is made in connection with proceedings or any investigation or inquiry for proceedings, for an offence against this Act or any other enactment; (e) the information is: (i) required by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (ii) requested by the Secretary-General of the ISA or their designated representative in writing together with an explanation that such information is necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS; (iii) such that the Authority considers it may assist the ISA in securing compliance of a Sponsored Party under Article 153(4) of the UNCLOS; or (iv) required by another national regulatory agency where the Authority believes the information may assist such agency in the exercise of its powers or performance of its functions under an enactment relating to the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (f) the information is reasonably required by Approved Experts engaged by the Authority in the performance of their services, provided: (i) that such experts undertake in writing to keep the information confidential; and (ii) the disclosure is reasonably necessary in connection with the Authority in exercising its functions under this Act; or (g) the information is publicly available; (3) Where confidential information is required to be disclosed under subsection (2)(a) to (f), the Authority shall inform the Sponsored Party prior to such disclosure taking place. (4) Where the Authority intends to disclose any confidential information, the disclosure of which is not provided for under subsection (2), the Authority shall consult with the Sponsored Party about the content and nature of such disclosure and shall agree any disclosure with the Sponsored Party before any such disclosure occurs and subject to any terms and conditions that the parties consider appropriate. (5) Where the Authority becomes aware of a suspected or actual breach of this Section, the Authority shall immediately inform the Sponsored Party and take all practicable measures to prevent or cease the suspected or actual breach.; Section 35. Security of Tenure. A Sponsorship Certificate shall remain in force unless it is terminated in accordance with Section 36.; Section 36. Termination of Sponsorship. (1) A Sponsorship Certificate shall be terminated where: (a) the Sponsored Party’s corresponding ISA contract expires, is surrendered or is terminated under the Rules of ISA; (b) the Sponsorship Certificate is surrendered by the Sponsored Party in accordance with Section 39; (c) the Sponsorship Certificate is revoked by the Authority in accordance with Section 42; or (d) all the rights and obligations under the ISA Contract are assigned to a third party. (2) A Sponsorship granted by the Republic shall cease upon the termination of a Sponsorship Certificate.; Section 40. Assignment of rights and obligations. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a Sponsored Party may assign its rights and obligations under an ISA Contract in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the proposed assignee is neither a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic, nor under the Republic’s Effective Control, a Sponsored Party shall: (a) notify the Authority of the proposed assignment prior to applying to the ISA for consent to the assignment; (b) provide the Authority with an opportunity to respond on the proposed assignment or request consultations within 14 days after notification; and (c) respond to the Authorities response within 7 day of receiving such response. (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2)(a), the Sponsored Party may apply to the ISA for consent to the assignment at any time 30 days after the date of its notification under subsection (2)(a). (4) A Sponsored Party shall not assign its rights and obligations under an ISA contract without the prior approval of the Cabinet. (5) A Sponsorship Certificate may only be issued to an assignee where: (a) the Cabinet has approved the proposed assignment under subsection (4); (b) the Cabinet has approved the proposed assignee to take the assignment of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (c) the assignee is a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or an instrumentality which is under the Effective Control of the Government. (6) The consent and approval under subsections (1) and (2) shall not be unreasonably withheld, where the proposed assignee is eligible under this Act to be issued a Sponsorship Certificate. (7) An application shall be made to the Authority by both the Sponsored Party and proposed assignee in accordance with any prescribed procedure. (8) The Authority for the purpose of making a recommendation to the Cabinet under this Section shall: (a) request all such information from the proposed assignee as would be required of a Sponsorship Applicant under this Act; (b) require an undertaking from the proposed assignee that it will assume all of the obligations and liabilities of the Sponsored Party upon assignment; (c) require the Sponsored Party or proposed assignee to provide any other information that the Authority considers reasonably necessary to assess the application; and (d) require the payment of the prescribed fee. (9) The Cabinet’s approval under this Section may be given with or without conditions, which may include: (a) the execution of a guarantee and indemnity by the assignee pursuant to Section 29(3) of this Act; and (b) the provision of a Security Deposit by the assignee under Section 52 of this Act. (10) An assignment under this Section shall not affect the ongoing obligations or potential liability incurred by the Sponsored Party.; Section 42. Revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate. The Minister, on the Authority’s recommendation and with Cabinet approval, may revoke any Sponsorship Certificate, for one or more of the following reasons: (a) where, despite a written warning by the Authority, one or more of the Qualification Criteria ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under Section 52 is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) in any case, with the written consent of the Sponsored Party; (d) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of the Sponsored Party or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (e) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding 5 years from the date of signing the ISA Contract, except where the lack of material efforts is required to comply with the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise approved by the ISA; (f) where despite a written warning by the Authority, there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the relevant Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or regulations or administrative measures orders made under this Act or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party and such breach: (i) cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party; or (ii) has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (g) where, following at least 2 written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party, any payment due to the Republic is in arrears for 6 months from the day on which the amount became payable; (h) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority; and (i) where the Cabinet is satisfied that it is in the Republic’s interest to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, including to avoid conflict with any obligation of the Republic arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Republic.; Section 44. Temporary continuation of sponsorship. (1) Where the Minister revokes a Sponsorship Certificate under Section 42 and the reason does not relate to any material breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA or this Act, the Sponsored Party may request the Minister to temporarily continue sponsorship to: (a) give the Sponsored Party a reasonable opportunity to find another State Party to sponsor its Seabed Mineral Activities; and (b) permit the Seabed Mineral Activities to continue without adverse disruption to the Sponsored Party. (2) The Minister may approve such request provided that: (a) the Sponsored Party undertakes to continue to perform all its obligations under the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) the Sponsored Party demonstrates it will make all reasonable efforts to secure a replacement sponsoring State; and (c) the corresponding ISA Contract has not been suspended or terminated. (3) Where the Minister approves the temporary continuation of sponsorship under subsection (2), sponsorship shall continue until: (a) any surrender of the Sponsorship Certificate by the Sponsored Party under Section 39; (b) the effective completion date of the assignment of the rights and obligations under the ISA Contract; (c) a replacement sponsoring State has been secured and a Sponsorship Certificate issued; or (d) 2 years from the date the request under subsection (1) had been received by the Minister, whichever of paragraphs (a) to (d) occurs earlier.; Section 47. Seabed Mineral Recovery Payment. (1) A Sponsored Party holding an ISA Contract for Exploitation under the Republic’s sponsorship, shall pay to the Authority such sums by way of a Seabed Mineral recovery payment, as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement. (2) The Seabed Mineral recovery payment may be: (a) based on the percentage of the latest market value of the metal content contained in the Seabed Minerals recovered by the Sponsored Party through the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) expressed as a unit amount per metric ton of Seabed Minerals recovered from the ISA Contract Area. (3) A Sponsored Party shall lodge with the Authority a Seabed Mineral recovery payment return for the periods: (a) 1 January to 30 June; and (b) 1 July to 31 December, within 90 days after the end of the return period. (4) The Sponsored Party shall pay the amount due for a return period on the Day the return is required to be lodged with the Authority. (5) A payment to the Authority shall be made in the United States of America currency or other equivalent foreign currency. (6) The Authority may audit the Sponsored Party’s records in connection with a liability for the recovery payment.; Section 52. Security Deposit. (1) The Authority may after an Exploitation contract has been granted by the ISA to the Sponsored Party, and prior to Exploitation commencing, require a Sponsored Party to provide a Security Deposit as a guarantee of performance of its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The form and value of any such security required, and the terms upon which it will be held, shall be specified as a condition in a Sponsorship Agreement made under Section 25 and take into account the type and quantum of any security or guarantee that the Sponsored Party is also required to deposit with the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) A security deposited in accordance with this Section may be used by the Authority to: (a) take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Sponsored Party fails to fulfil under this Act or under terms of its Sponsorship Agreement; (b) rectify any damage or loss caused as a result of such failure; or (c) satisfy any order of compensation or damages made against the Sponsored Party by a court or tribunal. (4) The Authority may adjust the amount of an original security where there has been a material change in circumstances, including: (a) a change in the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party; or (b) a change in the scope, nature and magnitude of the Seabed Mineral Activities under an ISA Contract.; Section 57. Interference with Seabed Mineral Activities or the Authority. (1) No person shall: (a) interfere with any Seabed Mineral Activities or a vessel, installation or equipment used in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) cause: (i) physical hindrance to; (ii) obstruction to; or (iii) violence against, any officer, observer, inspector or other duly designated representative of the Authority or the ISA, or persons engaged by the Sponsored Party in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities in respect of the exercise of a power, or the performance of a function, under this Act or an ISA contract. (2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a), ‘interfere with’ means: (a) the wilful sabotage or attempted wilful sabotage of Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) any physical interference with the Seabed Mineral Activities or a vessel, installation or equipment used in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities, such that it causes or is likely to cause a danger to the health and safety of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) Any person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or to an imprisonment term not exceeding 10 years, or both.; Section 59. Public office holder prohibited from Seabed Mineral rights. (1) Unless any right or interest of a public office holder has been approved and declared by Cabinet, no public office holder shall: (a) directly or indirectly acquire or retain any personal share-holding in a body corporate carrying on Seabed Mineral Activities under the Republic’s Sponsorship; or (b) act, directly or indirectly, to personally acquire any right or interest in any Sponsored Party’s contract for Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any document or transaction purporting to confer any right or interest on any such public office holder who has acted in breach of subsection (1), shall be null and void. (3) A public office holder who contravenes subsection (1), commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine not less than $5,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or to both.; Section 66. Transitional and savings provision. (1) Where the Republic has provided a Sponsorship Certificate to a Sponsored Party under the repealed Act, such certificate shall be deemed to have been issued in accordance with this Act and shall remain valid unless and until it is terminated under this Act. (2) The Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority established under the repealed Act, is reconstituted under this Act and is deemed to continue with its existence under this Act. (3) An act, decision, undertaking or contract made or entered into under the provisions of the repealed Act, shall be deemed to have been made under this Act and shall remain valid unless it is varied, suspended or revoked under this Act. (4) A proceeding, cause or matter commenced under the repealed Act shall be continued to completion, as it if was commenced under this Act. (5) A member appointed under Section 8 of the repealed Act shall cease to hold office at the commencement of this Act. (6) A person appointed as an officer of the Authority under the repealed Act, is deemed to appointed under this Act and shall continue to hold such office until such time the appointment is varied, revoked or terminated under this Act. (7) The staff of the Authority shall conduct themselves in accordance with the requirements of Sections 57 and 58 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019 until such time as the Authority prescribes a Code of Conduct for its staff.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 5. Objects of this Act The objects of this Act are – (a) to establish a legal framework and domestic and international investment environment for the development of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; (b) to establish a legal framework for, and the efficient control of, contractors sponsored by the Kingdom to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (c) to ensure that Seabed Mineral Activities within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction, or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area, are carried out according to best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including the Kingdom‘s responsibilities under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (d) to promote transparency in decision-making on matters concerning the Kingdom‘s management of Seabed Minerals within its jurisdiction or under its sponsorship in the Area; (e) to secure economic development of the Kingdom through the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; Page 12 2020 Revised Edition (f) to secure optimum benefit to the Kingdom from Mining and to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations of Tongans.; Section 7. Application of Act (1) This Act applies to – (a) all individuals, whether or not citizens of or resident in the Kingdom; and (b) all bodies corporate, whether or not incorporated or carrying on business in the Kingdom. (2) This Act shall regulate the Prospecting, Exploration and Mining of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, and the Sponsorship by the Kingdom of Exploration and Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area. (3) This Act does not apply to the exploration for or recovery of petroleum.; Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition; Section 22. Inspectors’ Powers (1) Any person appointed by the Authority as an Inspector under section 21(3) of this Act, shall, if reasonably necessary for the purpose of determining compliance with this Act, be entitled at all reasonable times and with reasonable notice to a Title Holder to— (a) board or obtain access to the Licence Area or Contract Area and all parts of any premises, vessel or equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) inspect or test any machinery or equipment that in the Inspector‘s opinion is being or is intended to be used for the purposes of Seabed Mineral Activities and, if the Inspector deems fit, to dismantle, test to destruction or take possession of any such machinery or equipment; (c) remove any samples or assays of such samples from any vessel or equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) examine and take copies of books, accounts, documents or records of any kind required to be kept under this Act, Regulations, and the Title; (e) require the Title Holder to carry out such procedures in respect of any equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities as may be deemed necessary by the Authority; (f) document any site visit or inspection activity using any reasonable means including video, audio, photograph or other form of recording; (g) upon written authorisation from the Authority, perform any other functions of the Authority as its representative, including the issue of Orders under sections 15 (Information Order) and 23 (Enforcement Order) of this Act; and (h) conduct any additional actions as prescribed. (2) An Inspector shall take all reasonable steps to avoid- expending excessive time on a Title Holders‘ vessel or platform at-sea, disruption of Seabed Mineral Activities, or interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels. (3) A Title Holder and its officers and agents shall make best endeavours to co- operate with the reasonable requests and exercise of powers by an Inspector. (4) The wilful obstruction by any person of the work of an Inspector, or the failure by a Title Holder or its officer or agent to comply with sub-section (3), commits an offence. (5) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000. 2020 Revised Edition Page 21; Section 64. Exclusivity of Licence and Security of Tenure (1) The Licence will, in consideration of- (a) payments required by Regulations and in the Licence; and (b) the performance and observance by the Licensee of all the terms and conditions provided by this Act, Regulations, and the terms of the Licence, grant to the Licensee during the continuance of the Licence, exclusive rights to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities with regards to the specified Seabed Minerals of the Licensed Area and to conduct Ancillary Operations, in accordance with the agreed Exploration or Mining work plan contained in the Licence. (2) The Authority will not vary, suspend, or revoke any Licence except in accordance with this Act. (3) A Licence may be renewed for successive periods by the Authority in accordance with this Act and there is a presumption that an Exploration Page 38 2020 Revised Edition Licensee who has performed satisfactorily, will be granted a Mining Licence over the same site.; Section 70. Duties and Liability of Licensee (1) Licensees shall comply with the terms of the Licence, this Act, and any Regulations made under this Act. (2) The Licensee is responsible for the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations carried out within its Licence Area, and their compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and the Licence. (3) The Licensee shall at all times keep the Kingdom indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to its Seabed Mineral Activities, and will be liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage arising out of its failure to comply with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or the Licence, and any wrongful acts or omissions and those of its employees, officers, subcontractors, and agents in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations under Licence, including but not limited to that arising from injury to coastal or marine users, damage to the Marine Environment, and any related economic loss or compensation. (4) Any obligations which are to be observed and performed by the Licensee shall at any time at which the Licensee is more than one person be joint and several obligations. (5) The Licensee shall remain liable for damage resulting from its Seabed Minerals Activities notwithstanding that its Title may have been terminated or suspended.; Section 77. Entry into Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area (1) The Authority may in any manner it sees fit invite Sponsorship Applications, or entertain discussions, with Sponsorship Applicants or potential Sponsorship Applicants. (2) To be eligible to perform Seabed Mineral Activities under the Kingdom’s Sponsorship a Sponsorship Applicant shall first – (a) obtain a valid Sponsorship Certificate from the Authority; and (b) obtain a valid contract from the ISA, pertaining to those Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area. (3) Upon Application to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities within the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom, and following such format and processes as may be prescribed, the Authority may take a decision - (a) to issue to an Applicant - (i) a Sponsorship Certificate for Exploration; or (ii) a Sponsorship Certificate for Mining, committing to sponsor the Applicant to conduct specified Seabed Mineral Activities within the Area under contract with the International Seabed Authority; or (b) not to issue any Sponsorship Certificate. (4) The Authority may provide opportunity for members of the public or interest groups representing the public to provide information be taken into account by the Authority in taking a decision under subsection (1). (5) The Authority shall not issue a Sponsorship Certificate where in the Authority‘s reasonable opinion, the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities - (i) are likely to result in irreparable harm to any community, cultural practice or industry in the Kingdom; or (ii) would not be in the public interest of the Kingdom.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 83. Continuing obligations of the Sponsored Party The obligations of the Sponsored Party contained in this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or in the Sponsorship Certificate or any Sponsorship agreement will where applicable commence before, and continue beyond, the period during which the Sponsored Party is actively performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations under contract with the International Seabed Authority in the Area.; Section 84. Liability of Sponsored Party (1) The Sponsored Party shall be responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and will be liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage or penalties arising out of its failure so to comply, or out of any wrongful acts or omissions and those of its employees, officers, subcontractors, and agents in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any obligations which are to be observed and performed by the Sponsored Party shall at any time at which the Sponsored Party is more than one person be joint and several obligations. (3) A Sponsored Party shall at all times keep the Kingdom indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to its Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 85. Crown Responsibilities Where the Kingdom is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, the Kingdom will, via the Authority- (a) take all actions necessary to give effect to the Kingdom‘s Sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communications with, and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to, the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (b) ensure that its conduct in relation to the ISA, the Area and Seabed Mineral Activities adheres to the requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (c) take all appropriate means to exercise its effective control over Sponsored Parties or, seeking to ensure that their Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Rules of the ISA and other requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (d) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate, or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under 2020 Revised Edition Page 49 this Act or Regulations to be made under this Act except insofar as these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; and (e) promote the application of the Precautionary Approach.; Section 88. Variation, suspension and revocation of Sponsorship Certificate (1) The Authority may vary, suspend or revoke any Sponsorship Certificate — (a) where any of the prerequisite conditions required under section 78 this Act ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - Page 50 2020 Revised Edition (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any persons; or (b) the Marine Environment; or (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Sponsored Party; (e) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Sponsored Party, or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (f) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding five years from the date of signing the contract with the ISA; (g) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or Regulations made under this Act, an Order made under this Act, or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party, and such breach cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party, or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (h) where, following at least two written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party in accordance with this Act, any payment or deposit required or owing under this Act or any part thereof is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; (i) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority; and (j) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section of the Act the Authority shall – (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 30 days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice, or a copy of the notice has been given to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe, if there are any objections; (b) give a copy of the notice to any such other persons as the Authority thinks fit; 2020 Revised Edition Page 51 (c) take into account any submissions made in accordance with the notice; and (d) where the decision is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, give the Sponsored Party no fewer than six months‘ notice before that revocation takes place.; Section 91. Payments by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties (1) Application fee An Applicant for a Title under this Act shall upon Application pay to the Authority the prescribed fee, which shall be non-recoverable. (2) Sponsorship payments The holder of a Sponsorship Certificate shall pay to the Authority - (a) such sums by way of annual administrative fees for the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of its Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, and (b) where the Sponsorship Certificate pertains to a contract for Mining in the Area, such sums by way of a commercial recovery payment, at such times and in such amounts as may be prescribed, or provided in the Sponsorship Certificate or a Sponsorship agreement made under this Act. (3) Taxes Licensees, and their sub-contractors, advisors, and employees shall pay all applicable customs duties and taxes in accordance with the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Page 52 2020 Revised Edition (4) Seabed Minerals royalties The holder of a Mining Licence shall pay such sums by way of royalties for the extraction of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals and at such times as may be specified under the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Each payment shall be accompanied by details of the Seabed Minerals produced, sold or disposed of, and the details of the payment and how it has been calculated.; Section 118. Import Duties (1) A Title Holder and its nominated contractors and subcontractors engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are hereby permitted to import into Tonga‘s jurisdiction free of duty or other taxes on imports of machinery, equipment, vehicles, materials and supplies where imports of any of the said categories have been certified by the Title Holder to be for use solely in carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities under the Title. (2) Any of the items imported into the Kingdom may, if no longer required for the Seabed Mineral Activities, be freely exported at any time by the importing party without the payment of any export or import duty. (3) On the sale or transfer by the importer of any duty free imported items to any person in the Kingdom, import duty shall be payable by the importer on the value thereof at the date of such sale or transfer.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 13; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 151. Politique en matière de production; Article 153. Système d’exploration et d’exploitation; Article 155. Conférence de révision; Article 160. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 161. Composition, procédure et vote; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 165. La commission juridique et technique; Article 171. Ressources financières de l’Autorité; Article 174. Capacité de l’Autorité de contracter des emprunts; Article 187. Compétence de la chambre pour le règlement des; Article 189. Limitation de compétence en ce qui concerne les
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 143. Marine scientific research; Article 151. Production policies; Article 153. System of exploration and exploitation; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 161. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission; Article 187. Jurisdiction of the Seabed Disputes Chamber; Article 188. Submission of disputes to a special chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea or an ad hoc chamber of the Seabed Disputes Chamber or to binding commercial arbitration; Article 189. Limitation on jurisdiction with regard to decisions of the Authority
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term:; Section 970.302. Procedures and criteria for resolving conflicts.
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term; Section 971.214. Consolidated license and permit procedures.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1403. Definitions.; Section 1441. Declaration of Congressional intent.

reserved_areas_and_the_enterprise (246)

Reserved areas, the Enterprise, joint arrangements, and parallel-system access to the Area.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify 1. Nothing in these Regulations shall affect the rights and legitimate interests of coastal States under the Convention, including but not limited to article 142. 2. Applicants, contractors, as well as the Enterprise, shall take all necessary measures to ensure that their activities and foreseen activities in the Area are conducted with due regard to the rights and legitimate interests of the [relevant] [potentially affected] coastal States under the Convention and in accordance with applicable regulations and Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. 3. Without prejudice to other necessary measures taken pursuant to paragraph 2, Applicants, contractors or the Enterprise shall engage with potentially affected coastal States, including by conducting consultations, at an early stage including prior to and after submitting an application and throughout the Exploitation Contract, in accordance with these Regulations and the applicable Standards, and taking into account the Guidelines. 4. The potentially affected coastal States referred to in paragraph 3 above shall [include] / [comprise]:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Annex III to the Convention.; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 29 ter Certification of origin; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights. ] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans [1. The Council may request the Commission to prepare a Regional Environmental Management Plan for the regional areas where activities in the Area are likely to take place, for consideration and adoption by the Council.]; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 56. Funding of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. Consistent with the polluter-pays principle, the ECF shall consist of a one-time contribution paid by Contractors and/or the Enterprise following the approval of a [Plan of Work] and prior to [Commercial Production] [the commencement of activities under an Exploitation Contract], as well as an annual levy paid to the ECF by Contractors and/or the Enterprise, both as determined by the Authority.; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States ].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Section IV. Financial information; Section VI. Previous contracts with the Authority; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 29 ter Certification of origin; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights.] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 56. Funding of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. Consistent with the polluter-pays principle, the ECF shall consist of a one-time contribution paid by Contractors and/or the Enterprise following the approval of a [Plan of Work] and prior to [Commercial Production] [the commencement of activities under an Exploitation Contract], as well as an annual levy paid to the ECF by Contractors and/or the Enterprise, both as determined by the Authority.; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures; Section IV. Financial information; Section VI. Previous contracts with the Authority; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 20
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 2. Prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 9. Dispositions générales Sous réserve des dispositions de la Convention, les entités ci-après peuvent présenter à l’Autorité des demandes d’approbation de plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration : a) L’Entreprise, en son nom propre, ou dans le cadre d’un accord de coentreprise;; Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Superficie totale de la zone visée par la demande; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 14. Précédents contrats avec l’Autorité Si le demandeur ou, lorsque la demande émane d’une association ou d’un consortium d’entités liées entre elles par un accord de coentreprise, si un membre de l’association ou du consortium a précédemment obtenu un contrat de l’Autorité, sont indiqués dans la demande : a) La date du contrat ou des contrats précédents;; Article 16. Choix du demandeur entre la remise d’un secteur réservé ou une participation au capital d’une entreprise conjointe Dans sa demande, le demandeur choisit entre les options suivantes : a) Remettre un secteur réservé pour les activités devant être menées au titre de l’annexe III, article 9, de la Convention, conformément à l’article 17 du présent Règlement; ou; Article 17. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 18. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Section II. Informations relatives à la zone visée par la demande; Section VI. Contrats antérieurs
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 16. Право заявителя на выбор между передачей зарезервированного района или предложением доли в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия Каждый заявитель в своей заявке выбирает либо: a) передать зарезервированный район для проведения деятельности согласно статье 9 приложения III к Конвенции в соответствии с правилом 17; либо; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 12. Total area covered by the application; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 14. Previous contracts with the Authority Where the applicant or, in the case of an application by a partnership or consortium of entities in a joint arrangement, any member of the partnership or consortium, has previously been awarded any contract with the Authority, the application shall include:; Regulation 15. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 16. Applicant’s election of a reserved area contribution or equity interest in a joint venture arrangement Each applicant shall, in the application, elect either to:; Regulation 17. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 19. Equity interest in a joint venture arrangement; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Section II. Information relating to the area under application; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section VI. Previous contracts
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 20
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 2. Prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 9. Dispositions générales Sous réserve des dispositions de la Convention, les entités ci-après peuvent présenter à l’Autorité des demandes d’approbation de plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration : a) L’Entreprise, en son nom propre, ou dans le cadre d’un accord de coentreprise;; Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Capacité financière et technique; Article 13. Précédents contrats avec l’Autorité Si le demandeur ou, lorsque la demande émane d’une association ou d’un consortium d’entités liées entre elles par un accord de coentreprise, si un membre de l’association ou du consortium a précédemment obtenu un contrat de l’Autorité, sont indiqués dans la demande : a) La date du contrat ou des contrats antérieurs;; Article 16. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 17. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 21. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Section II. Informations relatives à la zone visée par la demande; Section VI. Contrats antérieurs
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 16. Данные и информация, представленные до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 21. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 12. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 13. Previous contracts with the Authority Where the applicant or, in the case of an application by a partnership or consortium of entities in a joint arrangement, any member of the partnership or consortium, has previously been awarded any contract with the Authority, the application shall include:; Regulation 14. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 16. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 17. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 21. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Section II. Information relating to the area under application; Section III. Financial and technical informationa; Section VI. Previous contracts
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 18; Paragraph 19; Paragraph 20
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 2. Prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 9. Dispositions générales Sous réserve des dispositions de la Convention, les entités ci-après peuvent présenter à l’Autorité des demandes d’approbation de plans de travail relatifs à l’exploration : a) L’Entreprise, en son nom propre, ou dans le cadre d’un accord de coentreprise;; Article 11. Certificat de patronage; Article 12. Zone visée par la demande; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 14. Précédents contrats avec l’Autorité Si le demandeur ou, lorsque la demande émane d’une association ou d’un consortium d’entités liées entre elles par un accord de coentreprise, si un membre de l’association ou du consortium a précédemment obtenu un contrat de l’Autorité, sont indiqués dans la demande : a) La date du contrat ou des contrats précédents;; Article 16. Choix du demandeur entre la remise d’un secteur réservé ou une offre de participation à une entreprise conjointe Dans sa demande, le demandeur choisit entre les options suivantes : a) Remettre un secteur réservé pour les activités devant être menées au titre de l’annexe III, article 9, de la Convention, conformément à l’article 17 du présent Règlement; ou; Article 17. Données et informations à fournir avant la désignation d’un secteur réservé; Article 18. Demandes d’approbation de plans de travail concernant un secteur réservé; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Section II. Informations relatives à la zone visée par la demande; Section VI. Contrats antérieurs
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 16. Право заявителя на выбор между передачей зарезервированного района или долей в акционерном капитале в рамках механизма совместного предприятия Каждый заявитель в своей заявке выбирает либо: a) передать зарезервированный район для проведения деятельности согласно статье 9 приложения III к Конвенции в соответствии с правилом 17, либо;; Правило 17. Данные и информация, предоставляемые до обозначения зарезервированного района; Правило 23. Рассмотрение заявок Юридической и технической комиссией; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 4. Consideration of notifications; Regulation 9. General Subject to the provisions of the Convention, the following may apply to the Authority for approval of plans of work for exploration:; Regulation 10. Form of applications; Regulation 11. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 12. Total area covered by the application; Regulation 13. Financial and technical capabilities; Regulation 14. Previous contracts with the Authority Where the applicant or, in the case of an application by a partnership or consortium of entities in a joint arrangement, any member of the partnership or consortium, has previously been awarded any contract with the Authority, the application shall include:; Regulation 15. Undertakings Each applicant, including the Enterprise, shall, as part of its application for approval of a plan of work for exploration, provide a written undertaking to the Authority that it will:; Regulation 16. Applicant’s election of a reserved area contribution or equity interest in a joint venture arrangement Each applicant shall, in the application, elect either to:; Regulation 17. Data and information to be submitted before the designation of a reserved area; Regulation 18. Applications for approval of plans of work with respect to a reserved area; Regulation 19. Equity interest in a joint venture arrangement; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Section II. Information relating to the area under application; Section III. Financial and technical information; Section VI. Previous contracts
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 163
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 3; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 83; Paragraph 84; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 201; Paragraph 204; Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 283 of the Convention; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 54; Paragraph 91; Paragraph 143
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 28. Graticulation of earth’s surface For the purpose of this Act, the surface of the earth is deemed to be divided into graticular sections- (a) by the meridian of Greenwich and by the meridians that are at a distance from that meridian of 10 minutes or a multiple of 10 minutes of longitude; (b) by the equator and by parallels of latitude that are a distance from the equator of 10 minutes, or a multiple of 10 minutes of latitude; and (c) each of which is bounded by- (i) portions of two of those meridians that are at a distance from each other of 10 minutes of longitude; and (ii) portions of two of those parallels of latitude that are at a distance from each other of 10 minutes of latitude.; Section 32. Reserved areas (1) The Authority shall not under section 31 of this Act designate as an area or areas of the Kingdom‘s Continental Shelf to be released for the purpose of Seabed Mineral Activities any area or part of an area declared to be a Marine Reserve or Protected Area. (2) If there is no Title over a particular area of the Kingdom‘s Continental Shelf, the Authority may, by Gazette Notice declare the area to be a reserved area. (3) Areas may be reserved by the Authority for purposes inter alia of marine spatial management, environmental protection, or for tender. (4) While a reserved area declaration under sub-section (2) is in force, the Authority shall not tender or grant a Title over any block or blocks contained in that reserved area.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 10; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 153. Système d’exploration et d’exploitation
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 144. Transfer of technology; Article 150. Policies relating to activities in the Area; Article 151. Production policies; Article 153. System of exploration and exploitation; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 158. Organs of the Authority; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission; Article 169. Consultation and cooperation with international and non-governmental organizations; Article 170. The Enterprise; Article 171. Funds of the Authority; Article 173. Expenses of the Authority; Article 177. Privileges and immunities; Article 187. Jurisdiction of the Seabed Disputes Chamber

benefit_sharing_and_financial_regime (176)

Equitable sharing of financial and other economic benefits; payments, contributions, royalties, financial terms of contracts.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 10. Preliminary review of application by the Secretary-General 1. The Secretary-General shall preliminarily review an application for approval of a Plan of Work and determine whether the application contains all [the documents regarding] the information required by regulations 5 to 8 for further processing. 2. Where the Secretary-General determines that an application does not contain all the [documents regarding the] information required by regulations 5 to 8, the SecretaryGeneral shall, within 45 Days of receipt of the application, notify the Applicant, specifying the information which the Applicant must submit in order to complete the application. Further processing of an application will not begin until the Secretary General determines that the application is complete, which includes all required information having been submitted by the Applicant, including payment of the administrative fee specified in regulation 86. [2. bis Where the Secretary-General considers that an application contains [the documents regarding] the information required by regulations 5 to 8, it shall circulate to members of the Authority non-confidential information of a general nature regarding the application, and information enabling them to access a non -confidential version of the application.]; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 61. [Implementation and Monitoring of the Final Closure Plan] 1. The purpose of Closure monitoring is [to]:; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Section 2. [Determination of Royalties and Payments under the Exploitation Contract]; Regulation 64. Royalty payment A Contractor, from the date of commencement of Commercial Production, shall pay a royalty in respect of the Mineral-bearing ore sold [,during the time of reduction, sold,] or removed without sale from the Contract Area as determined pursuant to paragraph 1 of Section 8 of the Annex to the Agreement in accordance with the applicable Standard. [This regulation is without prejudice to article 11, paragraph 3, of Annex III to the Convention.] Regulation 64bis Equalization measure [A Contractor, from the date that its Plan of Work has been approved, shall pay the equalization measure as determined in accordance with the applicable Standard governing the equalization measure [subject to article 10 of Annex IV to the Convention]. Regulation 64ter Environmental costs The financial terms of a contract shall reflect the environmental externalities of the Exploitation activities permitted under the contract and throughout the value chain. To this end, the Authority shall levy a further royalty reflecting environmental externalities in accordance with regulation 64quat. The further royalty shall complement the royalty provided for in regulation 64.] [Regulation 64 quat. Environmental costs royalties; Section 3. Royalty returns and payment of royalty; Regulation 66. Form of royalty returns A royalty return lodged with the Secretary-General shall be in the form prescribed by the applicable Standard and taking into account the Guidelines and signed by the Contractor’s designated official.; Regulation 67. Royalty return period A royalty return period for the purposes of this Part is a half-year return period, from:; Regulation 68. Lodging of royalty returns; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 70. Payment of royalty shown by royalty return; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 72. [Authority may request additional information] [Request for Additional Information] The Secretary-General may, by notice to a Contractor who has lodged a royalty return, request the Contractor to provide, by the date stated in the notice, which shall be no later than 90 Days from the date of the notice, [additional] information to support the matters stated in the royalty return.; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 79. Interest on unpaid royalty; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 83 bis. Beneficial Ownership Registry; Section 1. Annual fees; Regulation 84. Annual reporting fee; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Section 2. Fees other than annual fees; Regulation 86. Application fee for approval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 87. Other applicable fees A Contractor shall pay other prescribed fees in respect of any matter specified by the Council, based on the recommendations of the Finance Committee, in accordance with the applicable rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority.; Regulation 88. Review and payment; Regulation 22 and Instruments of Transfer or Assignment in accordance with regulation 23;; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 9. Extension 9.1 20.] [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 10. Preliminary review of application by the Secretary-General; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 19. Joint arrangements; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 23. Transfer of rights and obligations under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Section 2. [][Determination of Royalties and Payments under the Exploitation Contract]; Regulation 64. Royalty payment A Contractor, from the date of commencement of Commercial Production, shall pay a royalty in respect of the Mineral-bearing ore sold [,during the time of reduction, sold,] or removed without sale from the Contract Area as determined pursuant to paragraph 1 of Section 8 of the Annex to the Agreement in accordance with the applicable Standard. [This regulation is without prejudice to article 11, paragraph 3, of Annex III to the Convention.] Regulation 64bis Equalization measure [A Contractor, from the date that its Plan of Work has been approved, shall pay the equalization measure as determined in accordance with the applicable Standard governing the equalization measure [subject to article 10 of Annex IV to the Convention]. Regulation 64ter Environmental costs The financial terms of a contract shall reflect the environmental externalities of the Exploitation activities permitted under the contract and throughout the value chain. To this end, the Authority shall levy a further royalty reflecting environmental externalities in accordance with regulation 64quat. The further royalty shall complement the royalty provided for in regulation 64.] [Regulation 64 quat. Environmental costs royalties; Section 3. Royalty returns and payment of royalty; Regulation 66. Form of royalty returns A royalty return lodged with the Secretary-General shall be in the form prescribed by the applicable Standard and taking into account the Guidelines and signed by the Contractor’s designated official.; Regulation 67. Royalty return period A royalty return period for the purposes of this Part is a half-year return period, from: 1 January to 30 June; and 1 July to 31 December.; Regulation 68. Lodging of royalty returns; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 70. Payment of royalty shown by royalty return; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 72. [Authority may request additional information] [Request for Additional Information] The Secretary-General may, by notice to a Contractor who has lodged a royalty return, request the Contractor to provide, by the date stated in the notice, which shall be no later than 90 Days from the date of the notice, [additional] information to support the matters stated in the royalty return.; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 77. General anti-avoidance rule; Regulation 79. Interest on unpaid royalty; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 83 bis. Beneficial Ownership Registry; Section 1. Annual fees; Regulation 84. Annual reporting fee; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Section 2. Fees other than annual fees; Regulation 86. Application fee for approval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 87. Other applicable fees A Contractor shall pay other prescribed fees in respect of any matter specified by the Council, based on the recommendations of the Finance Committee, in accordance with the applicable rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority.; Regulation 88. Review and payment; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 9. Extension 9.1 [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation 20.] [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 2
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Раздел 3. Сборы; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第6条年度报告; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第21条申请费; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Section 3. Fees; Regulation 21. Fee for applications
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Раздел 3. Сборы; Правило 19. Сбор за заявку; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第6条年度报告; 第12条财政和技术能力; 第19条申请费; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Section 3. Fees; Regulation 19. Fee for applications
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 2
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Раздел 3. Сборы; Правило 21. Сбор за заявку; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第6条年度报告; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第21条申请费; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Section 3. Fees; Regulation 21. Fee for applications
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 157
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 157
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 153
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 8. (xii) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and. apply the use of Best Available Scientific Information; (e) include the results of any consultation conducted by the applicant with any interest groups or the general public in Nauru, including through any Environmental Impact Assessment or social impact assessment process. (f) include the information under Schedule 1; and (g) include the applicable fee. (3) Where the information required under this regulation is presented in the draft ISA application, the applicant may make reference to the relevant part of the draft ISA application when providing the information to the Authority. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications by the Authority (1) On the receipt of an application the Chief Executive Officer shall immediately make a written record of the date and time of receipt. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall give an applicant written acknowledgment of receipt specifying the date and time of receipt within 5 days after the date the Authority receives an application. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall place the application in safe custody and ensure the confidentiality of all information contained in the application in accordance with the Authority’s information management procedures. Authority may request further information (1) Where the Chief Executive Officer determines within 10 days after the date the Authority receives an application that the application does not comply with regulation 4 the Chief Executive Officer shall, in writing, request further information from the applicant or require the applicant to revise the application. (2) The applicant shall, within 10 days after the date it receives a request or at any other time approved by the Chief Executive Officer provide the information under subregulation (1). (3) The Chief Executive Officer may return an application without a decision or further processing of the application where the applicant fails to comply with a reasonable request under subregulation (2). Authority may commission expert review of an application (1) The Chief Executive Officer may commission an approved expert to review any part of the application.; Section 9. (2) The review may include whether the:. (a) application demonstrates that the applicant satisfies or will satisfy the requirements under Section 15 and the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act; or (b) draft ISA application complies in all material respects with the requirements of the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) Where the Chief Executive Officer intends to commission a review, the Chief Executive Officer shall: (a) notify the applicant in writing; and (b) include, with that notification: (i) the Chief Executive Officer’s reasons for deciding to commission a review; (ii) details of the approved expert; and (iii) an estimate of the cost of such review. (4) Where the cost of such review is not included in the applicable fee pursuant to regulation 54, the Chief Executive Officer shall consult the applicant and obtain their prior agreement to such cost. (5) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 5 days after the date he or she receives the results of any review, send a copy of the results to the applicant. (6) Where the Chief Executive Officer intends to request such advice, he or she may extend the 30 day period specified in regulation 9(1) by an additional period not exceeding 10 days. Consultation with ISA (1) The Authority through the Chief Executive Officer shall, pursuant to Section 16 of the Act, consult with the ISA on any matter relating to the Sponsorship Application. (2) Consultation may include the following subjects:; Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 51. Application for approval to assign rights and obligations under an ISA. contract (1) For the purposes of Section 40(4) of the Act, if the intended assignee is under Nauru’s effective control, the Sponsored Party and intended assignee shall apply jointly in writing to the Authority for the issue of a new Sponsorship Certificate to such assignee, being a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or a Nauruan public enterprise. (2) The application shall be accompanied by: (a) a certified copy of the relevant transfer agreement or instrument concluded or to be concluded between the sponsored party and the intended assignee; (b) a copy of the application for approval to transfer rights and obligations under an ISA contract made to the ISA; (c) a statement of the reasons for the assignment and details of the activities to be conducted by the intended assignee for the remaining term of ISA contract; (d) a statement of the intended assignee’s ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act supported by the relevant information prescribed in Schedule 1 to these Regulations; (e) an undertaking that the intended assignee assumes all of the obligations of the transferor; (f) a final compliance statement under regulation 32(5); and (g) the applicable fee. (3) The application may include a statement of any matter that the Sponsored Party and intended assignee requests the Authority, the Minister and the Cabinet to consider in deciding whether to consent and approve to the assignment. (4) Where the Authority requests further information pursuant to Section 40(8)(c) of the Act, the Sponsored Party or intended assignee shall, within 10 days after receiving such request provide the information requested.; Section 53. Notification of change of ownership, constitution or control of a. Sponsored Party (1) For the purposes of Section 41(2) of the Act a notification by the Sponsored Party shall: (a) be given as soon as practicable before the change and where it is not practicable to notify before the change, such change shall be notified no later than 20 days after the effective date of the significant change; (b) be accompanied by: (c) (i) a copy of any agreement or other relevant document or instrument that specifies the change; (ii) full particulars of the new owners or controllers, including their beneficial owners; include a declaration: (i) from the Sponsored Party that it continues to meet the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act; and (ii) in the case of the change of control of a guarantor of any Security Deposit provided under Section 52 of the Act or any performance guarantee or bond provided under the relevant Rules of the ISA, a statement from the guarantor that it has the financial capability to meet its obligations under any such deposit, guarantee or bond. (2) Where, pursuant to Section 41(4) of the Act, the Authority determines that one or more Qualification Criteria is not met in a material particular, the Authority shall issue a compliance direction under regulation 46 requiring the Sponsored Party to rectify any deficiency within 30 days or such longer period as the Authority considers reasonable in the circumstances.; Section 54. Method for determining applicable fees. (1) The Board shall, when determining applicable fees under the Act and these Regulations, take all reasonable steps to recover from an applicant or Sponsored Party the actual, reasonable and relevant costs incurred by the Authority in relation to the processing of an application for sponsorship under the Act and these Regulations, as well as the ongoing administration and supervision of the sponsorship granted under the Act and these Regulations. (2) Where the Authority considers that it is appropriate to do so, it may: (a) require the applicant to make a reasonable advance payment for the relevant costs that it is entitled to recover; (b) determine the balance of the amount payable after carrying out the work necessary to process an application or provide assistance in accordance with the Regulations; and (c) require the applicant to pay the balance that it is entitled to recover prior to the notification of the decision of an application. (3) Prior to incurring any direct costs, including the costs of approved experts, the Authority shall seek the prior agreement of the applicant or Sponsored Party to such costs. (4) In determining applicable fees under this regulation, the Authority shall take account of any annual administration fee payable by a Sponsored Party under Section 46 of the Act to ensure there is no duplication of costs payable under this regulation. (5) For the purpose of this regulation, ‘relevant costs’ means administrative and other expenses which the Authority reasonably incur under the Act and these Regulations relating to the following functions and services, including: (a) providing assistance to an applicant in the preparation of an application to the ISA; (b) receiving, processing or deciding an application for sponsorship; (c) administering and supervising a sponsorship arrangement; (d) gathering and processing information required under these Regulations or the conditions of Sponsorship Agreement; (e) reviewing the conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement; and (f) contracting approved experts.; Section 58. Information to be submitted on termination of sponsorship or cessation. of Seabed Mineral Activities Upon termination of a Sponsorship Certificate or a cessation of Seabed Mineral Activities a Sponsored Party shall submit the following information to the Authority: (a) a statement, accompanied by supporting evidence: (i) that where applicable, the Closure Plan has been or will be implemented effectively; (ii) that significant residual Environmental Risks and effects have been identified and will be monitored and managed in accordance with the Closure Plan; (iii) that all remediation, restoration rehabilitation required to be undertaken under the Closure Plan has been completed or will be put in place; (b) details of the expected costs to implement the closure requirements under paragraph (a); (c) the final compliance statement, final seabed minerals recovery payment report and any other technical reports that may be requested by the Authority or required under the Applicable Guideline; (d) the following declarations, in the form of a statutory declaration: (i) a declaration that the Seabed Mineral Activities have ceased; (ii) a declaration that there are no outstanding liabilities under the Act or these Regulations; (iii) a declaration that all fees, royalties, or penalties under the Act or these Regulations have been paid; (iv) a declaration that outlines any legal proceedings in respect of the Seabed Mineral Activities that involve the Sponsored Party as a party to those proceedings; and (v) a declaration that demonstrates that the Sponsored Party has the financial resources to meet the expected costs to implement the requirements of the Closure Plan, where applicable.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Nauruan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to applications, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (c) conduct due diligence enquiries into Sponsorship Applicants or Sponsored Parties; (d) receive and evaluate Sponsorship Applications; (e) recommend to Cabinet whether Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted or not, and if permitted, on what terms; (f) if approved by Cabinet, prepare and issue Certificates of Sponsorship for successful Sponsorship Applicants; (g) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract; (h) maintain Nauru’s and its Sponsored Parties’ understanding of and compliance with international laws, standards and rules relevant to Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (j) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for Nauru to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (k) require and review relevant reports and information, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (l) with Cabinet approval, establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by Nauru to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities, and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (m) insofar as they are not prescribed by law, negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (n) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of Nauru’s Seabed Mineral Activities including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, technical matters and the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, including from experts outside of the country. (2) The Cabinet may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 22. Content of a sponsorship application. A Sponsorship Application must be made in writing to the Authority and must: (a) provide evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; and (b) include: (i) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) written undertakings by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (A) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (B) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (C) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship by Nauru; (c) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) an indication of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed: (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease, bond or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (f) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from Nauru; (g) a capacity building programme for the training of citizens of Nauru; (h) the application fee required under this Act; (i) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA and international law; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (j) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 23. Qualification criteria. (1) The Authority shall review any Sponsorship Application received, and may recommend to Cabinet, the issue of a Sponsorship Certificate if it is satisfied that: (a) the undertakings required by section 22 have been given; (b) the Qualification Criteria are met; and (c) that the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) will not result in irreparable harm to any community, cultural practice or industry in Nauru; and (ii) would be generally in the public interest, taking into account the potential for capacity-building, local employment and the long-term benefit to Nauru. (2) The Qualification Criteria are that: (a) the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in Nauru; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (A) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (B) cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has paid any applicable fees; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect:; Section 24. (i). the rights of the other legitimate sea users; or (ii) the protection and Environment; and (iii) international peace and security. preservation of the Marine Sponsorship Certificate Decision (1) A decision on whether to issue a Sponsorship Certificate shall be taken by Cabinet, based upon the recommendation from the Authority, and shall be communicated to the Sponsorship Applicant by the Authority in a timely manner. (2) Where a decision is taken under section 24(1) of this Act to deny the Sponsorship Certificate, the Authority will provide the Sponsorship Applicant with a written statement of reasons for the decision, and present the Sponsorship Applicant with a reasonable opportunity to re-submit an amended version of that Sponsorship Application, without requiring another Application fee. (3) Where a decision is taken by Cabinet to issue a Sponsorship Certificate, public notice of the decision will be given by the Authority within 30 days of that decision.; Section 40. Payments by Sponsored Parties. (1) A Sponsorship Applicant must pay to the Authority a non-refundable Sponsorship Application fee of US$15,000 upon the submission of a Sponsorship Application. (2) Subject to subsection (3), the holder of a Sponsorship Certificate must pay to the Authority an annual administration fee of US$20,000: (a) within six months from the date of issue of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (b) every year after that, on the anniversary each of the date of the issue of the Sponsorship Certificate. (3) During the fifth year of the Sponsorship Certificate term, the Authority may review the amount of the administration fee required each year for the remainder of the term of the Sponsorship Certificate, and may reasonably increase the amount where this is required to cover the actual costs to Nauru of administering and supervising the sponsorship. (4) A Sponsored Party holding an ISA contract for Exploitation under Nauru’s sponsorship must pay to the Authority such sums by way of a Seabed Mineral recovery payment as and when it is agreed and specified in a written agreement made under section 27, prior to the commencement of Exploitation by the Sponsored Party. (5) The recovery payment amount in subsection (4) must: (a) take into account the set-up, Exploration and Exploitation costs incurred by the Sponsored Party; and (b) be based on the percentage of the latest market value of the metal content contained in the Seabed Minerals to be extracted by the Sponsored Party through the Seabed Mineral Activities.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 14. Sponsorship Application. (1) A Sponsorship Application, by an applicant for sponsorship by the Republic, shall be made to the Authority in the prescribed form. (2) The application shall be accompanied by the prescribed fee.; Section 17. Qualification Criteria for issuance of Sponsorship Certificate. The Qualification Criteria for a Sponsorship Applicant are as follows: (a) the applicant is an existing body corporate, incorporated and registered in the Republic or a public enterprise under the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (i) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) cover the costs of any potential liability arising from incidents, accidents, pollution, or any other serious harm occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) respond to any incident; (c) has adequate risk management strategies, capability and management systems to meet health and safety and environmental requirements under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) has implemented a system of corporate governance and transparency to support the proper performance of obligations under an ISA Contract, including the effective monitoring and management of Affiliates and Associates; (e) has implemented policies and codes of conduct that prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment or bullying and promote diversity and equality in the workplace; and (f) that each director or officer, its Affiliates and Associates that are involved in the management of the Sponsorship Applicant’s business, engaged or to be engaged in the conduct of all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities and their directors or officers, have not, in any jurisdiction been: (i) found on credible evidence to have breached a term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct seabed mineral activities or similar sea or land-based activity; (ii) convicted of an offence relating to the conduct of seabed mineral activities or other sea or land-based exploration or exploitation activity under any natural resource, health and safety, or environmental laws; or (iii) convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (g) in considering the criteria under paragraph (f), the Authority shall take into account the seriousness and impact of the Sponsorship Applicant’s conduct or that of a director or officer, or relevant Affiliate or Associate, and any mitigating circumstances, including any remedial action taken and the time elapsed since any breach or conviction; and (h) has paid the applicable fee.; Section 40. Assignment of rights and obligations. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a Sponsored Party may assign its rights and obligations under an ISA Contract in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the proposed assignee is neither a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic, nor under the Republic’s Effective Control, a Sponsored Party shall: (a) notify the Authority of the proposed assignment prior to applying to the ISA for consent to the assignment; (b) provide the Authority with an opportunity to respond on the proposed assignment or request consultations within 14 days after notification; and (c) respond to the Authorities response within 7 day of receiving such response. (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2)(a), the Sponsored Party may apply to the ISA for consent to the assignment at any time 30 days after the date of its notification under subsection (2)(a). (4) A Sponsored Party shall not assign its rights and obligations under an ISA contract without the prior approval of the Cabinet. (5) A Sponsorship Certificate may only be issued to an assignee where: (a) the Cabinet has approved the proposed assignment under subsection (4); (b) the Cabinet has approved the proposed assignee to take the assignment of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (c) the assignee is a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or an instrumentality which is under the Effective Control of the Government. (6) The consent and approval under subsections (1) and (2) shall not be unreasonably withheld, where the proposed assignee is eligible under this Act to be issued a Sponsorship Certificate. (7) An application shall be made to the Authority by both the Sponsored Party and proposed assignee in accordance with any prescribed procedure. (8) The Authority for the purpose of making a recommendation to the Cabinet under this Section shall: (a) request all such information from the proposed assignee as would be required of a Sponsorship Applicant under this Act; (b) require an undertaking from the proposed assignee that it will assume all of the obligations and liabilities of the Sponsored Party upon assignment; (c) require the Sponsored Party or proposed assignee to provide any other information that the Authority considers reasonably necessary to assess the application; and (d) require the payment of the prescribed fee. (9) The Cabinet’s approval under this Section may be given with or without conditions, which may include: (a) the execution of a guarantee and indemnity by the assignee pursuant to Section 29(3) of this Act; and (b) the provision of a Security Deposit by the assignee under Section 52 of this Act. (10) An assignment under this Section shall not affect the ongoing obligations or potential liability incurred by the Sponsored Party.; Section 45. Principle of cost recovery for applicable fees. (1) The Authority shall, when determining applicable fees take all reasonable steps to recover as much of the actual and reasonable costs incurred by the Authority in performing its functions under this Act, including the supervision and monitoring of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) All applicable fees shall be approved by the Cabinet on the recommendation of the Authority.; Section 46. Process for annual administration fee. (1) A Sponsored Party shall pay to the Authority an annual administration fee: (a) within 6 months from the date of issue of the Sponsorship Certificate; and (b) every year after that, payable before 31st January of each successive year. (2) On or before 31st January of each successive year the Authority shall prepare an estimate of the annual administration fee for the next annual period based on the principle of cost recovery under Section 50 and provide details of the estimate to the Sponsored Party for its review. (3) Within 14 days of its receipt of the estimate the Sponsored party shall provide its submission following the review of the administration fee to the Authority. (4) Subject to subsection (5), within 14 days of its receipt of any submission from the Sponsored Party the Board shall approve the annual administration fee considering the submission received from the Sponsored Party. (5) The Board may approve any annual administration fee, the sum of which is in excess of 10% of the previous year’s annual administration fee, unless the Sponsored Party is given an opportunity to be heard and make submissions on the proposed increment in excess of 10%. (6) Where the actual and reasonable costs in a particular annual period exceed or are expected to exceed the annual administration fee paid by the Sponsored Party for that year, the Authority shall provide the Sponsored Party details of the excess, which may include unanticipated costs for Approved Experts, and the Sponsored Party shall, in good faith, review and consider payment of the excess amount. (7) On or before 31st January of each successive year, the Authority shall provide to the Sponsored Party with a reconciliation of actual costs incurred during the previous annual period. (8) Where the actual costs in a particular annual period are less than the annual administration fee paid for that annual period, any excess of the administration fee shall be credited to the annual administration fee payable for the next annual period.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 35. Register open to public inspection (1) The register of Titles maintained by the Authority in accordance with section 34 of this Act shall be open to public inspection during business hours of the Authority. (2) If the Authority so determines, sub-section (1) shall not apply to any particular information where the information is commercially sensitive information pertaining to a third party such as exploration data, or where the publication of that particular information would in the Authority‘s view otherwise not be in the public interest such as personal addresses of Title Holder personnel. (3) The Authority may upon application and payment of a prescribed fee issue a certified copy of any Title or other document filed with the Authority for the purpose of maintaining the register of Titles, which will be admissible in evidence in any court.; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 41. Grant of a Prospecting Permit A Prospecting Permit may be granted by the Authority upon satisfactory receipt of a properly made application for a Prospecting Permit in the prescribed form and accompanied by the prescribed fees.; Section 51. Content of an Application for a Licence Applications for a Licence shall contain - (a) evidence as to the matters required under section 52 of this Act; (b) the coordinates of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (c) any feasibility or other studies previously conducted by the Applicant in relation to the potential of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (d) a preliminary assessment of the possible impact on the Environment of the proposed Activities that are the subject of the Licence Application, and a proposal for oceanographic and environmental baseline studies and mitigation strategies for the protection of the Marine Environment and prevention of pollution; (e) a proposed Exploration or Mining work plan, covering the life of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities (including the closure of operations), and including a description of the technology and processes to be used, a time schedule and estimated annual expenditures; (f) a financing plan; (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom and their participation in matters pertaining to the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities to be conducted under Licence, and an employment strategy for local workers; (i) a public engagement and information plan; (j) the Applicant‘s plan for responding to any Incidents; Page 34 2020 Revised Edition (k) the prescribed fees; and (l) any further matters that are prescribed by Regulations.; Section 78. Prerequisite conditions to issue of Sponsorship Certificate A Sponsorship Certificate shall only be issued to a Sponsorship Applicant who – (a) is a body corporate, registered in Tonga; 2020 Revised Edition Page 45 (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities sufficient financial and technical resources and capability to properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (c) has paid any applicable fees under this Act; and (d) has adhered to prescribed Application processes and meets prescribed qualification criteria.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 91. Payments by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties (1) Application fee An Applicant for a Title under this Act shall upon Application pay to the Authority the prescribed fee, which shall be non-recoverable. (2) Sponsorship payments The holder of a Sponsorship Certificate shall pay to the Authority - (a) such sums by way of annual administrative fees for the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of its Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, and (b) where the Sponsorship Certificate pertains to a contract for Mining in the Area, such sums by way of a commercial recovery payment, at such times and in such amounts as may be prescribed, or provided in the Sponsorship Certificate or a Sponsorship agreement made under this Act. (3) Taxes Licensees, and their sub-contractors, advisors, and employees shall pay all applicable customs duties and taxes in accordance with the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Page 52 2020 Revised Edition (4) Seabed Minerals royalties The holder of a Mining Licence shall pay such sums by way of royalties for the extraction of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals and at such times as may be specified under the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Each payment shall be accompanied by details of the Seabed Minerals produced, sold or disposed of, and the details of the payment and how it has been calculated.; Section 104. Transfer of Title (1) No Title granted under this Act can be assigned, transferred, leased, sub-let or mortgaged without the Authority‘s prior written consent (and payment of the prescribed fee), which, in the event of an internal corporate re-organisation by the Title Holder is not to be unreasonably withheld. (2) In considering whether or not to give such consent, the Authority may require the same information from the proposed transferee as would be required of a new Applicant for the same Title under this Act, and an undertaking that the transferee assumes all of the obligations of the transferor, and the Authority may require the transferee to comply with the same processes as are prescribed for an Application for that type of Title. (3) A transfer of Title will only become effective upon entry into the register of Titles maintained by the Authority under section 34 of this Act. 2020 Revised Edition Page 57; Section 123. Regulations and Ministerial Orders The Minister may, with the consent of Cabinet, make Regulations — (a) prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed under this Act; (b) generally for carrying this Act into effect; (c) without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following matters - (i) the gridding, mapping and allocation of blocks, cells and Licence Areas; (ii) classifying particular aspects of work relating to Seabed Minerals as a Major Project under the EIA Act, or absolutely prohibited due to unacceptable anticipated harm to the Marine Environment; (iii) requisite content, format, consultation processes, independent verification, and timeframe for an Environmental Impact Assessment and the establishment of environmental baseline data for Seabed Mineral Activities; (iv) prescribe further rules or processes pertaining to the handling by the Authority of conflicting Applications for the same Title pertaining to the same area; (v) environment management plans, and provision for areas of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf that have features that require a location-specific approach; (vi) prescribing the format, content, timeframe or processes for any Applications, reports or other data or information required under this Act; (vii) matters relating to the processes to be undertaken and the factors to be taken into account by the Authority in deciding whether or not to grant, review, vary, suspend, or revoke a Title; (viii) the terms of and a model version of a Title; (ix) the fiscal regime to be applied to Seabed Mineral Activities; Page 64 2020 Revised Edition (x) the operation of the Seabed Minerals Fund; (xi) provisions for post-Mining monitoring or other requirements relating to the closure of Seabed Mining Activities; (xii) information-handling for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (xiii) the holding of inquiries into accidents or other incidents causing harm to the Environment or human health and safety occurring in the course of any Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; (xiv) Enforcement Orders and other sanctions, and powers connected with the investigation and administration of such Orders and other sanctions; (xv) providing that any prescribed breach of Regulations shall be an offence, and affording any defences available to any such offence; (xvi) the criminal penalty payable for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations, which shall not exceed $500,000; (xvii) a scheme of administrative penalties in lieu of a criminal penalty for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations and the amount of administrative penalties payable, which penalties shall not exceed half of the applicable maximum criminal penalty; (xviii) further matters in relation to Prospecting Permits; (xix) further matters in relation to Exploration and Mining Licences; (xx) the prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (xxi) further matters in relation to Sponsorship Certificate or agreements; (xxii) that a Licensee shall be required to pay a Licence fee, the amount or manner of determining the Licence fee, and the times and manner of payment; or (xxiii) matters in relation to Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 7
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 140. Intérêt de l’humanité; Article 160. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 140. Benefit of mankind; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 171. Funds of the Authority; Article 173. Expenses of the Authority
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.208. Fee.; Section 970.406. Fee payment. Before the Administrator may certify an application, he must find that the applicant has paid the license fee as specified in § 970.208.
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.208. Fee.; Section 971.214. Consolidated license and permit procedures.; Section 971.211. and determining in writing that:.; Section 971.301. Required findings. Before the Administrator may certify an application for a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator must:
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1413. License and permit applications, review, and certification.; Section 1414. License and permit fees.; Section 1423. Records, audits, and public disclosure.; Section 1427. Civil actions.

production_policy_and_economic_effects (44)

Production policies, production authorizations/ceilings, commodity markets, and protection of affected (esp. developing) economies.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 32. Compliance statement. (1) For the purposes of Section 26(s), a Sponsored Party shall, within 120 days after the end of the financial year provide to the Authority a compliance statement in accordance with the requirements of this regulation and the Applicable Guideline. (2) The reportable matters shall be of such matters within each 12-month period, or any period within the 12-month period where sponsorship is granted during the period, ending on 31 December in each year, unless the Authority determines an alternative specified reporting period or frequency. (3) For the purposes of Section 26(s) of the Act, the compliance statement shall contain the information under Schedule 3 and shall relate to the period between the end of the last reporting period and the date of the report. (4) Where sponsorship is terminated under Section 36 of the Act, a Sponsored Party shall submit a final compliance statement within 60 days after the date of termination. (5) Where sponsorship is being assigned pursuant to Section 40 of the Act, the Sponsored Party shall provide to the Authority a compliance report in conjunction with the application for the Minister's consent to the assignment. (6) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the reports in order to be satisfied that: (a) any instances of non-compliance have been appropriately addressed; (b) the cause or suspected cause of the non-compliance has been identified; and (c) the actions taken to mitigate any adverse effects and prevent recurrence of the non-compliance are reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances. (7) Where the Chief Executive Officer is not satisfied with any statements made in the report relating to the matters contemplated by subregulation (6), he or she may: (a) request further information from the Sponsored Party; or (b) require the holder to submit an amended report. (8) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA on any instances of non-compliance and following such consultation may recommend to the Board that appropriate administrative action be taken under Section 36 of the Act and these Regulations, including the issue of a compliance direction under regulation 47. (9) A Sponsored Party who, without reasonable cause contravenes subregulations (1), (4) and (5) is liable to a penalty of $5,000 for each day during which the non-compliance continues.; Section 33. Notifying Reportable Events. (1) A Sponsored Party, or where applicable through its affiliates or associates shall notify a Reportable Event in accordance with this regulation. (2) The notification: (a) shall be given to the Authority as soon as practicable, and in any case within 24 hours after: (i) the first occurrence of the Reportable Event; or (ii) if the Reportable Event is not detected by the Sponsored Party at the time of the first occurrence, the time the Sponsored Party becomes aware of the event; (b) may be made orally or in writing; (c) shall specify: (i) all material facts and circumstances concerning the Reportable Event; (ii) any action taken to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects of the event; and (iii) whether the event and circumstances concerning the event have been reported to the ISA. (3) Nothing in this regulation shall relieve the Sponsored Party of any notification or reporting obligations to the ISA or the Authority under the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) A Sponsored Party that, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulations (1) and (2) commits a strict liability offence and is liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 34. Written report of Reportable Events. (1) A Sponsored Party shall submit a written report of a Reportable Event in accordance with this regulation. (2) The report: (a) shall be submitted to the Authority as soon as practicable, and in any case within 7 days after the first occurrence or detection of the Reportable Event; and (b) shall specify: (i) all material facts and circumstances concerning the event; (ii) any action taken to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects of the event; and (iii) any action taken, or proposed to be taken, to prevent a similar event. (3) To avoid duplication in regulatory reporting, the Sponsored Party may submit a written report provided to the ISA in respect of the same event that is reportable to the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA provided that such report contains the information set out in subregulation (2)(b). (4) Where the Chief Executive Officer is not reasonably satisfied that a report is sufficient to enable the Authority to determine whether the action taken or proposed to be taken is adequate in the circumstances, the Chief Executive Officer may request the Sponsored Party to modify the report. (5) A request under subregulation (4) shall: (a) be in writing; and (b) identify the reasons the Chief Executive Officer is not reasonably satisfied with the report. (6) A Sponsored Party which, without reasonable excuse breaches this regulation commits a strict liability offence and is liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 37. Notifying and responding to incidents. (1) A Sponsored Party shall, on becoming aware of an incident in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities: (a) notify the Authority immediately by telephone, and within 24 hours in writing and provide a summary of the known facts surrounding the incident, including the location and any known or likely effects on the marine environment, human health and safety, marine users or another State’s interest; (b) comply with the requirements of the relevant Rules of the ISA, including to implement immediately, where applicable, the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan; take other necessary and appropriate measures to limit the adverse effects of the incident; (c) (d) undertake promptly, and within any time frame stipulated, any instructions received from the ISA or the Authority; and (e) record the incident in an incidents register in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) On being notified by the Sponsored Party or other person that an incident has occurred, the Chief Executive Officer shall, immediately: (a) notify the Board and the Minister by providing a summary of the facts concerning the incident; (b) consult with the Sponsored Party; and (c) cooperate and consult with the ISA on any recommended action to be taken. (3) A report shall be provided to the Authority within 60 days after the Sponsored Party becomes aware of the occurrence of the incident. (4) The Authority may accept any report provided to the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA relating to an incident reported under subregulation (3). (5) A person who, without reasonable excuse, breaches subregulation (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000. (6) The Authority shall notify the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade if an incident has had, or is reasonably expected to have, substantial effects on persons or things under the jurisdiction of another State.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 151. Politique en matière de production; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 150. Policies relating to activities in the Area; Article 151. Production policies; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 164. The Economic Planning Commission; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term:; Section 970.207. Antitrust information.
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term; Section 971.204. Environmental and use conflict analysis.; Section 971.214. Consolidated license and permit procedures.; Section 971.600. General. The Act contains several provisions which relate to environmental protection. For example, section 105(a)(4) requires that, before the Administrator may issue a commercial recovery permit, he must find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse environmental effect. In addition, each permit issued must contain TCRs which prescribe actions the permittee must take in the conduct of commercial recovery activities to assure protection of the environment (section 109(b)). The Act also provides for modification by the Administrator of any TCR if relevant data and information indicate that modification is required to protect the quality of the environment (section 105(c)(1)(B)). The Administrator also may order an immediate suspension or modification of activities (section 106(c)), or require use of best available technologies (section 109(b)), to prevent a significant adverse environmental effect. Furthermore, each permit issued under the Act must require the permittee to monitor the environmental effects of commercial recovery activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator, and to submit information the Administrator finds necessary and appropriate to assess environmental effects and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse effects (section 114).
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1401. Congressional findings and declaration of purpose.; Section 1403. Definitions.

marine_environmental_protection (478)

Protection and preservation of the marine environment from activities in the Area; the precautionary approach; best environmental practice.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans 1. A Contractor shall maintain:; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 45. Development of environmental Standards and Guidelines; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 48. Environmental Impact Statement; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 52. Performance assessments of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 53. Pollution control A Contractor shall take [all] necessary [and appropriate] measures to protect and preserve the Marine Environment, from harmful effects, in accordance with article 145 of the Convention, including by preventing, reducing and controlling pollution and other hazards, [including underwater noise, light, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine litter, directly or indirectly [resulting arising] from its activities in the Area. This is to be done [in accordance with the Standards], [pursuant to] [its Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, and] all relevant rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority [and Contractors’ Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan] , [and taking into account] Regional Environmental Management Plans, and [the Guidelines].; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 59. Closure Plan; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the noncompliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection. ] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [Alt. 1 objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Alt. 2 Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with [regulation 35 and] any applicable Standards, including:; Annex III bis. Scoping Report A Scoping Report shall include the following:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 9. Extension 9.1 20.] [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: preamble/chapeau; Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 45. Development of environmental Standards and Guidelines; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 48. Environmental Impact Statement; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining [1. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor, as the case may be, from conducting Test Mining before the submission of a Plan of Work for Exploitation.] [1.Alt. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor from conducting Test Mining and Pilot Mining.]; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 52. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 53. Pollution control A Contractor shall take [all][measures] necessary [and appropriate] [measures] to protect and preserve the Marine Environment[, including the coastline], from harmful effects, in accordance with article 145 of the Convention, including by preventing, reducing and controlling pollution and other hazards, [including underwater noise, light, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine litter[Alt. 1, directly or indirectly [resulting arising]] [Alt. 2 that may arise from] from its activities in the Area. This is to be done [in accordance with the Standards], [pursuant to] [its Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, and] all relevant rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority [and Contractors’ Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan or Closure Plan, as appropriate,], [and consistent with] the applicable Regional Environmental Management Plans, and [the Guidelines].; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the non-compliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection.] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with Regulation 35 and any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Annex III bis. Scoping Report A [environmental Impact Assessment]Scoping Report shall include the following:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 9. Extension 9.1 [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation 20.] [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 30. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 34. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 36. Droits des États côtiers; Article 38. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 44. Révision; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le Contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le Contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le Contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le Contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceuxci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第32条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 12. Capacité financière et technique; Article 18. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration Tout demandeur soumet, en vue d’obtenir l’approbation de son plan de travail relatif à l’exploration sous la forme d’un contrat, les informations suivantes : a) La description générale et le calendrier du programme d’exploration proposé, y compris le programme d’activités pour les cinq années à venir, tels que les études à réaliser concernant les facteurs écologiques, techniques, économiques et autres facteurs appropriés à prendre en compte pour l’exploration;; Article 21. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 28. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 30. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 31. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 32. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 33. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 34. Droits des États côtiers; Article 36. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 42. Révision; Section III. Informations financières et techniquesa; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au contractant, à ses employés, agents et sous-traitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168 2) de la Convention. 16.5 Le contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 18. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке Каждый заявитель в целях утверждения плана работы по разведке в форме контракта представляет следующую информацию: a) общее описание и график предлагаемой программы разведки, включая программу деятельности на ближайший пятилетний период, как то запланированные исследования в отношении экологических, технических, экономических и прочих соответствующих факторов, которые должны учитываться при разведке;; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 32. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 34. Права прибрежных государств; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的考虑; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第12条财政和技术能力; 第18条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料为了使合同形式的勘探工作计划获得核准，每一申请者应提交下列资料：; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第28条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第30条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第32条环境基线和监测; 第33条紧急命令; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第36条数据和资料的机密性; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 18. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration Each applicant shall submit, with a view to receiving approval of the plan of work for exploration in the form of a contract, the following information:; Regulation 31. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 32. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 34. Rights of coastal States; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 23; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 2. Prospection; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 4. Examen des notifications; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 7. Confidentialité des données et informations contenues dans le rapport annuel; Article 13. Capacité financière et technique; Article 20. Données et informations à fournir pour l’approbation du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 30. Examen périodique de l’exécution du plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 32. Responsabilité La responsabilité du contractant et celle de l’Autorité sont régies par la Convention. Le contractant demeure responsable de tout dommage résultant d’actes illicites commis dans la conduite de ses opérations, en particulier de tout dommage au milieu marin, après l’achèvement de la phase d’exploration.; Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin; Article 34. Profils écologiques témoins et surveillance du milieu marin; Article 35. Ordres en cas d’urgence; Article 36. Droits des États côtiers; Article 38. Confidentialité des données et informations; Article 44. Révision; Section III. Informations financières et techniques; Section IV. Plan de travail relatif à l’exploration; Article 5. Surveillance de l’environnement 5.1 Le Contractant prend les mesures nécessaires pour prévenir, réduire et maîtriser la pollution du milieu marin et les autres dangers découlant pour ce milieu de ses activités dans la Zone en appliquant le principe de précaution ainsi que les meilleures pratiques écologiques. 5.2 Avant de commencer les activités d’exploration, le Contractant soumet à l’Autorité : a) Une étude d’impact indiquant les effets potentiels des activités proposées sur le milieu marin;; Article 6. Plans et interventions d’urgence 6.1 Avant d’entamer son programme d’activités en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet au Secrétaire général un plan d’urgence, qui permet de faire face efficacement aux incidents pouvant résulter des activités qu’il entend mener dans la zone d’exploration et qui sont susceptibles de causer ou de menacer de causer un dommage grave au milieu marin. Ledit plan d’urgence établit des procédures spéciales et prévoit les équipements appropriés pour faire face à de tels incidents, et comprend en particulier des dispositions assurant que : a) L’alerte générale soit immédiatement donnée dans le secteur d’activités; b) Le Secrétaire général soit immédiatement avisé; c) Les navires qui seraient sur le point d’entrer dans le voisinage immédiat soient avertis;; Article 13. Engagements 13.1 Le Contractant procède à l’exploration conformément aux termes du présent contrat, au Règlement, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux autres règles de droit international qui ne sont pas incompatibles avec la Convention. 13.2 Le Contractant s’engage à : a) Accepter les clauses du présent contrat comme exécutoires et à les respecter;; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 16. Responsabilité 16.1 Le Contractant est responsable du dommage effectif, y compris les dommages causés au milieu marin, imputable à ses actes ou omissions illicites et à ceux de ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, y compris le coût des mesures raisonnables prises pour prévenir ou limiter les dommages au milieu marin, compte tenu le cas échéant des actes ou omissions de l’Autorité ayant contribué au dommage. 16.2 Le Contractant met l’Autorité, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite du Contractant ou de ses employés, agents et soustraitants et de toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat. 16.3 L’Autorité est responsable du dommage effectif causé au Contractant par les actes illicites qu’elle commet dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention, compte tenu de la part de responsabilité imputable au Contractant, à ses employés, agents et soustraitants et toutes personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci, dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat, à raison de leurs actes ou omissions. 16.4 L’Autorité met le Contractant, ses employés, sous-traitants et agents et toutes autres personnes travaillant ou agissant pour le compte de ceux-ci dans la conduite des opérations effectuées en vertu du présent contrat hors de cause en cas de réclamations ou actions en responsabilité de tiers fondées sur un acte ou une omission illicite commis par l’Autorité dans l’exercice de ses pouvoirs et fonctions dans le cadre du présent contrat, y compris les violations de l’article 168, paragraphe 2, de la Convention. 16.5 Le Contractant souscrit auprès de compagnies d’assurance de renommée internationale les polices d’assurance appropriées, conformément à la pratique internationale généralement acceptée en matières maritimes.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 2. Поиск; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Правило 36. Права прибрежных государств; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第1条用语和范围; 第2条探矿; 第3条探矿通知; 第4条对通知的审理; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第13条财政和技术能力; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第32条责任承包者和管理局应按照《公约》承担责任。在勘探阶段结束后，承包者应继续对其在作业过程中的不当行为所造成的任何损害，特别是对海洋环境造成的损害承担责任。; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 2. Prospecting; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 15; Paragraph 85; Paragraph 86; Paragraph 87; Paragraph 88; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 113; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 127; Paragraph 128; Paragraph 129; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 132; Paragraph 133; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 159; Paragraph 161; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 179; Paragraph 194; Paragraph 231; Paragraph 232; Paragraph 236; Paragraph 240; Paragraph 241; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 85; Paragraph 86; Paragraph 87; Paragraph 88; Paragraph 111; Paragraph 113; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 126; Paragraph 127; Paragraph 128; Paragraph 129; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 131; Paragraph 132; Paragraph 133; Paragraph 134; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 159; Paragraph 161; Paragraph 194; Paragraph 232; Paragraph 236; Paragraph 240; Paragraph 241; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 5
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 3. Definitions. (1) In these Regulations: ‘Act’ means the Nauru Seabed Authority Act of 2024; ‘Applicable Guideline’ means a guideline issued by the Authority under regulation 55 or a guideline issued by the ISA, as the context requires; ‘Applicable Standard’ means a standard approved by the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, or a standard approved by the Minister under regulation 55 as the context requires; ‘Authorised Representative’ means the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority and any duly authorised officer performing functions of the Authority under the Act; ‘Best Available Techniques’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Environmental Practices’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Available Scientific Information’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Board’ means the Board of Directors of the Authority; ‘Closure Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Continual Improvement’ means a process of enhancing, on an ongoing basis, the measures in order to achieve improvements in overall health, safety and environmental performance consistent with the ISA’s and Sponsored Party’s health, safety and environmental policies and objectives; ‘Control Measure’ means a system, an item of equipment, a person or a procedure, that is used as a basis for managing the health, safety and environmental impacts and risks of an activity; ‘Early Warning Indicator Criteria’ means criteria used to give an early warning that an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome may be breached or not met; ‘Environmental Performance’ means the performance of a Sponsored Party in relation to the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental; Section 7. (ii) a statement that the draft ISA application has been prepared in. accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (iii) a document setting out the framework of the Management System, including details of the standard operating procedures to monitor and track compliance with the Act, these Regulations, and the relevant Rules of the ISA, including the primary procedures to control the risk of significant accidents and hazards; (iv) in the case of proposed exploitation, a statement demonstrating that the Seabed Mineral Activities will take place in accordance with sound commercial principles; (v) a summary of the key issues arising from the Environmental Impact Assessment, including the evaluation of the Environmental Risks and Environmental Impacts and the measures to manage, limit or remedy such risks and impacts of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment; (vi) a summary of where applicable, the measurement criteria to be adopted to measure the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes and how these will be monitored, achieved and reported, including the use of Early Warning Indicator Criteria; (vii) a summary of the Control Measures that will be used to reduce the impacts and risks of the Seabed Mineral Activities to human health and safety and the marine environment to as low as reasonably practicable; (viii) a summary of any matter in the draft ISA application where the applicant considers there is a significant lack of information or a significant degree of uncertainty, together with a summary of its likely impact on any major assumptions made and how the applicant intends to address such lack of data or information or uncertainty through any further investigations, studies or tests; (ix) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply the precautionary approach and the extent to which the precautionary approach is integrated into the applicant’s risk assessment and management processes; (x) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply the ecosystem-based management approach; (xi) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply Best Environmental Practices and Best Available Techniques; and; Section 26. Variation of terms and conditions of sponsorship. (1) Pursuant to Section 25(3) of the Act, the Authority or the Sponsored Party may notify the other at any time to request a variation of a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement where a party considers that the variation is necessary: (a) to ensure consistency with: (i) the Republic’s international legal obligations; (ii) the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (iii) a modified plan of work; (b) to accommodate new or previously unforeseen significant health, safety or Environmental Risks or Environmental Impacts that have been identified in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) to take account of changes in Good Industry Practice, Best Environmental Practices, or Best Available Techniques; or (d) to reflect any change in circumstances or assumptions where information shows that the variation of any terms or conditions is appropriate to deal with such change. (2) A notice under subregulation (1) shall identify the conditions to be reviewed, give reasons for the review and may propose new conditions. (3) The parties shall consult on any variation to the terms and conditions of sponsorship within 30 days following the date of receipt of a notice and work together to amend the Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Prior to making any recommendations to the Minister, the Authority may consult with the ISA or an approved expert on the appropriateness of the variation of any terms or conditions. (5) The Authority shall make recommendations to the Minister for any proposed variation to any terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement for the responsible Minister’s consent and the Cabinet’s approval.; Section 55. Standards and guideline documents. (1) The Minister may, based on the recommendations of the Authority, approve standards relating to: (a) the protection of the marine environment, including environmental assessment, management and monitoring of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) the protection of the health and safety and rights of persons engaged directly in exploration or exploitation operations. (2) Standards approved under subregulation (1) shall be consistent with or supplement existing international law, including the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Minister may approve standards more stringent than those contained in the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) Standards are legally binding on a Sponsored Party. (5) The Authority may also, from time to time, issue guidelines of a technical or administrative nature to help support the implementation of the Act, these Regulations, the standards and the terms and conditions under a Sponsorship Agreement. (6) Prior to issuing a standard or guideline, the Authority shall: (a) notify persons, including a Sponsored Party who are likely to be affected by the standard or guideline; (b) provide those persons a reasonable opportunity to comment on the content of the proposed standard or guideline; (c) consult with approved experts on the content of the proposed standard or guideline depending on the technical content of the document; and (d) consider the relevant Rules of the ISA, including Applicable Standards, Applicable Guidelines or recommendations issued by the ISA or other competent organisations as representing internationally agreed standards and recommended practices and procedures.; Section 60. Information disclosure. (1) Subject to regulation 59, for the purposes of Section 33(2)(b) of the Act, the Authority may disclose information: (a) to protect the marine environment, other marine users or health and safety, including in connection with an incident; or (b) where it is necessary for the formulation by the Authority of policies, regulations, guidelines, and procedures concerning the protection of the marine environment and of human health and safety. (2) Any person that receives confidential information provided under the Act or these Regulations shall not disclose the information to any other person. (3) Any person, including an applicant or Sponsored Party submitting information to the Authority may specify that information is confidential information under the Act and may not be publicly disclosed and provide the Authority with the details of the basis for such a specification. (4) Where any information submitted to the Authority is specified as confidential information, the Chief Executive Officer shall review the basis for the specification, taking into consideration any Applicable Guideline. (5) Where the Chief Executive Officer objects to a specification of information as confidential, the Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days after receiving the information, consult with the person that submitted the information on: (a) the nature of the information; and (b) whether the information constitutes confidential information pursuant to the Act, taking into consideration any Applicable Guideline.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Nauruan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to applications, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (c) conduct due diligence enquiries into Sponsorship Applicants or Sponsored Parties; (d) receive and evaluate Sponsorship Applications; (e) recommend to Cabinet whether Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted or not, and if permitted, on what terms; (f) if approved by Cabinet, prepare and issue Certificates of Sponsorship for successful Sponsorship Applicants; (g) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract; (h) maintain Nauru’s and its Sponsored Parties’ understanding of and compliance with international laws, standards and rules relevant to Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (j) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for Nauru to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (k) require and review relevant reports and information, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (l) with Cabinet approval, establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by Nauru to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities, and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (m) insofar as they are not prescribed by law, negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (n) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of Nauru’s Seabed Mineral Activities including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, technical matters and the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, including from experts outside of the country. (2) The Cabinet may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.; Section 30. State responsibilities. Where Nauru is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, Nauru via the Authority will: (a) seek to ensure that its conduct in relation to the ISA, the Area and Seabed Mineral Activities adheres to the requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (b) take all appropriate means to exercise its effective control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the State, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (c) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (d) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (e) promote the application of the Precautionary Principle and best environmental practice.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 17. Qualification Criteria for issuance of Sponsorship Certificate. The Qualification Criteria for a Sponsorship Applicant are as follows: (a) the applicant is an existing body corporate, incorporated and registered in the Republic or a public enterprise under the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (i) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) cover the costs of any potential liability arising from incidents, accidents, pollution, or any other serious harm occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) respond to any incident; (c) has adequate risk management strategies, capability and management systems to meet health and safety and environmental requirements under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) has implemented a system of corporate governance and transparency to support the proper performance of obligations under an ISA Contract, including the effective monitoring and management of Affiliates and Associates; (e) has implemented policies and codes of conduct that prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment or bullying and promote diversity and equality in the workplace; and (f) that each director or officer, its Affiliates and Associates that are involved in the management of the Sponsorship Applicant’s business, engaged or to be engaged in the conduct of all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities and their directors or officers, have not, in any jurisdiction been: (i) found on credible evidence to have breached a term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct seabed mineral activities or similar sea or land-based activity; (ii) convicted of an offence relating to the conduct of seabed mineral activities or other sea or land-based exploration or exploitation activity under any natural resource, health and safety, or environmental laws; or (iii) convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (g) in considering the criteria under paragraph (f), the Authority shall take into account the seriousness and impact of the Sponsorship Applicant’s conduct or that of a director or officer, or relevant Affiliate or Associate, and any mitigating circumstances, including any remedial action taken and the time elapsed since any breach or conviction; and (h) has paid the applicable fee.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 30. Responsibilities of Nauru as a Sponsoring State. Where the Republic is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a corresponding ISA Contract to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, the Government or through the Authority shall: (a) take all appropriate means to exercise its Effective Control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the Republic, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (c) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (d) promote the application of the precautionary approach and implementation of best environmental practices and best available techniques in cooperation with the ISA and the Sponsored Party; (e) comply with its due diligence obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (f) within its competence and capabilities and in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA, adopt a plan to implement and modify measures for the effective protection of the Marine Environment which may arise from Seabed Mineral Activities, in cooperation with the ISA or on the advice of Approved Experts; (g) cooperate with the ISA to provide such data and information as is reasonably necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) assist the ISA in carrying out supervision, monitoring, audits and inspections of the Sponsored Party and cooperate with coastal States and flag States where relevant, with the aim to ensure the Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (i) assist the Sponsored Party in any interaction with the ISA relating to the administration of the ISA Contract, including clarification of any requirements under the Rules of the ISA; (j) provide the Sponsored Party with copies of any information or notices received by the Authority from the ISA, States Parties, other regulatory bodies or persons relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (k) accord the Sponsored Party fair and equitable treatment, and provide a stable and predictable legal framework and make decisions consistently and transparently; (l) keep the Sponsored Party informed of any amendments to any written law and the regulatory regime that may affect a Sponsored Party or their Seabed Mineral Activities and provide a Sponsored Party sufficient time to ensure that they are able to comply with those changes; (m) not nationalise or expropriate a Sponsored Party’s investment or take measures having effect equivalent to nationalisation or expropriation except for on a non-discriminatory basis and against prompt adequate and effective compensation, such compensation shall: (i) amount to the genuine value of the Sponsored Party’s investment immediately before the expropriation or before the impending expropriation becomes public knowledge whichever is the earlier; (ii) include interest at a normal commercial rate until the date of payment; (iii) be made without delay; (iv) be effectively realisable; and (v) be freely transferable; (n) accord all Sponsored Parties treatment no less favourable that the treatment it accords, in like situations, to other investors; (o) accord Sponsored Parties full security and protection; and (p) guarantee the conversion and transfer overseas of Sponsored Parties’ earnings and savings or earnings of expatriate personnel, their affiliates and subcontractors, resulting from the Seabed Minerals Activities.; Section 37. Directions upon termination of Sponsorship Certificate. (1) The Authority may give directions to the Sponsored Party, where the Sponsorship Certificate is terminated under Section 36, including a direction that: (a) the Sponsored Party continues to comply with all or any of its obligations under this Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement; (b) copies of any relevant records kept by the Sponsored Party be delivered to the Authority or any other person; or (c) specified measures be undertaken to effectively prevent, contain or minimise any harmful effects to the marine environment. (2) A direction under subsection (1)(c) may impose restrictions on the Seabed Mineral Activities including a requirement to cease all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities and to comply with any instructions of the Authority or the ISA that relate to any restriction or to ceasing the activities. (3) Where the Authority is satisfied that a Sponsored Party has failed without reasonable excuse to comply with a direction given under subsection (1), the Authority may impose a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 6. Operation of this Act In order to achieve its objects, this Act inter alia – (a) creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Authority to license, monitor and manage the Kingdom‘s involvement with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) establishes a system for the application for, and grant of Titles under which Title Holders will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (c) creates a register of Titles and provides for the registration of dealings and interests in Titles; (d) creates offences in respect of activities carried out in breach of the provisions of this Act; (e) provides for the protection of the Marine Environment during the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities, including through the application of the provisions of the EIA Act relating to Environmental Impact Assessment and project permitting; (f) provides for the Kingdom to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area.; Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition; Section 12. Functions of the Authority (1) To ensure the implementation of this Act, the Authority has the following functions, to - 2020 Revised Edition Page 15 (a) develop policies for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Tongan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) manage the designation and allocation of Titles, and maintain records of Titles granted and the blocks or cells of seabed to which they relate; (c) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to Applications, Titles, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (d) conduct due diligence enquiry into Applicant Prospectors, Licensees or Sponsored Parties; (e) receive and evaluate Applications to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities under the Kingdom‘s control or sponsorship; (f) review or obtain a review of Environmental Impact Assessments for Seabed Mineral Activities required under this Act and the EIA Act; (g) recommend to Cabinet whether or not Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted, and on what terms; (h) prepare Prospecting Permits, Licences and Sponsorship Certificates; (i) receive and assess reporting documents from Title Holders; (j) monitor the performance and impact of Seabed Mineral Activities, and compliance by Title Holders with the terms of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act, and the relevant Title; (k) monitor the continuing validity of the terms of a Title; (l) effect the amendment of the terms of a Title where expedient, and in accordance with this Act; (m) enforce sanctions for non-compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or a Title; (n) require and review relevant reports and information from Title Holders, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) share information and consult about Seabed Mineral Activities with the general public as appropriate; (p) publish and submit to Parliament an annual report of Seabed Mineral Activities not later than ninety days after the end of each calendar year; (q) provide technical assistance to other Government agencies of the Kingdom in all matters relevant to Seabed Minerals; (r) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisation in accordance with the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea to facilitate the lawful conduct of Seabed Minerals Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment; (s) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, Page 16 2020 Revised Edition scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (2) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-section (1)(s) or (t), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as the Minister may determine, in consultation with the Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (3) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority or Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act.; Section 20. Incidents and Inquiries (1) Where an Incident occurs in respect of a Seabed Mineral Activity under the Sponsorship of the Kingdom, the Sponsored Party shall inform the ISA and copy all information provided to the ISA to the Authority. For the purposes of this section an Incident shall (without limitation) be deemed to have occurred when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, or damaged; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by a medical practitioner not affiliated with the Title Holder, Seabed 2020 Revised Edition Page 19 Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law. (2) A Title Holder involved in an Incident shall report it to the Authority in accordance with section 39 of this Act, and shall respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the Authority‘s instructions, or the ISA‘s instructions where relevant. (3) The Authority may hold, or may commission, inquiries into Incidents. (4) The Authority shall provide such administrative assistance to a Title Holder as is expedient to facilitate the Title Holder‘s efficient response to an Incident.; Section 38. Adherence to laws and rules (1) Any person engaging in Seabed Mineral Activities under a Title is required, inter alia, to - (a) adhere to the provisions in each case in force from time to time; of - (i) the Marine Pollution Prevention Act 2002; (ii) the EIA Act and any regulations made under it, including but not limited to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2010; (iii) the Environment Management Act 2010; (iv) this Act, and Regulations made under this Act; (v) the terms and conditions of the Title permitting the Seabed Mineral Activities; (vi) any environmental conditions arising from the Environmental Impact Assessment process. (2) Any Sponsored Party engaging in Seabed Mineral Activities is required to adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA, this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and the terms of any Sponsorship Certificate issued under Part 7 of this Act.; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 51. Content of an Application for a Licence Applications for a Licence shall contain - (a) evidence as to the matters required under section 52 of this Act; (b) the coordinates of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (c) any feasibility or other studies previously conducted by the Applicant in relation to the potential of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (d) a preliminary assessment of the possible impact on the Environment of the proposed Activities that are the subject of the Licence Application, and a proposal for oceanographic and environmental baseline studies and mitigation strategies for the protection of the Marine Environment and prevention of pollution; (e) a proposed Exploration or Mining work plan, covering the life of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities (including the closure of operations), and including a description of the technology and processes to be used, a time schedule and estimated annual expenditures; (f) a financing plan; (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom and their participation in matters pertaining to the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities to be conducted under Licence, and an employment strategy for local workers; (i) a public engagement and information plan; (j) the Applicant‘s plan for responding to any Incidents; Page 34 2020 Revised Edition (k) the prescribed fees; and (l) any further matters that are prescribed by Regulations.; Section 73. Variation, suspension, or revocation of a Licence (1) The Authority may vary, suspend, or revoke any Exploration Licence or Mining Licence under this section— (a) where any of the qualification criteria prescribed under regulations ceases to be met by the Licensee in a material particular; (b) if a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (b) the Marine Environment; (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; or (iii) avoid any situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international or domestic peace and security; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Licensee; (e) in order to secure or reasonably to promote compliance by the Licensee with the Licensee‘s obligations and undertakings under this Act, the Regulations and the Licence; (f) if the Licensee has failed to comply with a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to it; (g) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Licensee, or upon the Licensee ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (h) upon consultation with the Licensee, where the Licensee is prevented for a continuous period exceeding two years from undertaking the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities under the Licence despite taking all reasonable measures to do so, because of an event outside of the Licensee‘s control; Page 42 2020 Revised Edition (i) where no material efforts have been made by the Licensee to undertake the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding two years; (j) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Licensee of - (i) a material undertaking or term or condition of the Licence; (ii) the provisions of this Act or Regulations made under this Act or other laws of the Kingdom; (iii) conditions imposed under the EIA Act; or (iv) requirement of an Order made under this Act, and such breach either cannot be remedied or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice by the Authority; (k) where the relevant Seabed Mineral Activities in the view of Cabinet constitute an unacceptable risk to the Kingdom or are clearly no longer in the interests of the Kingdom due to changes in the circumstances pertaining to the Activities including (without limitation) changes to - (i) the market for Seabed Minerals; (ii) best environmental practice pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; or (iii) the state of technology utilised for Seabed Mineral Activities, as well as the capacity of the Licensee to adapt to the changes in circumstances; (l) where any payment owing under section 75 or any part of this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; or (m) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s prior approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section the Authority, shall unless the decision is made at the Licensee‘s request and on the exact terms of the Licensee‘s request, give to the Licensee at least ninety days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of that proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice or a copy of the notice has been given, and who objects to it, to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe. (3) If the Authority has suspended a Licence, it may by notice require the Licensee to resume its activities and comply with the terms and conditions of the Licence, not later than 90 days after such notice. (4) In lieu of variation, suspension or revocation under sub-sections (1)(a), (b), (c), (e), (f), (i), (j), and (l), the Authority may take any of the administrative 2020 Revised Edition Page 43 actions provided for in section 27 of this Act, or impose upon the Licensee monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $1,000,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm. (5) The Authority shall not execute a decision involving monetary penalties under sub-section (4) until the Licensee has been accorded a reasonable opportunity to exhaust the judicial remedies available to it under the laws of the Kingdom. (6) In the event of termination or expiration of a Licence, the Licensee shall comply with the Regulations and shall remove all installations, plant, equipment and materials in the Licensed Area and shall make the Licensed Area and its surroundings safe so as not to constitute a danger to persons, shipping or to the Marine Environment. (7) Upon effecting a variation of a Licence the Authority shall- (a) prepare an instrument of variation signed by the Minister and the designated representative of the Licensee; (b) register the variation to that Licence in the register of Titles, maintained by the Authority under section 34 of this Act; (c) issue to the Licensee a copy of that instrument of variation; and (d) publish notice of the variation in the Gazette.; Section 85. Crown Responsibilities Where the Kingdom is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, the Kingdom will, via the Authority- (a) take all actions necessary to give effect to the Kingdom‘s Sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communications with, and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to, the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (b) ensure that its conduct in relation to the ISA, the Area and Seabed Mineral Activities adheres to the requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (c) take all appropriate means to exercise its effective control over Sponsored Parties or, seeking to ensure that their Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Rules of the ISA and other requirements and standards established by general principles of international law; (d) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate, or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under 2020 Revised Edition Page 49 this Act or Regulations to be made under this Act except insofar as these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; and (e) promote the application of the Precautionary Approach.; Section 93. Security Deposit (1) The Authority may before granting a Title require an Applicant for a Title to deposit security as a guarantee of performance of the obligations attaching to the Title. (2) The Authority shall, with the consent of Cabinet, determine the form and the amount or value of the security. (3) The terms and conditions under which the security is held will be set out in the Title. (4) The security may be used by the Authority to take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Title Holder fails to fulfil, or to rectify any damage of loss caused as a result of such failure, including for clean-up or compensation costs in respect of any damage caused by pollution or other incident occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 142. Droits et intérêts légitimes des États côtiers; Article 145. Protection du milieu marin; Article 147. Compatibilité des activités menées dans la zone et des; Article 155. Conférence de révision; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 165. La commission juridique et technique
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 142. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States; Article 145. Protection of the marine environment; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.700. General. Congress, in authorizing the exploration for hard mineral resources under the Act, also enacted provisions relating to the protection of the marine environment from the effects of exploration activities. For example, before the Administrator may issue a license, pursuant to section 105(a)(4) of the Act he must find that the exploration proposed in an application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse effect on the quality of the environment. Also, the Act requires in section 109(b) that each license issued by the Administrator must contain such terms, conditions and restrictions which prescribe the actions the licensee must take in the conduct of exploration activities to assure protection of the environment. Furthermore, the Act in section 105(c)(1)(B) provides for the modification by the Administrator of any term, condition or restriction if relevant data and other information indicates that modification is required to protect the quality of the environment. In addition, section 114 of the Act specifies that each license issued under the Act must require the licensee to monitor the environmental effects of the exploration activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator, and to submit such information as the Administrator finds to be necessary and appropriate to assess environmental impacts and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse environmental effects.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1401. Congressional findings and declaration of purpose.

environmental_assessment_and_monitoring (367)

Environmental impact assessment, monitoring programmes, and environmental management/regional plans.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 1. Use of terms, [phrases] and scope 1. Terms used in the Convention shall have the same meaning in these Regulations.; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application 1. The Secretary-General shall, within 7 Days after determining that an application for the approval of a Plan of Work is ready to progress pursuant to regulation 10, [taking into account the confidentiality of the data, place the Environmental Plans and all non confidential parts of Test Mining Report, if applicable submitted, including any supporting material on the Authority’s website for a period of consideration of an application by the Authority, and]consult with all States and Stakeholders in accordance with regulation 93ter on the application[, Environmental Plans and the non-confidential parts of all other documents accompanying the application pursuant to regulation 7]. 2. The Applicant shall consider the comments provided pursuant to paragraph 1 when fulfilling the requirement at regulation 93ter, paragraph 9. The Applicant shall submit any revised documentation and the written response to consultation as required by regulation 93ter, paragraph 9 to the Secretary-General [Alt. 1 within a period of 60 Days following the close of the comment period or such longer period as determined by the Secretary-General following a request by the Applicant. The Secretary-General may extend this time period [for a further 30 Days], upon a reasonable request by the Applicant to revise the plans or responses. Notice of the extension of the period shall be posted on the Authority’s website] [Alt. 2 in a timely manner].; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 26. Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee/Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Section 3. Monitoring; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30 bis. Human health and safety management system; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans [1. The Council may request the Commission to prepare a Regional Environmental Management Plan for the regional areas where activities in the Area are likely to take place, for consideration and adoption by the Council.]; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Section 2. The Environmental Impact Assessment Process; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 47. Environmental Impact Assessment; Regulation 47 bis. Scoping; Regulation 48. Environmental Impact Statement; Regulation 48 bis. [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining; Section 3. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 50 bis. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 50 ter Environmental Management System; Regulation 51. Compliance with the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 52. Performance assessments of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 53. Pollution control A Contractor shall take [all] necessary [and appropriate] measures to protect and preserve the Marine Environment, from harmful effects, in accordance with article 145 of the Convention, including by preventing, reducing and controlling pollution and other hazards, [including underwater noise, light, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine litter, directly or indirectly [resulting arising] from its activities in the Area. This is to be done [in accordance with the Standards], [pursuant to] [its Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, and] all relevant rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority [and Contractors’ Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan] , [and taking into account] Regional Environmental Management Plans, and [the Guidelines].; Regulation 53 bis. Mining Discharges; Regulation 57. Modification of a Plan of Work by a Contractor; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 59. Closure Plan; Regulation 60. Final Closure Plan: Cessation of [Commercial] Production; Regulation 61. [Implementation and Monitoring of the Final Closure Plan] 1. The purpose of Closure monitoring is [to]:; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 92 bis. Publication of environmental data and information The Secretary General shall annually publish all environmental data and information relating to a Contract Area [including]/[as well as] environmental data and information obtained [adjacent to] the Contract Area], but in connection with the activities in the Contract Area [and]/[or] as part of the Regional Environmental Management Plan] whether received before, during or after application for a Plan of Work, or during the term of the Exploitation Contract. The data and information, including any revisions to that data or information, on a central data repository that is publicly available via the Authority’s website [as soon as practicable]/[according to the timeline proposed in the applicable standard], and in accordance with the Rules, regulations and Procedures of the Authority, applicable Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. Any new environmental data and information shall be published on the central data repository at regular intervals defined in the applicable Standard. Alt. The Secretary General shall ensure that all environmental data and information outside the Contract Area, but in connection with the activities within the Contract Area, are published on a central data repository that is publicly accessible via the Autho rity’s website. This shall include environmental data and information collected before, during, and after the submission of a Plan of Work during the term of the Exploitation Contract and throughout the post closure monitoring period. New or revised enviro nmental data or information shall be published within 30 Days of their receipt by the Authority or in accordance with defined intervals set out in the applicable standard and taking account into the Guidelines. Publications shall be carried out in accordance with the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and relevant data transparency requirements.; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the noncompliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection. ] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities] 1. Inspectors shall:; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [Alt. 1 objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Alt. 2 Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with [regulation 35 and] any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Annex II. Mining Workplan A Mining Workplan, based on the results of Exploration (at least equivalent to the data and information to be provided pursuant to section 11.2 of the standard clauses for Exploration Contracts), should cover the following subject matters:; Annex III. Financing Plan A Financing Plan should include [supported by written [evidence]:; Annex III bis. Scoping Report A Scoping Report shall include the following:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VI. Health and Safety Plan and Maritime Security Plan Note: several important provisions of this Annex have currently been placed in the Suspense document and will be incorporated into Standards and Guidelines at a later stage. A Health and Safety Plan 1. The Health and Safety Plan prepared under these Regulations and this Annex must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of s uch renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex X bis. Design Criteria for Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones Applicants must establish suitable and effective Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones in order to monitor the Environmental Impacts of their activities. The following parameters shall apply in the designation of Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones. 1. Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones must be situated within the Contract Area (and the Contract Area may need to be selected around the need for appropriate Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones, especially where multiple or large reference zones are required); Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 1. Use of terms, [phrases] and scope; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 8. Area covered by an application; Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18. Rights and exclusivity under an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 26 Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee / Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 29 bis. Procedure for suspension or reduction in Exploitation activities; Section 3. Monitoring; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 29 quin. Risk reduction principles; Regulation 30 bis. Human health and safety management system; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Section 2. The Environmental Impact Assessment Process; Regulation 46. [The] Impact Assessment [Process]; Regulation 47. Environmental Impact Assessment; Regulation 47 bis. Scoping; Regulation 48. Environmental Impact Statement; Regulation 48 bis [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining [1. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor, as the case may be, from conducting Test Mining before the submission of a Plan of Work for Exploitation.] [1.Alt. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor from conducting Test Mining and Pilot Mining.]; Section 3. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 51. Closure Plan; Regulation 51 bis. Implementation and Monitoring of the Closure Plan; Regulation 52. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 53. Pollution control A Contractor shall take [all][measures] necessary [and appropriate] [measures] to protect and preserve the Marine Environment[, including the coastline], from harmful effects, in accordance with article 145 of the Convention, including by preventing, reducing and controlling pollution and other hazards, [including underwater noise, light, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine litter[Alt. 1, directly or indirectly [resulting arising]] [Alt. 2 that may arise from] from its activities in the Area. This is to be done [in accordance with the Standards], [pursuant to] [its Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, and] all relevant rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority [and Contractors’ Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan or Closure Plan, as appropriate,], [and consistent with] the applicable Regional Environmental Management Plans, and [the Guidelines].; Regulation 53 bis. Mining Discharges; Regulation 57. Modification of a Plan of Work; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Regulation 81. Review of System of Payments; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 92 bis. Publication of environmental data and information The Secretary General shall annually publish all environmental data and information relating to a Contract Area [including]/[as well as environmental data and information obtained [adjacent to][] the Contract Area], but in connection with the activities in the Contract Area [and/or as part of the Regional Environmental Management Plan] whether received before, during or after application for a Plan of Work, or during the term of the Exploitation Contract. The data and information, including any revisions to that data or information, on a central data repository that is publicly available via the Authority’s website [as soon as practicable]/[according to the timeline proposed in the applicable standard], and in accordance with the Rules, regulations and Procedures of the Authority, applicable Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. Any new environmental data and information shall be published on the central data repository at regular intervals defined in the applicable Standard. Alt. The Secretary General shall ensure that all environmental data and information outside the Contract Area, but in connection with the activities within the Contract Area, are published on a central data repository that is publicly accessible via the Authority’s website. This shall include environmental data and information collected before, during, and after the submission of a Plan of Work during the term of the Exploitation Contract and throughout the post closure monitoring period. New or revised environmental data or information shall be published within 30 Days of their receipt by the Authority or in accordance with defined intervals set out in the applicable standard and taking account into the Guidelines. Publications shall be carried out in accordance with the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and relevant data transparency requirements.; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the non-compliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection.] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities]; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with Regulation 35 and any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Annex II. Mining Workplan A Mining Workplan, based on the results of Exploration (at least equivalent to the data and information to be provided pursuant to section 11.2 of the standard clauses for Exploration Contracts), should cover the following subject matters:; Annex III. Financing Plan A Financing Plan should include supported by written evidence:; Annex III bis. Scoping Report A [environmental Impact Assessment]Scoping Report shall include the following:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VI. Health and Safety Plan and Maritime Security Plan Note: several important provisions of this Annex have currently been placed in the Suspense document and will be incorporated into Standards and Guidelines at a later stage. A Health and Safety Plan; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex X bis ter [Alt.] Design Criteria for Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones Applicants must establish suitable and effective Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones in order to monitor the Environmental Impacts of their activities. The following parameters shall apply in the designation of Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones. Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones must be situated within the Contract Area (and the Contract Area may need to be selected around the need for appropriate Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones, especially where multiple or large reference zones are required) The applicant needs to demonstrate that the Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones are environmentally [ecologically] similar before the commencement of mining. Additional Impact Reference Zones and Preservation Reference Zones have to be introduced subsequently, once areas ecologically dissimilar from the primary Preservation Reference Zones are impacted, to warrant future comparability. To designate representative IRZs/PRZs requires characterisation of the pelagic and benthic environment including all sub-habitats that may be impacted by Exploitation activitiesmining operations, and determination of regional distributions and patterns of connectivity of communities. Temporal variation must also be evaluated over multiple years. Impact Reference Zones must be zones where direct impacts from mining are predicted to occur once mining commences. All types of impact [from mining-related activities in any Contract Area identified in the Environmental Impact Statement], must correspond with [at least 1] IRZ[/IRZs] which will enable the Contractor to monitor these impacts. Designation of multiple IRZs [(or a very large IRZ) may be necessary is possible] for this purpose. The area(s) of the Impact Reference Zones needs to be sufficiently large and representative to allow adequate assessment of recovery of populations and environmental conditions after the Exploitation activities, in accordance with the applicable relevant Standards and taking into consideration account relevant Guidelines. Preservation Reference Zones will be important in identifying natural variations in environmental conditions against which impacts shall be assessed and must be comparable to that of the Impact Areas, in accordance with the applicable relevant Standards and, taking into consideration account the relevant Guidelines. [The abiotic and biotic baseline data include but are not limited to the quantity and quality of mineral resources, species composition and habitat types.] Preservation Reference Zones must be areas that will not be impacted by Exploitation activities from any Contractor, including impacts from operational and discharge plumes and including during the post-closure period. Preservation Reference Zones should must also be free from impacts of other industrial activities. Preservation Reference Zones should must have to remain unimpacted throughout the post-mining monitoring period. Where a Contract Area consists of several disjunct sub-areas that are isolated from each other, then each of those areas would require a corresponding Preservation Reference Zone and Impact Reference Zone. Use of multiple Preservation Reference Zones and Impact Reference Zones should be considered for increase in statistical rigour, and chance of detecting effects and adding redundancy in case of unexpected variation/plan changes. The area of the Preservation Reference Zone needs to be sufficiently large to contain sufficiently large populations to guarantee long-term survival. The Preservation Reference Zone will also require a buffer zone around it to protect the populations and ensure maintenance of natural environmental conditions in the Preservation Reference Zone. Abiotic and biotic parameters, within the IRZ and PRZ will need to be monitored to quantify impacts. This includes but is not limited to monitoring species diversity and function. To establish an adequate baseline and to find suitable indicator species (e.g., the sensitive species that will suffer most from an impact, key-stone species that are crucial for ecosystem processes, or species which abundance indicates a disrupted ecosystem functioning), it will be necessary to catalogue most species in the IRZ and PRZ in question and unravel their functions. This will require sufficient sampling effort to collect sample sizes that allow for a meaningful comparison (i.e., with high statistical power). The longevity of PRZs and duration of post-monitoring are important. The duration of post-mining monitoring should last until [monitoring results show a trajectory towards recovery. Post-mining monitoring should be described in the final EMMP and/or Closure Plan] no measurable difference between IRZ and PRZ can be detected anymore. [13 Alt. Post mining monitoring shall continue until [monitoring show a trajectory towards recovery of] ecosystem function [returns to the level of the pre-mining condition] agreed within the EMMP/Closure Plan and taking into account the time taken to reach a new equilibrium state.] Isolation of Preservation Reference Zone is important. Any Preservation Reference Zone will by definition have to remain unimpacted throughout the post-mining monitoring period. [ To designate representative IRZs/PRZs requires characterisation of the pelagic and benthic environment including all sub-habitats that may be impacted by Exploitation activitiesmining operations, and determination of regional distributions and patterns of connectivity of communities. Temporal variation must also be evaluated over multiple years.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 1; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 14. Инспектирование
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 7. Confidentiality of data and information from prospecting contained in the annual report; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 1; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 31. Protection et préservation du milieu marin
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 18. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке Каждый заявитель в целях утверждения плана работы по разведке в форме контракта представляет следующую информацию: a) общее описание и график предлагаемой программы разведки, включая программу деятельности на ближайший пятилетний период, как то запланированные исследования в отношении экологических, технических, экономических и прочих соответствующих факторов, которые должны учитываться при разведке;; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 32. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 14. Инспектирование
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第18条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料为了使合同形式的勘探工作计划获得核准，每一申请者应提交下列资料：; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第32条环境基线和监测; 第33条紧急命令; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 7. Confidentiality of data and information from prospecting contained in the annual report; Regulation 18. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration Each applicant shall submit, with a view to receiving approval of the plan of work for exploration in the form of a contract, the following information:; Regulation 31. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 32. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 33. Emergency orders; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 1; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 33. Protection et préservation du milieu marin
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 1. Употребление терминов и сфера применения; Правило 5. Защита и сохранение морской среды в ходе поиска; Правило 7. Конфиденциальность содержащихся в годовом отчете данных и информации, полученных в результате поиска; Правило 20. Данные и информация, подлежащие представлению для утверждения плана работы по разведке; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 34. Экологический фон и мониторинг; Раздел II. Информация о заявочном районе; Раздел IV. План работы по разведке; Раздел 5. Экологический мониторинг; Раздел 6. Планы чрезвычайных мер и чрезвычайные ситуации; Раздел 10. Годовые отчеты; Раздел 11. Данные и информация, представляемые по истечении срока действия контракта; Раздел 14. Инспектирование
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第7条年度报告内的探矿数据和资料的机密性; 第20条须为核准勘探工作计划提交的数据和资料; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条环境基线和监测; 第35条紧急命令; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Regulation 7. Confidentiality of data and information from prospecting contained in the annual report; Regulation 20. Data and information to be submitted for approval of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 34. Environmental baselines and monitoring; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Section IV. The plan of work for exploration; Section 5. Environmental monitoring 5.1 The Contractor shall take necessary measures to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment arising from its activities in the Area as far as reasonably possible applying a precautionary approach and best environmental practices. 5.2 Prior to the commencement of exploration activities, the Contractor shall submit to the Authority:; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 145; Paragraph 147; Paragraph 3
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 15; Paragraph 115; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 143; Paragraph 144; Paragraph 145; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 147; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 149; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 236; Paragraph 3
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 25; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 39; Paragraph 121; Paragraph 129
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 3. Definitions. (1) In these Regulations: ‘Act’ means the Nauru Seabed Authority Act of 2024; ‘Applicable Guideline’ means a guideline issued by the Authority under regulation 55 or a guideline issued by the ISA, as the context requires; ‘Applicable Standard’ means a standard approved by the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, or a standard approved by the Minister under regulation 55 as the context requires; ‘Authorised Representative’ means the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority and any duly authorised officer performing functions of the Authority under the Act; ‘Best Available Techniques’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Environmental Practices’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Best Available Scientific Information’ shall have the same meaning as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Board’ means the Board of Directors of the Authority; ‘Closure Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Continual Improvement’ means a process of enhancing, on an ongoing basis, the measures in order to achieve improvements in overall health, safety and environmental performance consistent with the ISA’s and Sponsored Party’s health, safety and environmental policies and objectives; ‘Control Measure’ means a system, an item of equipment, a person or a procedure, that is used as a basis for managing the health, safety and environmental impacts and risks of an activity; ‘Early Warning Indicator Criteria’ means criteria used to give an early warning that an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome may be breached or not met; ‘Environmental Performance’ means the performance of a Sponsored Party in relation to the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental; Section 4. Performance Outcomes set out in an Environmental Management and. Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Impact’ means any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, that wholly or partly results from the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Impact Assessment’ means an impact assessment conducted in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management System’, has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA and used to manage the environmental aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Performance Objective’ means the performance objectives included in an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Performance Outcome’ means a measurable level of performance (qualitative or quantitative) for the desired state of the marine environment, including the quantitative value or concentration of a particular substance in the water column, sediment, or biota, arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities, which shall not be exceeded in order to protect the marine environment as set out in the Applicable Standards or an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Response and Contingency Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Risk’ means the chance of something happening that will have an adverse Environmental Impact, measured in terms of the environmental consequences and the likelihood of those particular consequences occurring; ‘Financing Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Good Industry Practice’ has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Management System’ means a system for managing the health and safety aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities, including occupational health and safety; ‘Health and Safety Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Performance Standard’ means a standard, established by a Sponsored Party, of the performance required of a system, item of equipment, person or procedure which is used as a basis for managing the risk of a major accident event; ‘ICC’ means the International Chamber of Commerce as defined under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules; ‘Management System’ means a Health and Safety Management System and an Environmental Management System;; Section 5. ‘Material Change’ means a significant change as defined in the relevant Rules. of the ISA; ‘Performance Improvement Plan’ means a plan to address the issues identified by the Authority as may be required by regulation 47; ‘Plan of Work’ is a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation in the Area as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Reportable Event’ means an event that is classified as such under these Regulations or a Sponsorship Agreement, and includes: (a) a notifiable event defined under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) a failure to comply with the fundamental terms and conditions of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, including a failure to achieve, or a breach of, an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome; (c) a determination by the ISA that the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan is inadequate in any material respect following a performance assessment under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) a contravention of, or a failure to comply with, a material term or condition of the Sponsorship Agreement; (e) a material reduction in production under a Plan of Work; (f) any failure, or likely failure in a Management System that could cause or contribute to a major accident or incident; (g) the identification of any new significant health and safety risk or significant Environmental Risk, or a significant change to existing risk calculations; (h) the receipt of a written instruction from an inspector appointed by the ISA; (i) the receipt of a compliance notice from the ISA; (j) a request by the ISA to audit the books of the sponsored entity; (k) the taking of any measures under regulation 35; (l) a failure to comply with a compliance direction or emergency direction under regulations 47 or 48 within the time allowed in the direction; or (m) any event classified by the Authority as a Reportable Event as the Seabed Mineral Activities progress; and ‘Technical Assistance Committee’ means a technical committee, set up by the Authority under the Act; ‘UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules’ means the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law adopted by the United General Assembly on 9 December 2021; (2) Terms used in these regulations that are defined in the Act have the meanings given to them by the Act.; Section 7. (ii) a statement that the draft ISA application has been prepared in. accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (iii) a document setting out the framework of the Management System, including details of the standard operating procedures to monitor and track compliance with the Act, these Regulations, and the relevant Rules of the ISA, including the primary procedures to control the risk of significant accidents and hazards; (iv) in the case of proposed exploitation, a statement demonstrating that the Seabed Mineral Activities will take place in accordance with sound commercial principles; (v) a summary of the key issues arising from the Environmental Impact Assessment, including the evaluation of the Environmental Risks and Environmental Impacts and the measures to manage, limit or remedy such risks and impacts of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment; (vi) a summary of where applicable, the measurement criteria to be adopted to measure the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes and how these will be monitored, achieved and reported, including the use of Early Warning Indicator Criteria; (vii) a summary of the Control Measures that will be used to reduce the impacts and risks of the Seabed Mineral Activities to human health and safety and the marine environment to as low as reasonably practicable; (viii) a summary of any matter in the draft ISA application where the applicant considers there is a significant lack of information or a significant degree of uncertainty, together with a summary of its likely impact on any major assumptions made and how the applicant intends to address such lack of data or information or uncertainty through any further investigations, studies or tests; (ix) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply the precautionary approach and the extent to which the precautionary approach is integrated into the applicant’s risk assessment and management processes; (x) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply the ecosystem-based management approach; (xi) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply Best Environmental Practices and Best Available Techniques; and; Section 8. (xii) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and. apply the use of Best Available Scientific Information; (e) include the results of any consultation conducted by the applicant with any interest groups or the general public in Nauru, including through any Environmental Impact Assessment or social impact assessment process. (f) include the information under Schedule 1; and (g) include the applicable fee. (3) Where the information required under this regulation is presented in the draft ISA application, the applicant may make reference to the relevant part of the draft ISA application when providing the information to the Authority. Receipt, acknowledgement and safe custody of applications by the Authority (1) On the receipt of an application the Chief Executive Officer shall immediately make a written record of the date and time of receipt. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall give an applicant written acknowledgment of receipt specifying the date and time of receipt within 5 days after the date the Authority receives an application. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall place the application in safe custody and ensure the confidentiality of all information contained in the application in accordance with the Authority’s information management procedures. Authority may request further information (1) Where the Chief Executive Officer determines within 10 days after the date the Authority receives an application that the application does not comply with regulation 4 the Chief Executive Officer shall, in writing, request further information from the applicant or require the applicant to revise the application. (2) The applicant shall, within 10 days after the date it receives a request or at any other time approved by the Chief Executive Officer provide the information under subregulation (1). (3) The Chief Executive Officer may return an application without a decision or further processing of the application where the applicant fails to comply with a reasonable request under subregulation (2). Authority may commission expert review of an application (1) The Chief Executive Officer may commission an approved expert to review any part of the application.; Section 10. (a). clarification of the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) the compliance record, if any, of the applicant with an ISA contract; (c) any data, information, reports or studies held by the ISA that may be relevant to the sponsorship application; and (d) any other matters relevant to the application. (3) Where required under the relevant Rules of the ISA, including rules relating to the disclosure of confidential information held by the ISA, the applicant shall grant the ISA the necessary permission to disclose any information, whether confidential or otherwise contemplated by subregulation (2), to the Authority. (4) The Chief Executive Officer shall ensure that any advice or information arising from consultation under this regulation is provided in the report prepared under regulation 9(1). Review of application and preparation of assessment report (1) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days after the date the Authority receives the application, prepare an assessment report for the Board providing an overview and assessment of the application and the applicant against the Qualification Criteria in Section 17 of the Act taking into consideration the Applicable Guideline. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall: (a) seek advice or comments from relevant Departments, the Technical Assistance Committee and approved experts as necessary in order to prepare the report under subregulation (1); and (b) provide a copy of the report to the Sponsorship Applicant for its review and comment. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall submit the application, his or her assessment report and any relevant information under regulation 10 to the Board for its consideration. Relevant information for consideration of application by Authority (1) The Authority shall in considering and determining an application under Section 16, and in making a recommendation to the Cabinet under Section 18 of the Act, consider the following: (a) the Act and these Regulations; (b) the relevant Rules of the ISA; (c) the Chief Executive Officer’s assessment report; (d) any comments provided by the Sponsorship Applicant under regulation 9(2)(b);; Section 12. (a). request, through the Chief Executive Officer, that the applicant provide further information considered necessary by the Board to assess the criteria under Section 17(1) of the Act; (b) request that the applicant submit modifications to the application; or (c) obtain advice from the Chief Executive Officer who may engage Approved Experts as necessary to assist in the Board’s review and assessment of the Qualification Criteria or in formulating any specific conditions under regulation 24. Amendment of applications during assessment An applicant may, at any time before a recommendation is made to the Cabinet by the Authority, amend an application:; Section 16. (a). a summary of the key issues presented in the application; (b) details of any uncertainty or inadequacy in the information available; (c) an analysis of the significant opportunities and risks to the Republic identified by the Authority’s assessment and consideration of the application; (d) the Board’s reasons for its recommendation to the Cabinet whether to sponsor or not to sponsor an applicant against the criteria under section 17 of the Act, including if sponsorship of an applicant should be subject to one or more specific conditions contemplated by regulation 25 and the reasons for recommending such conditions; and (e) any other information the Board considers relevant for the Cabinet’s consideration. Sponsorship decision-making by the Cabinet Where the Cabinet issues a certificate, the Authority shall prepare the Sponsorship Certificate and any draft Sponsorship Agreement, incorporating any specific conditions recommended by the Authority and approved by the Cabinet.; Section 21. cooperate with the ISA and provide it with such data and information held. by the Authority to assist the ISA in determining whether the Sponsored Party is qualified applicant under the relevant Rules of the ISA, including the results of the Authority’s assessment of the sponsorship Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act. Material change to ISA application (1) A Sponsored Party shall, pursuant to Section 24 of the Act notify the Chief Executive Officer of any proposed Material Change to an ISA application or new or updated information within 48 hours of becoming aware of such change or information. (2) The notification shall include details of the proposed change or new or updated information including its assessment of any significant impact on the terms of sponsorship or ability to continue to satisfy the Qualification Criteria. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 5 days of the date of receipt of the notification review the information provided by the Sponsored Party under subregulation (2) and provide to the Board his or her comments for the Board’s consideration. (4) The Board shall consider the proposed Material Change or new or updated information, and taking account of the comments of the Chief Executive Officer provide any comments to the Sponsored Party for its consideration pursuant to section 24(2) of the Act.; Section 22. Approved Plan of Work. (1) On any approval of a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation by the ISA, the Sponsored Party shall provide a copy of the approved plan to the Authority, including a summary in table form of any conditions attaching to such approval. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the Sponsored Party with a view to ensuring that the necessary and appropriate procedures and processes, including the recording and reporting of data and information are in place, or will be in place to monitor effectively the implementation of the plan and any related conditions through appropriate Control Measures.; Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 24. Specific conditions of sponsorship. (1) The Authority may pursuant to regulation 14(5) recommend to the Cabinet that specific conditions be included in a Sponsorship Agreement as considered necessary and appropriate to promote compliance with the Act and its objectives, taking into account: (a) the Republic’s obligation to take all necessary and reasonably appropriate measures to secure effective compliance of a Sponsored Party pursuant to article 139(2) of the UNCLOS; (b) the Republic’s obligation to assist the ISA to ensure such compliance pursuant to article 153(3) of the UNCLOS; the monitoring and enforcement capacity of the ISA at the time of the application; and (c) (d) the results and findings from the assessment of the Qualification Criteria. (2) Specific conditions may be included for the purpose of requiring the Sponsored Party to, for example: (a) undertake specific monitoring or reporting on its Seabed Mineral Activities at specified intervals, including information to be supplied to the Authority; (b) taking out a certain category of insurance; (c) undertake specific studies, investigations or analysis; (d) make specific information or records available for audit or verification by the Authority or by an approved expert; (e) align with a specific internationally accepted process standard; (f) provide a Security Deposit pursuant to Section 52 of the Act and regulation 26 to manage any risk and liability exposures; (g) be vicariously liable for any environmental breaches caused by its employees; (h) implement specified measures relating to the health, safety and welfare of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities and not regulated by any other competent authority, body or organisation; (i) implement specified measures which may include specified Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes to deal with the potential risks and effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (j) undertake specific education and awareness programmes in the Republic relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; (k) provide specific reporting on or compliance with the Qualification Criteria prior to the commencement of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (l) pay a specified penalty if the Sponsored Party does not comply with a condition of the Sponsorship Agreement. (3) The Authority shall consider, where applicable, whether the specific conditions recommended under this regulation are reasonably practicable in relation to the matter the condition is intended to address, and compliance with the condition can be monitored effectively by the Authority and the Sponsored Party. (4) The Authority may recommend more stringent conditions than those of the relevant Rules of the ISA pursuant to annex III, article 21(3) of the UNCLOS. (5) In formulating any specific conditions, the Authority may seek advice from relevant Departments or an approved expert.; Section 25. Security Deposit. (1) In determining the requirement for any Security Deposit under Section 52 of the Act, the Authority shall consider the following factors: (a) the nature, stage, scale and likely impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (b) the Sponsored Party’s Environmental Performance record; (c) the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party and its access to financial resources, including the Sponsored Party’s capacity to respond to incidents; (d) the availability of relevant market instruments, such as insurance; (e) the Sponsored Party’s capacity to undertake any post closure monitoring; (f) the technical and economic feasibility of rectifying any damage that may be caused to the marine environment; and (g) the type and quantum of any guarantee, deposit or bond that a Sponsored Party is required to deposit with the ISA for an equivalent purpose. (2) The terms of any Security Deposit shall provide: (a) a date by which the deposit shall be made, which may be before the Seabed Mineral Activities commence; (b) details of the amount and form of security to be given; (c) that the amount of the security is to be reviewed annually and where necessary adjusted; (d) for the terms of forfeiture, repayment or release of all or part of the security; and (e) that the security may be varied, cancelled, or renewed by agreement between the Sponsored Party and the Authority. (3) Any Security Deposit shall be held by the Department responsible for finance in accordance with its policy and procedures, and in the case of cash, held in a secured interest-bearing account with a financial institution with a long-term international credit rating of AA or higher. (4) Any Security Deposit may be provided by way of instalments over a specified period. (5) Where a Sponsored Party is required to lodge a Security Deposit with the Republic prior to the commencement of Seabed Mineral Activities, the Sponsored Party may not commence activities until it has provided the required deposit in accordance with the conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement. (6) The terms of any Security Deposit may require that the deposit, or a portion of it, continues for a specified period after sponsorship is terminated to the extent that the Authority considers it may be required to fulfil any obligations of the Sponsored Party under the Act. (7) The Authority may appoint an independent assessor to advise on the appropriate amount of any Security Deposit under this regulation. (8) The application of this regulation is subject to the Applicable Guideline issued by the Authority. (9) The provision of a Security Deposit does not limit the liability of the Sponsored Party under the Act or an ISA contract.; Section 26. Variation of terms and conditions of sponsorship. (1) Pursuant to Section 25(3) of the Act, the Authority or the Sponsored Party may notify the other at any time to request a variation of a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement where a party considers that the variation is necessary: (a) to ensure consistency with: (i) the Republic’s international legal obligations; (ii) the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (iii) a modified plan of work; (b) to accommodate new or previously unforeseen significant health, safety or Environmental Risks or Environmental Impacts that have been identified in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) to take account of changes in Good Industry Practice, Best Environmental Practices, or Best Available Techniques; or (d) to reflect any change in circumstances or assumptions where information shows that the variation of any terms or conditions is appropriate to deal with such change. (2) A notice under subregulation (1) shall identify the conditions to be reviewed, give reasons for the review and may propose new conditions. (3) The parties shall consult on any variation to the terms and conditions of sponsorship within 30 days following the date of receipt of a notice and work together to amend the Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Prior to making any recommendations to the Minister, the Authority may consult with the ISA or an approved expert on the appropriateness of the variation of any terms or conditions. (5) The Authority shall make recommendations to the Minister for any proposed variation to any terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement for the responsible Minister’s consent and the Cabinet’s approval.; Section 29. Record keeping requirements applicable to certain information. (1) The records under subregulation (2) shall be kept and maintained: (a) in electronic form or digital form capable of being retrieved; and (b) manually or in case of electronic or digital form, capable of being produced in printed form. (2) A Sponsored Party shall keep and maintain the following records or reports during the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities: (a) the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; (b) the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan; (c) the Health and Safety Plan; (d) records relating to Environmental Performance and the Health and Safety Performance Standards; (e) records of mining discharges into the marine environment; (f) records of calibration and maintenance of monitoring devices used to monitor the Environmental Performance Outcomes; (g) written reports including monitoring, audit and review reports relating to Environmental Performance and the Health and Safety Performance Standards; and other records or reports required under the relevant Rules of the ISA to monitor and assess the performance of a Sponsored Party. (h) (3) A Sponsored Party that contravenes subregulations (1) or (2) commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 35. Duty to manage risk. (1) A Sponsored Party shall take necessary and appropriate measures to manage the risk of hazards and accidents, taking into consideration appropriate risk assessment consistent with the requirements of the relevant Rules of the ISA and Good Industry Practice. (2) Where an activity carried out by a Sponsored Party significantly increases the risk of a major hazard or accident, the Sponsored Party shall take such necessary and appropriate measures, including any adjustment to the Control Measures to ensure that the risk is reduced as low as is reasonably practicable. (3) The measures referred to in subregulation (2) may include, where necessary, suspending the relevant activity until the risk is adequately controlled.; Section 36. Management and control of accidents and hazards. (1) A Sponsored Party, its Affiliates and Associates shall pursue Continual Improvement in their Management Systems, including through specifying the requirements for the audit of such systems and the frequency of such audits. (2) The Authority may request the Sponsored Party at any time to review its Management Systems, or that of its Affiliates or Associates and to provide to the Authority sufficient information to demonstrate that: (a) the Sponsored Party’s Management System is adequate to ensure: (i) that the relevant provisions of the Act, these Regulations and the relevant Rules of the ISA will, in respect of matters within the Sponsored Party’s control, be complied with; and (ii) that the management of arrangements with Affiliates and Associates is satisfactory; (b) the procedures and arrangements described in the Management System documentation which may affect the health and safety of persons or the marine environment are followed; (c) the Sponsored Party has established adequate arrangements for audit and for the making of reports of the audit, including audit of the Management Systems of its Affiliates and Associates; (d) all accidents and hazards with the potential to cause a major accident or incident have been identified; and (e) all major accident and hazard risks have undergone a risk assessment process to determine that their likelihood and consequences assessed, including any health, safety and Environmental Risks and that suitable Control Measures, have been, or will be, taken to control those risks to ensure that the relevant Rules of the ISA and these regulations will be complied with. (3) In this regulation, ‘audit’ means the continual and systematic assessment of the adequacy of the Management System to achieve the purpose referred to in subregulation (2)(a) carried out by a qualified person in accordance with Good Industry Practice. (4) Details of the qualified person carrying out the audit, including name and qualifications shall be submitted together with the information provided under subregulation (2). (5) The demonstration of the matters referred to in subregulation (1)(e) shall include the response effectiveness of the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan in respect of the Seabed Minerals Activities, as well as the adequacy of the Health and Safety Plan. (6) This regulation is to be applied consistently with the relevant Rules of the ISA and with a view to avoiding any duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements.; Section 38. Inquiries into incidents. (1) For the purpose of Section 62 of the Act, the Authority may, in cooperation with the ISA and other concerned organisations or otherwise, initiate an inquiry into any incident with a view of: (a) establishing available facts and findings in respect of the incident; (b) acquiring information to be used for the future management of the effects of the incident; (c) avoiding, minimising and managing the future risk of incidents; (d) forming a view as to whether enforcement action should be taken against the Sponsored Party under the Act or these Regulations. (2) As part of any inquiry into an incident, the Authority shall form a view on: (a) the facts and circumstances of the incident; (b) the actual, likely, or possible causes of and contributing factors to the incident; (c) the extent of any harm to the environment, any person, or any interest arising from the incident; (d) the actions taken in response to the Incident and the effectiveness of those actions taken by any person to mitigate or remedy the harm caused by the Incident; (e) potential future consequences of the incident, and options for preventing or minimising those consequences; (f) options for mitigating the risk of future incidents, whether or not of a similar nature to the Incident that is the subject of the inquiry. (3) After completing an inquiry, the Authority shall: (a) prepare a report setting out its findings, recommendations, if any, arising from the inquiry; views and (b) provide a copy of the report to the Minister and the ISA; (c) make available to the public the final report, including through publication on its website; and (d) consider any action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations. (4) An inquiry shall be conducted as soon as practicable after an incident. (5) The Authority may: (a) conduct the inquiry itself or appoint an approved expert to conduct it and make a report to the Authority; and (b) invite any person contributing to or directly affected by the incident, representatives of the ISA, other relevant organisations and flag States and other persons having knowledge or facts of the incident to present information at the inquiry.; Section 39. Authority to monitor Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) The Authority shall, in cooperation with the ISA monitor the Seabed Mineral Activities of a Sponsored Party, including a Sponsored Party’s environmental monitoring programme to determine whether the activities are compliant with the obligations imposed by the Act, these Regulations, the relevant Rules of the ISA and the terms and conditions of an ISA contract and Sponsorship Agreement. (2) The Authority may engage Approved Experts to monitor, evaluate and analyse such data and information made available to the Authority by a Sponsored Party, including the provision of real-time data as is necessary for the Authority to make any determination under subregulation (1).; Section 42. (a). transfer any duly appointed observer of the Authority to or from any vessel used for the Seabed Mineral Activities, together with any necessary equipment; (b) provide such observers with appropriate accommodation and subsistence and access to communication equipment while on board any vessel; and (c) notify the Chief Executive Officer of proposed vessel schedules in a timely manner to facilitate the transfer of the Authority’s observers and representatives. Observers powers and functions (1) An observer shall, for the purposes of monitoring the Seabed Mineral Activities while onboard a vessel: (a) question any relevant person engaged by the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities on any matter relating to the compliance of the Sponsored Party with the Act, these Regulations and the Sponsorship Agreement; (b) request any relevant person to produce any document that is necessary to monitor the Sponsored Party’s compliance and examine such a document and make a copy of it; (c) examine any equipment that records data and information; and (d) document any activity using any means to do so, including video, audio, photograph, or other form of recording. (2) An observer shall report to the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with the Applicable Guideline and provide a final report to the Chief Executive Officer within 30 days following the completion of his or her duties. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the report, and following any consultation with the Sponsored Party on the report provide to the Board his or her comments and recommendations for the Board’s consideration.; Section 43. Complaints about observers. (1) A Sponsored Party may complain in writing to the Chief Executive Officer where an observer has acted unreasonably in the execution of his or her monitoring duties including a failure to follow instructions and directions relating to the safety of life at sea or unnecessary interference with the operations of the Sponsored Party. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall consider any complaint under subregulation (2) within 5 days of receiving such complaint, and where required take such action as is necessary in response to the complaint including the issue of a letter of reprimand to an observer setting out any corrective action to be taken. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall provide to the Board details of any complaint received under subregulation (1) and any action taken under subregulation (2).; Section 44. Real-time data and monitoring. (1) A Sponsored Party shall, when conducting Seabed Mineral Activities pursuant to the relevant Rules of the ISA and this regulation gather and monitor real-time data using an independent, automatic, and continual monitoring system capable of recording, storing, and transmitting data. (2) To assist the Authority in monitoring compliance of the Sponsored Party, the Sponsored Party shall transmit to the Authority such types of operational and monitoring data required under the relevant Rules of the ISA at the same time such data is transmitted to the ISA under the relevant rules of the ISA, taking into consideration any technical limitations on the transmission of such data in real-time.; Section 55. Standards and guideline documents. (1) The Minister may, based on the recommendations of the Authority, approve standards relating to: (a) the protection of the marine environment, including environmental assessment, management and monitoring of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) the protection of the health and safety and rights of persons engaged directly in exploration or exploitation operations. (2) Standards approved under subregulation (1) shall be consistent with or supplement existing international law, including the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Minister may approve standards more stringent than those contained in the relevant Rules of the ISA. (4) Standards are legally binding on a Sponsored Party. (5) The Authority may also, from time to time, issue guidelines of a technical or administrative nature to help support the implementation of the Act, these Regulations, the standards and the terms and conditions under a Sponsorship Agreement. (6) Prior to issuing a standard or guideline, the Authority shall: (a) notify persons, including a Sponsored Party who are likely to be affected by the standard or guideline; (b) provide those persons a reasonable opportunity to comment on the content of the proposed standard or guideline; (c) consult with approved experts on the content of the proposed standard or guideline depending on the technical content of the document; and (d) consider the relevant Rules of the ISA, including Applicable Standards, Applicable Guidelines or recommendations issued by the ISA or other competent organisations as representing internationally agreed standards and recommended practices and procedures.; Section 58. Information to be submitted on termination of sponsorship or cessation. of Seabed Mineral Activities Upon termination of a Sponsorship Certificate or a cessation of Seabed Mineral Activities a Sponsored Party shall submit the following information to the Authority: (a) a statement, accompanied by supporting evidence: (i) that where applicable, the Closure Plan has been or will be implemented effectively; (ii) that significant residual Environmental Risks and effects have been identified and will be monitored and managed in accordance with the Closure Plan; (iii) that all remediation, restoration rehabilitation required to be undertaken under the Closure Plan has been completed or will be put in place; (b) details of the expected costs to implement the closure requirements under paragraph (a); (c) the final compliance statement, final seabed minerals recovery payment report and any other technical reports that may be requested by the Authority or required under the Applicable Guideline; (d) the following declarations, in the form of a statutory declaration: (i) a declaration that the Seabed Mineral Activities have ceased; (ii) a declaration that there are no outstanding liabilities under the Act or these Regulations; (iii) a declaration that all fees, royalties, or penalties under the Act or these Regulations have been paid; (iv) a declaration that outlines any legal proceedings in respect of the Seabed Mineral Activities that involve the Sponsored Party as a party to those proceedings; and (v) a declaration that demonstrates that the Sponsored Party has the financial resources to meet the expected costs to implement the requirements of the Closure Plan, where applicable.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 5. Scope of this Act. (1) The objectives of this Act are: (a) to establish a legal framework for the sponsorship, and for the effective control, by Nauru of contractors to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (b) to provide that Seabed Mineral Activities under Nauru’s sponsorship in the Area must be carried out under Nauru’s effective control in accordance with best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including Nauru’s responsibilities under the UNCLOS and specifically Nauru’s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (c) to promote transparency in decision making on matters concerning Nauru’s management of Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) to provide a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory environment for investors in Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) to secure optimum benefits, long term-economic growth and sustainable development for Nauru from the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; (f) to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations. (2) In order to achieve its objectives, this Act inter alia: (a) creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Authority to licence, monitor and manage Nauru’s involvement with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) establishes a system for Sponsorship Applications, and the grant of Sponsorships Certificates under which Sponsored Parties will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (c) provides for Nauru to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities, and for a ring-fenced Seabed Minerals Fund for the responsible long-term management of any funds raised by Nauru from Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) This Act is made on the basis that the Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity will be developed in an appropriate and timely manner for the purpose of securing that Seabed Mineral Activities will comply with relevant standards and obligations of international law.; Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Nauruan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to applications, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (c) conduct due diligence enquiries into Sponsorship Applicants or Sponsored Parties; (d) receive and evaluate Sponsorship Applications; (e) recommend to Cabinet whether Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted or not, and if permitted, on what terms; (f) if approved by Cabinet, prepare and issue Certificates of Sponsorship for successful Sponsorship Applicants; (g) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract; (h) maintain Nauru’s and its Sponsored Parties’ understanding of and compliance with international laws, standards and rules relevant to Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (j) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for Nauru to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (k) require and review relevant reports and information, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (l) with Cabinet approval, establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by Nauru to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities, and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (m) insofar as they are not prescribed by law, negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (n) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of Nauru’s Seabed Mineral Activities including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, technical matters and the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, including from experts outside of the country. (2) The Cabinet may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power to make such examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as are necessary to meet responsibilities under international law, which may include the: its (a) sending of an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities and vessel or premises of the Sponsored Party; and (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, from time to time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection 1(a) shall take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels. (3) Where an inspection is carried out in accordance with subsection 1(b), the Authority may direct any person to furnish within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to any Sponsorship Certificate or Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person or party who fails to comply with a direction issued under this section commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $100,000 or imprisonment for 10 years or both.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 17. Qualification Criteria for issuance of Sponsorship Certificate. The Qualification Criteria for a Sponsorship Applicant are as follows: (a) the applicant is an existing body corporate, incorporated and registered in the Republic or a public enterprise under the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (i) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) cover the costs of any potential liability arising from incidents, accidents, pollution, or any other serious harm occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) respond to any incident; (c) has adequate risk management strategies, capability and management systems to meet health and safety and environmental requirements under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) has implemented a system of corporate governance and transparency to support the proper performance of obligations under an ISA Contract, including the effective monitoring and management of Affiliates and Associates; (e) has implemented policies and codes of conduct that prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment or bullying and promote diversity and equality in the workplace; and (f) that each director or officer, its Affiliates and Associates that are involved in the management of the Sponsorship Applicant’s business, engaged or to be engaged in the conduct of all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities and their directors or officers, have not, in any jurisdiction been: (i) found on credible evidence to have breached a term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct seabed mineral activities or similar sea or land-based activity; (ii) convicted of an offence relating to the conduct of seabed mineral activities or other sea or land-based exploration or exploitation activity under any natural resource, health and safety, or environmental laws; or (iii) convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (g) in considering the criteria under paragraph (f), the Authority shall take into account the seriousness and impact of the Sponsorship Applicant’s conduct or that of a director or officer, or relevant Affiliate or Associate, and any mitigating circumstances, including any remedial action taken and the time elapsed since any breach or conviction; and (h) has paid the applicable fee.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 30. Responsibilities of Nauru as a Sponsoring State. Where the Republic is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a corresponding ISA Contract to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, the Government or through the Authority shall: (a) take all appropriate means to exercise its Effective Control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the Republic, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (c) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (d) promote the application of the precautionary approach and implementation of best environmental practices and best available techniques in cooperation with the ISA and the Sponsored Party; (e) comply with its due diligence obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (f) within its competence and capabilities and in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA, adopt a plan to implement and modify measures for the effective protection of the Marine Environment which may arise from Seabed Mineral Activities, in cooperation with the ISA or on the advice of Approved Experts; (g) cooperate with the ISA to provide such data and information as is reasonably necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) assist the ISA in carrying out supervision, monitoring, audits and inspections of the Sponsored Party and cooperate with coastal States and flag States where relevant, with the aim to ensure the Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (i) assist the Sponsored Party in any interaction with the ISA relating to the administration of the ISA Contract, including clarification of any requirements under the Rules of the ISA; (j) provide the Sponsored Party with copies of any information or notices received by the Authority from the ISA, States Parties, other regulatory bodies or persons relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (k) accord the Sponsored Party fair and equitable treatment, and provide a stable and predictable legal framework and make decisions consistently and transparently; (l) keep the Sponsored Party informed of any amendments to any written law and the regulatory regime that may affect a Sponsored Party or their Seabed Mineral Activities and provide a Sponsored Party sufficient time to ensure that they are able to comply with those changes; (m) not nationalise or expropriate a Sponsored Party’s investment or take measures having effect equivalent to nationalisation or expropriation except for on a non-discriminatory basis and against prompt adequate and effective compensation, such compensation shall: (i) amount to the genuine value of the Sponsored Party’s investment immediately before the expropriation or before the impending expropriation becomes public knowledge whichever is the earlier; (ii) include interest at a normal commercial rate until the date of payment; (iii) be made without delay; (iv) be effectively realisable; and (v) be freely transferable; (n) accord all Sponsored Parties treatment no less favourable that the treatment it accords, in like situations, to other investors; (o) accord Sponsored Parties full security and protection; and (p) guarantee the conversion and transfer overseas of Sponsored Parties’ earnings and savings or earnings of expatriate personnel, their affiliates and subcontractors, resulting from the Seabed Minerals Activities.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power, whether acting on its own or in cooperation with the ISA, to conduct examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties, Affiliates or Associates and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as is necessary to meet the Republic’s responsibilities under any written law or international law, which may include: (a) sending an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities, vessel installation or premises of the Sponsored Party, Affiliates or Associates; (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, at any time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; or (c) use of real time monitoring technologies. (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection (1)(a) shall: (a) take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels; and (b) follow all instructions and directions pertaining to the safety of life at sea given to them by the master of the vessel or other relevant safety officers aboard vessels and installations. (3) The Authority may direct any person to furnish it within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person who without reasonable excuse fails to comply with a direction issued under this Section, commits an offence and shall upon conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding $200,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years, or to both.; Section 45. Principle of cost recovery for applicable fees. (1) The Authority shall, when determining applicable fees take all reasonable steps to recover as much of the actual and reasonable costs incurred by the Authority in performing its functions under this Act, including the supervision and monitoring of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) All applicable fees shall be approved by the Cabinet on the recommendation of the Authority.; Section 67. Enactment of the Act in recognition of the development of. Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity This Act is enacted on the basis that the Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity is to be developed in an appropriate and timely manner for the purpose of securing that Seabed Mineral Activities shall comply with relevant standards and obligations of international law.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 6. Operation of this Act In order to achieve its objects, this Act inter alia – (a) creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Authority to license, monitor and manage the Kingdom‘s involvement with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) establishes a system for the application for, and grant of Titles under which Title Holders will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (c) creates a register of Titles and provides for the registration of dealings and interests in Titles; (d) creates offences in respect of activities carried out in breach of the provisions of this Act; (e) provides for the protection of the Marine Environment during the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities, including through the application of the provisions of the EIA Act relating to Environmental Impact Assessment and project permitting; (f) provides for the Kingdom to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area.; Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition; Section 12. Functions of the Authority (1) To ensure the implementation of this Act, the Authority has the following functions, to - 2020 Revised Edition Page 15 (a) develop policies for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Tongan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) manage the designation and allocation of Titles, and maintain records of Titles granted and the blocks or cells of seabed to which they relate; (c) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to Applications, Titles, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (d) conduct due diligence enquiry into Applicant Prospectors, Licensees or Sponsored Parties; (e) receive and evaluate Applications to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities under the Kingdom‘s control or sponsorship; (f) review or obtain a review of Environmental Impact Assessments for Seabed Mineral Activities required under this Act and the EIA Act; (g) recommend to Cabinet whether or not Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted, and on what terms; (h) prepare Prospecting Permits, Licences and Sponsorship Certificates; (i) receive and assess reporting documents from Title Holders; (j) monitor the performance and impact of Seabed Mineral Activities, and compliance by Title Holders with the terms of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act, and the relevant Title; (k) monitor the continuing validity of the terms of a Title; (l) effect the amendment of the terms of a Title where expedient, and in accordance with this Act; (m) enforce sanctions for non-compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or a Title; (n) require and review relevant reports and information from Title Holders, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) share information and consult about Seabed Mineral Activities with the general public as appropriate; (p) publish and submit to Parliament an annual report of Seabed Mineral Activities not later than ninety days after the end of each calendar year; (q) provide technical assistance to other Government agencies of the Kingdom in all matters relevant to Seabed Minerals; (r) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisation in accordance with the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea to facilitate the lawful conduct of Seabed Minerals Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment; (s) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, Page 16 2020 Revised Edition scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (2) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-section (1)(s) or (t), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as the Minister may determine, in consultation with the Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (3) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority or Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act.; Section 19. Monitoring The Authority will monitor and verify Title Holders’ performance and adherence to this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and Title, and any conditions arising from an Environmental Impact Assessment where required, with particular regard to progress with Seabed Mineral Activities, and the impacts of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment, other sea users, bordering States, or the people of the Kingdom.; Section 21. Delegation of Powers (1) In performing its functions the Authority shall seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, at all times where such advice is required and is reasonably available. (2) The Authority, may appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (3) The Authority may in particular appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose as Inspectors, to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring and compliance function. (4) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-sections (2) or (3), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as it may determine, in consultation with Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (5) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority and Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to delegate its other powers, or its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act. Page 20 2020 Revised Edition; Section 38. Adherence to laws and rules (1) Any person engaging in Seabed Mineral Activities under a Title is required, inter alia, to - (a) adhere to the provisions in each case in force from time to time; of - (i) the Marine Pollution Prevention Act 2002; (ii) the EIA Act and any regulations made under it, including but not limited to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2010; (iii) the Environment Management Act 2010; (iv) this Act, and Regulations made under this Act; (v) the terms and conditions of the Title permitting the Seabed Mineral Activities; (vi) any environmental conditions arising from the Environmental Impact Assessment process. (2) Any Sponsored Party engaging in Seabed Mineral Activities is required to adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA, this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and the terms of any Sponsorship Certificate issued under Part 7 of this Act.; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 42. Prospecting Permit Application For an application for a Prospecting Permit to have been properly made, for the purposes of section 41 to this Act, the application shall be made to the Authority in writing at least six months before the proposed commencement date of the Prospecting, and shall contain - (a) the cruise name and number; (b) the name, nationality and address, contact details, and, where relevant evidence of incorporation or registration, of the Applicant, and any other collaborators and participants; (c) the name, nationality, address, contact details and certificate of the requisite skills of the officer in charge of the proposed Prospecting activities; (d) the co-ordinates and charts of the area or areas within which the proposed Prospecting is to be conducted; Page 30 2020 Revised Edition (e) a general description of the nature and objectives of the proposed Prospecting activities, including the methods and technology to be used, the proposed date of commencement and approximate duration, and the proposed use of the data collected, including any plans to make the research results internationally available; (f) the details of the methods, the equipment, and any installations to be used; (g) a preliminary assessment of likely impact on the Marine Environment of the proposed Prospecting; (h) the details of any intended ports of call; (i) modalities of the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the Prospecting activities; and (j) the expected dates and method of submission to the Kingdom of a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results.; Section 51. Content of an Application for a Licence Applications for a Licence shall contain - (a) evidence as to the matters required under section 52 of this Act; (b) the coordinates of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (c) any feasibility or other studies previously conducted by the Applicant in relation to the potential of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (d) a preliminary assessment of the possible impact on the Environment of the proposed Activities that are the subject of the Licence Application, and a proposal for oceanographic and environmental baseline studies and mitigation strategies for the protection of the Marine Environment and prevention of pollution; (e) a proposed Exploration or Mining work plan, covering the life of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities (including the closure of operations), and including a description of the technology and processes to be used, a time schedule and estimated annual expenditures; (f) a financing plan; (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom and their participation in matters pertaining to the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities to be conducted under Licence, and an employment strategy for local workers; (i) a public engagement and information plan; (j) the Applicant‘s plan for responding to any Incidents; Page 34 2020 Revised Edition (k) the prescribed fees; and (l) any further matters that are prescribed by Regulations.; Section 62. Terms of Licence When a decision has been made under section 50 to issue a Licence- (a) the Authority will in pursuance with prescribed procedures provide the Licensee with a draft Licence based on- (i) the requirements of this Act; (ii) the prescribed format; and (iii) the content of the Application, for the Licensee to check and confirm its ability and willingness to be bound by its terms, before it is formally issued by the Authority, in accordance with section 54 of this Act; (b) the Licence shall be granted on the terms and conditions prescribed and any additional terms as may be agreed between the Authority and the Applicant provided these do not conflict with the Act and the prescribed terms, and subject to the approval of Cabinet; 2020 Revised Edition Page 37 (c) the Licence will specify the Seabed Minerals in respect of which it is granted; (d) each Licence will include a detailed approved Exploration or Mining work plan in the prescribed format, including time schedules, and specified annual expenditure requirements; and (e) the Licence may require an Environmental Impact Assessment or other studies to be conducted and reported upon by the Licensee before particular Seabed Mineral Activities can commence.; Section 63. Review of Licences (1) A joint review and amendment of each Licence work plan, anticipated annual expenditure, and time schedule by the Authority- (a) will be performed after completion of any Environmental Impact assessment conducted after the date of issue of the Licence; and (b) may be performed periodically at the request of the Licensee or the Authority upon material new information coming to the attention of the Licensee or the Authority. (2) The Licensee may be required to submit additional data for the purposes of such a review. (3) The review shall be conducted in accordance with any prescribed procedures, or procedures provided by the Licence. (4) The Authority shall obtain the consent of Cabinet, before a Mining Licence is varied in a material particular.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 96. Application for Marine Scientific Research For an application for consent to conduct Marine Scientific Research to have been properly made, for the purposes of section 97 to this Act, the application shall be made to the Authority in writing at least six months before the proposed commencement date of the Marine Scientific Research project, and shall contain - (a) the cruise name and number; (b) the name, nationality, contact details and address of the sponsoring institution, the scientist in charge of the project, and any other collaborators and participants; (c) the co-ordinates and charts of the broad area or areas within which the project is to be conducted; (d) a general description of the nature and objectives of the project, including the proposed date of commencement and its approximate duration, and the proposed use of the data collected, including any plans to make the research results internationally available; (e) the details of the methods, the equipment, and any installations to be used; (f) a preliminary assessment of likely impact on the Marine Environment of the proposed project; Page 54 2020 Revised Edition (g) the details of any intended ports of call; (h) modalities of the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; and (i) the expected dates and method of submission to the Kingdom of a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results.; Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition; Section 102. Environmental conditions arising from Environmental Impact Assessment The terms of any environmental conditions arising from an Environmental Impact Assessment conducted in compliance with the EIA Act, shall be adopted as part of the terms and conditions of any Title held under this Act.; Section 123. Regulations and Ministerial Orders The Minister may, with the consent of Cabinet, make Regulations — (a) prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed under this Act; (b) generally for carrying this Act into effect; (c) without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following matters - (i) the gridding, mapping and allocation of blocks, cells and Licence Areas; (ii) classifying particular aspects of work relating to Seabed Minerals as a Major Project under the EIA Act, or absolutely prohibited due to unacceptable anticipated harm to the Marine Environment; (iii) requisite content, format, consultation processes, independent verification, and timeframe for an Environmental Impact Assessment and the establishment of environmental baseline data for Seabed Mineral Activities; (iv) prescribe further rules or processes pertaining to the handling by the Authority of conflicting Applications for the same Title pertaining to the same area; (v) environment management plans, and provision for areas of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf that have features that require a location-specific approach; (vi) prescribing the format, content, timeframe or processes for any Applications, reports or other data or information required under this Act; (vii) matters relating to the processes to be undertaken and the factors to be taken into account by the Authority in deciding whether or not to grant, review, vary, suspend, or revoke a Title; (viii) the terms of and a model version of a Title; (ix) the fiscal regime to be applied to Seabed Mineral Activities; Page 64 2020 Revised Edition (x) the operation of the Seabed Minerals Fund; (xi) provisions for post-Mining monitoring or other requirements relating to the closure of Seabed Mining Activities; (xii) information-handling for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (xiii) the holding of inquiries into accidents or other incidents causing harm to the Environment or human health and safety occurring in the course of any Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; (xiv) Enforcement Orders and other sanctions, and powers connected with the investigation and administration of such Orders and other sanctions; (xv) providing that any prescribed breach of Regulations shall be an offence, and affording any defences available to any such offence; (xvi) the criminal penalty payable for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations, which shall not exceed $500,000; (xvii) a scheme of administrative penalties in lieu of a criminal penalty for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations and the amount of administrative penalties payable, which penalties shall not exceed half of the applicable maximum criminal penalty; (xviii) further matters in relation to Prospecting Permits; (xix) further matters in relation to Exploration and Mining Licences; (xx) the prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (xxi) further matters in relation to Sponsorship Certificate or agreements; (xxii) that a Licensee shall be required to pay a Licence fee, the amount or manner of determining the Licence fee, and the times and manner of payment; or (xxiii) matters in relation to Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction.; Section 125. Consequential Amendments (1) The Minerals Act is amended by repealing the definition of “land” in section 2. (2) In respect of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act - (a) Seabed Mineral Mining, as defined by this Act, shall be deemed a ‘Major Project’ for the purposes of the EIA Act, and is hereby added to the Schedule to that Act; (b) Seabed Mineral Exploration, as defined by this Act, which upon preliminary assessment by the Minister of the Crown charged by the Prime Minister to have responsibility for the Environment is considered likely to cause Serious Harm to the Environment shall be deemed a ‘Major Project’ for the purposes of the EIA Act, and is hereby added to the Schedule to that Act. Page 66 2020 Revised Edition
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.100. Purpose.; Section 970.202. Statement of technological experience and capabilities.; Section 970.203. Exploration plan.; Section 970.204. Environmental and use conflict analysis.; Section 970.522. Monitoring requirements. Each exploration license must require the licensee:; Section 970.602. Diligent exploration.; Section 970.700. General. Congress, in authorizing the exploration for hard mineral resources under the Act, also enacted provisions relating to the protection of the marine environment from the effects of exploration activities. For example, before the Administrator may issue a license, pursuant to section 105(a)(4) of the Act he must find that the exploration proposed in an application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse effect on the quality of the environment. Also, the Act requires in section 109(b) that each license issued by the Administrator must contain such terms, conditions and restrictions which prescribe the actions the licensee must take in the conduct of exploration activities to assure protection of the environment. Furthermore, the Act in section 105(c)(1)(B) provides for the modification by the Administrator of any term, condition or restriction if relevant data and other information indicates that modification is required to protect the quality of the environment. In addition, section 114 of the Act specifies that each license issued under the Act must require the licensee to monitor the environmental effects of the exploration activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator, and to submit such information as the Administrator finds to be necessary and appropriate to assess environmental impacts and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse environmental effects.; Section 970.701. Significant adverse environmental effects.; Section 970.702. Monitoring and mitigation of environmental effects.
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.202. Statement of technological experience and capabilities.; Section 971.203. Commercial recovery plan.; Section 971.204. Environmental and use conflict analysis.; Section 971.212. Public notice, hearing and comment.; Section 971.214. Consolidated license and permit procedures.; Section 971.406. Environmental effects. Before issuing or transferring a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator must find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse environmental effect, taking into account the analyses and information in any applicable EIS and any TCRs associated with the permit. This finding also will be based upon the requirements in subpart F. However, as also noted in subpart F, if a determination on this question cannot be made on the basis of available information, and it is found that irreparable harm will not occur during a period when an approved monitoring program is undertaken to further examine the significant adverse environmental effect issue, a permit may be granted, subject to modification or suspension and, if necessary and appropriate, revocation pursuant to § 971.417(a), or subject to emergency suspension pursuant to; Section 971.424. Monitoring requirements. Each commercial recovery permit will require the permittee:; Section 971.500. General. Several provisions in the Act relate to appropriate mining techniques or mining efficiency. These raise what could be characterized as resource development issues. In particular, section 103(a)(2)(C) requires a resource assessment to be provided with the recovery plan. Section 103(a)(2)(D) of the Act provides that the applicant will select the size and location of the area of a recovery plan, which will be approved unless the Administrator finds that the area is not a “logical mining unit” or the commercial recovery activities in the proposed site would result in a significant adverse environmental effect which cannot be avoided by the imposition of reasonable restrictions. Also, pursuant to section 108 of the Act, the applicant's recovery plan and the TCRs of each permit must be designed to ensure diligent development. In addition, for the purpose of conservation of natural resources, section 110 of the Act provides that each permit is to contain, as needed, terms, conditions, and restrictions which have due regard for the prevention of waste and the future opportunity for the commercial recovery of the unrecovered balance of the resources.; Section 971.501. Resource assessment, recovery plan, and logical mining unit.; Section 971.503. Diligent commercial recovery.; Section 971.600. General. The Act contains several provisions which relate to environmental protection. For example, section 105(a)(4) requires that, before the Administrator may issue a commercial recovery permit, he must find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse environmental effect. In addition, each permit issued must contain TCRs which prescribe actions the permittee must take in the conduct of commercial recovery activities to assure protection of the environment (section 109(b)). The Act also provides for modification by the Administrator of any TCR if relevant data and information indicate that modification is required to protect the quality of the environment (section 105(c)(1)(B)). The Administrator also may order an immediate suspension or modification of activities (section 106(c)), or require use of best available technologies (section 109(b)), to prevent a significant adverse environmental effect. Furthermore, each permit issued under the Act must require the permittee to monitor the environmental effects of commercial recovery activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator, and to submit information the Administrator finds necessary and appropriate to assess environmental effects and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse effects (section 114).; Section 971.601. Environmental requirements. Before issuing a permit for the commercial recovery of deep seabed hard mineral resources, the Administrator must find that:; Section 971.602. Significant adverse environmental effects.; Section 971.603. At-sea monitoring.; Section 971.604. Best available technologies (BAT) and mitigation.; Section 971.606. Onshore information.; Section 971.801. Records to be maintained and information to be submitted by licensees and. permittees. (a); Section 971.1000. General.; Section 971.1001. Assessment procedure.; Section 971.1005. Observers.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1401. Congressional findings and declaration of purpose.; Section 1413. License and permit applications, review, and certification.; Section 1415. License and permit terms, conditions, and restrictions; issuance and transfer of licenses and permits.; Section 1419. Protection of the environment.; Section 1424. Monitoring of activities of licensees and permittees.; Section 1428. Reciprocating states.; Section 1442. Effect of international agreement.; Section 1461. Prohibited acts.; Section 1462. Civil penalties.

marine_scientific_research (84)

Marine scientific research in the Area and dissemination of results.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 31. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 17
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 44. Révision
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第1条用语和范围; 第3条探矿通知; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Annex I. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 17
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 42. Révision
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第1条用语和范围; 第3条探矿通知; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Annex I. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 17
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 5. Protection et préservation du milieu marin pendant la prospection; Article 44. Révision
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第1条用语和范围; 第3条探矿通知; 第5条在探矿过程中保护和保全海洋环境; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 1. Use of terms and scope; Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 5. Protection and preservation of the marine environment during prospecting; Annex 1. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 157
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.; Section 48. Other sea users. Nothing in this Act authorises the unlawful interference with the freedom of the high seas or the conduct of Marine Scientific Research by other persons or nations under the general principles of international law.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 37. Prohibited Activities (1) No person may engage in any Seabed Mineral Activities unless, and only insofar as, authorised to do so under a Title issued under this Act. (2) The prohibitions of sub-section (1) shall not apply to Marine Scientific Research. (3) Any person who contravenes sub-section (1) commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 and any Seabed Minerals or other products, or proceeds obtained as a result of actions prohibited by sub-section (1) shall be forfeited to the Crown. Page 26 2020 Revised Edition; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 94. The Seabed Minerals Fund (1) There shall be established under the control and management of the Ministry responsible for finance a fund to be called the Seabed Minerals Fund into which there shall be paid any sums paid to the Authority under sections 2020 Revised Edition Page 53 91(1),(2) and (4) and 93, excepting any funds allocated by the Treasury to be used directly for the purposes of covering the costs of establishing the Authority and performing its functions under this Act. (2) The Seabed Minerals Fund is established with the objective to ensure the wise management of the Seabed Minerals resources for the benefit of both current and future generations. (3) The rules for the operation and management of the Seabed Minerals Fund shall be laid down by separate Act or by Regulations made under this Act.; Section 95. Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom’s national jurisdiction Marine Scientific Research may not be carried out within an area of the Kingdom‘s Exclusive Economic Zone or upon the Kingdom‘s Continental Shelf by any person, unless that person has first - (a) properly applied for the Kingdom‘s consent in accordance with this Act; and (b) received consent to that application for consent, or not received a denial of consent within six months of the date of that application for consent.; Section 96. Application for Marine Scientific Research For an application for consent to conduct Marine Scientific Research to have been properly made, for the purposes of section 97 to this Act, the application shall be made to the Authority in writing at least six months before the proposed commencement date of the Marine Scientific Research project, and shall contain - (a) the cruise name and number; (b) the name, nationality, contact details and address of the sponsoring institution, the scientist in charge of the project, and any other collaborators and participants; (c) the co-ordinates and charts of the broad area or areas within which the project is to be conducted; (d) a general description of the nature and objectives of the project, including the proposed date of commencement and its approximate duration, and the proposed use of the data collected, including any plans to make the research results internationally available; (e) the details of the methods, the equipment, and any installations to be used; (f) a preliminary assessment of likely impact on the Marine Environment of the proposed project; Page 54 2020 Revised Edition (g) the details of any intended ports of call; (h) modalities of the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; and (i) the expected dates and method of submission to the Kingdom of a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results.; Section 97. Consent to Marine Scientific Research Unless there are reasonable grounds for a denial of consent in accordance with section 98 of this Act, the Authority shall provide its consent to a Marine Scientific Project as soon as reasonably practicable, and no later than six months after receipt of an application containing the information required by section 96.; Section 98. Grounds for denial of consent to Marine Scientific Research The Authority may deny consent to an application to conduct Marine Scientific Research for any reason whatsoever including if - (a) the Authority reasonably considers that - (i) the proposed Marine Scientific Research is of direct significance to the exploration and Mining of the natural resources of the Kingdom, whether living or non-living; (ii) the information supplied pursuant to section 96 of this Act is inaccurate; or (iii) the person applying to conduct Marine Scientific Research already has an overdue outstanding obligation to the Kingdom from a prior Marine Scientific Research project; or (b) the proposed Marine Scientific Research involves – (i) drilling into the Continental Shelf; (ii) the use of explosives; (iii) the introduction of harmful substances into the Marine Environment; (iv) the construction, operation or use of artificial islands, installations or structures (as referred to in Articles 60 and 80 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea); or (v) an unacceptable risk to the Marine Environment.; Section 99. Nature of Marine Scientific Research consent Marine Scientific Research – (a) does not entail any exclusive rights of access to the seabed or water column, and does not permit extraction of Seabed Minerals; 2020 Revised Edition Page 55 (b) does not constitute the legal basis for any claim to any part of the Marine Environment or its resources; and (c) shall cease within a particular area upon written notice being given by the Authority.; Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition; Section 109. Nothing under this Act to authorise unnecessary interference with other sea users (1) A Title Holder shall carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities in such a way that will not interfere unreasonably with the exercise of the freedom of the high seas as reflected in article 87 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. (2) A Title Holder, or person conducting Marine Scientific Research contravenes this section if – (a) their performance of Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, interferes with – (i) navigation; (ii) fishing; (iii) submarine cabling; (iv) Marine Scientific Research; (v) the conservation of the resources of the sea or the seabed; or (vi) any other activities that are lawfully being carried out; and (b) that interference is greater than is necessary for the reasonable exercise of the rights or performance of the person's duties under the Title. (2) Any person who contravenes this section commits an offence. (3) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000. (4) Strict liability applies to an offence under this section.; Section 110. Employees Any Title Holder or person conducting Marine Scientific Research shall at all times observe and comply with any prevailing laws, rules or procedures relating to employment, including discrimination in employment, occupational health and safety, labour relations, social security, employment security, safety at sea, and living conditions of workers on-site. 2020 Revised Edition Page 59; Section 111. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature Any object of an archaeological or historical nature found by any Title Holder or person conducting Marine Scientific Research within the jurisdiction or control of the Kingdom shall be reported to the Authority and treated in accordance with its instructions, and shall be safeguarded pending receipt of those instructions.; Section 123. Regulations and Ministerial Orders The Minister may, with the consent of Cabinet, make Regulations — (a) prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed under this Act; (b) generally for carrying this Act into effect; (c) without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following matters - (i) the gridding, mapping and allocation of blocks, cells and Licence Areas; (ii) classifying particular aspects of work relating to Seabed Minerals as a Major Project under the EIA Act, or absolutely prohibited due to unacceptable anticipated harm to the Marine Environment; (iii) requisite content, format, consultation processes, independent verification, and timeframe for an Environmental Impact Assessment and the establishment of environmental baseline data for Seabed Mineral Activities; (iv) prescribe further rules or processes pertaining to the handling by the Authority of conflicting Applications for the same Title pertaining to the same area; (v) environment management plans, and provision for areas of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf that have features that require a location-specific approach; (vi) prescribing the format, content, timeframe or processes for any Applications, reports or other data or information required under this Act; (vii) matters relating to the processes to be undertaken and the factors to be taken into account by the Authority in deciding whether or not to grant, review, vary, suspend, or revoke a Title; (viii) the terms of and a model version of a Title; (ix) the fiscal regime to be applied to Seabed Mineral Activities; Page 64 2020 Revised Edition (x) the operation of the Seabed Minerals Fund; (xi) provisions for post-Mining monitoring or other requirements relating to the closure of Seabed Mining Activities; (xii) information-handling for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (xiii) the holding of inquiries into accidents or other incidents causing harm to the Environment or human health and safety occurring in the course of any Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; (xiv) Enforcement Orders and other sanctions, and powers connected with the investigation and administration of such Orders and other sanctions; (xv) providing that any prescribed breach of Regulations shall be an offence, and affording any defences available to any such offence; (xvi) the criminal penalty payable for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations, which shall not exceed $500,000; (xvii) a scheme of administrative penalties in lieu of a criminal penalty for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations and the amount of administrative penalties payable, which penalties shall not exceed half of the applicable maximum criminal penalty; (xviii) further matters in relation to Prospecting Permits; (xix) further matters in relation to Exploration and Mining Licences; (xx) the prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (xxi) further matters in relation to Sponsorship Certificate or agreements; (xxii) that a Licensee shall be required to pay a Licence fee, the amount or manner of determining the Licence fee, and the times and manner of payment; or (xxiii) matters in relation to Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction.
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 143. Recherche scientifique marine; Article 155. Conférence de révision
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 143. Marine scientific research; Article 155. The Review Conference

technology_transfer_and_capacity (140)

Transfer of technology and scientific knowledge, training, and capacity-building, especially for developing States.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 27. Commencement of Commercial Production; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans 1. A Contractor shall maintain:; Section 8. Training commitment; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights. ] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States ].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 27. Commencement of Commercial Production; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans; Section 8. Training commitment; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 37 bis. Transfer of Technology [1. The Contractor shall cooperate fully and effectively with the Authority for the purpose of the Authority, the Enterprise or its joint venture, a developing State or States acquiring deep seabed mining technology on fair and reasonable commercial terms and conditions, consistent with the effective protection of intellectual property rights.] [1. Alt. The Contractor shall include in the Plan of Work undertakings on transfer of technology pursuant to article 144 of the Convention and Section 5 of the Annex to the Agreement.; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 44. General Obligations; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex V. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan An Emergency Response and Contingency Plan must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 29. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 приложения III Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第3条探矿通知; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Annex I. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le contractant. 8.3 Le contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 27. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 Приложения III Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第3条探矿通知; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 27. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Annex I. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting; Annex III. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the ... day of ... between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and ... represented by ... (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 4; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 17; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 3. Notification de prospection; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 29. Подготовка кадров Во исполнение статьи 15 приложения III к Конвенции к каждому контракту прилагается практическая программа подготовки персонала Органа и развивающихся государств, составленная контрактором в сотрудничестве с Органом и поручившимся государством (государствами). Программы подготовки ориентированы на обучение навыкам разведки и предусматривают всестороннее участие такого персонала во всех мероприятиях, охватываемых контрактом. По взаимному согласию такие программы подготовки могут при необходимости периодически пересматриваться и дорабатываться.; Раздел 8. Подготовка кадров
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第3条探矿通知; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Annex 1. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting; Annex 3. Contract for exploration THIS CONTRACT made the day of between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and represented by (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: Incorporation of clauses A. The standard clauses set out in annex 4 to the Regulations on Prospecting and Exploration for Polymetallic Sulphides in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. Exploration area B. For the purposes of this contract, the “exploration area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for exploration, defined by the coordinates listed in; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as; Section 10. Annual reports 10.1 The Contractor shall, within 90 days of the end of each calendar year, submit a report to the Secretary-General in such format as may be recommended from time to time by the Legal and Technical Commission covering its programme of activities in the exploration area and containing, as applicable, information in sufficient detail on:
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 157
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 3; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 157; Paragraph 162; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 234; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 40
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 24. Specific conditions of sponsorship. (1) The Authority may pursuant to regulation 14(5) recommend to the Cabinet that specific conditions be included in a Sponsorship Agreement as considered necessary and appropriate to promote compliance with the Act and its objectives, taking into account: (a) the Republic’s obligation to take all necessary and reasonably appropriate measures to secure effective compliance of a Sponsored Party pursuant to article 139(2) of the UNCLOS; (b) the Republic’s obligation to assist the ISA to ensure such compliance pursuant to article 153(3) of the UNCLOS; the monitoring and enforcement capacity of the ISA at the time of the application; and (c) (d) the results and findings from the assessment of the Qualification Criteria. (2) Specific conditions may be included for the purpose of requiring the Sponsored Party to, for example: (a) undertake specific monitoring or reporting on its Seabed Mineral Activities at specified intervals, including information to be supplied to the Authority; (b) taking out a certain category of insurance; (c) undertake specific studies, investigations or analysis; (d) make specific information or records available for audit or verification by the Authority or by an approved expert; (e) align with a specific internationally accepted process standard; (f) provide a Security Deposit pursuant to Section 52 of the Act and regulation 26 to manage any risk and liability exposures; (g) be vicariously liable for any environmental breaches caused by its employees; (h) implement specified measures relating to the health, safety and welfare of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities and not regulated by any other competent authority, body or organisation; (i) implement specified measures which may include specified Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes to deal with the potential risks and effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (j) undertake specific education and awareness programmes in the Republic relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; (k) provide specific reporting on or compliance with the Qualification Criteria prior to the commencement of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (l) pay a specified penalty if the Sponsored Party does not comply with a condition of the Sponsorship Agreement. (3) The Authority shall consider, where applicable, whether the specific conditions recommended under this regulation are reasonably practicable in relation to the matter the condition is intended to address, and compliance with the condition can be monitored effectively by the Authority and the Sponsored Party. (4) The Authority may recommend more stringent conditions than those of the relevant Rules of the ISA pursuant to annex III, article 21(3) of the UNCLOS. (5) In formulating any specific conditions, the Authority may seek advice from relevant Departments or an approved expert.; Section 25. Security Deposit. (1) In determining the requirement for any Security Deposit under Section 52 of the Act, the Authority shall consider the following factors: (a) the nature, stage, scale and likely impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (b) the Sponsored Party’s Environmental Performance record; (c) the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party and its access to financial resources, including the Sponsored Party’s capacity to respond to incidents; (d) the availability of relevant market instruments, such as insurance; (e) the Sponsored Party’s capacity to undertake any post closure monitoring; (f) the technical and economic feasibility of rectifying any damage that may be caused to the marine environment; and (g) the type and quantum of any guarantee, deposit or bond that a Sponsored Party is required to deposit with the ISA for an equivalent purpose. (2) The terms of any Security Deposit shall provide: (a) a date by which the deposit shall be made, which may be before the Seabed Mineral Activities commence; (b) details of the amount and form of security to be given; (c) that the amount of the security is to be reviewed annually and where necessary adjusted; (d) for the terms of forfeiture, repayment or release of all or part of the security; and (e) that the security may be varied, cancelled, or renewed by agreement between the Sponsored Party and the Authority. (3) Any Security Deposit shall be held by the Department responsible for finance in accordance with its policy and procedures, and in the case of cash, held in a secured interest-bearing account with a financial institution with a long-term international credit rating of AA or higher. (4) Any Security Deposit may be provided by way of instalments over a specified period. (5) Where a Sponsored Party is required to lodge a Security Deposit with the Republic prior to the commencement of Seabed Mineral Activities, the Sponsored Party may not commence activities until it has provided the required deposit in accordance with the conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement. (6) The terms of any Security Deposit may require that the deposit, or a portion of it, continues for a specified period after sponsorship is terminated to the extent that the Authority considers it may be required to fulfil any obligations of the Sponsored Party under the Act. (7) The Authority may appoint an independent assessor to advise on the appropriate amount of any Security Deposit under this regulation. (8) The application of this regulation is subject to the Applicable Guideline issued by the Authority. (9) The provision of a Security Deposit does not limit the liability of the Sponsored Party under the Act or an ISA contract.; Section 41. (a). the relevant qualifications and experience of persons appointed as observers by the Authority; (b) the training, supervision and direction of observers; (c) a code of conduct for observers; (d) the reporting requirements for observers, including the frequency and content of such reporting; and (e) cooperation with ISA inspectors, or other authorised representatives of the ISA. Transfer of observers of the Authority A Sponsored Party shall, to the extent practicable, comply with any reasonable request of the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority to:; Section 59. Protection of confidential information. (1) The Authority through the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of information received by the Authority pursuant to Section 33 of the Act. (2) The Authority shall establish and maintain procedures governing the classification and handling of information by the Board and employees of the Authority, Approved Experts or consultants engaged by the Authority, and any person performing a function or exercising a power under the Act. (3) The procedures shall include: (a) the storage and maintenance of information in secure facilities, the development of security procedures to prevent unauthorised access to or removal of information and the development of procedures to ensure the safe and secure dissemination of information; (b) the development and maintenance of a classification, log, and inventory system of all written information received, including its type and source and the routing from the time of receipt until final disposition; and (c) the training of persons who have access to information. (4) A person who is authorised under the Act and these Regulations to access information shall not disclose such information except as permitted under the Act and these Regulations. (5) The Authority shall require any person who is authorised to access information to make a written declaration witnessed by the Chief Executive Officer to the effect that the person authorised to access the information: (a) acknowledges their legal obligation under Section 33 of the Act and these Regulations with respect to the non-disclosure of information; (b) agrees to comply with the applicable procedures established to ensure the confidentiality of such information; and (c) agrees to use the data for the purpose for which it was disclosed or, if no purpose was stated, for the effective administration of the Act and these Regulations and to ensure the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities consistent with enactments. (6) The Board and staff of the Authority shall protect the confidentiality of information and shall not disclose or use, even after the termination of their functions with the Authority, any: (a) trade secret, or other commercially sensitive information including technical or proprietary information regarding equipment, process or innovations transferred to the Authority; or (b) other information coming to their knowledge by reason of their connection with the Authority. (7) A person who contravenes subregulations (4) or (6), commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding $50,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 5 years, or both.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 5. Scope of this Act. (1) The objectives of this Act are: (a) to establish a legal framework for the sponsorship, and for the effective control, by Nauru of contractors to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (b) to provide that Seabed Mineral Activities under Nauru’s sponsorship in the Area must be carried out under Nauru’s effective control in accordance with best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including Nauru’s responsibilities under the UNCLOS and specifically Nauru’s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (c) to promote transparency in decision making on matters concerning Nauru’s management of Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) to provide a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory environment for investors in Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) to secure optimum benefits, long term-economic growth and sustainable development for Nauru from the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; (f) to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations. (2) In order to achieve its objectives, this Act inter alia: (a) creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Authority to licence, monitor and manage Nauru’s involvement with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) establishes a system for Sponsorship Applications, and the grant of Sponsorships Certificates under which Sponsored Parties will be authorised to engage in Seabed Mineral Activities under specific and enforceable conditions; (c) provides for Nauru to receive payments for its Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities, and for a ring-fenced Seabed Minerals Fund for the responsible long-term management of any funds raised by Nauru from Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) This Act is made on the basis that the Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity will be developed in an appropriate and timely manner for the purpose of securing that Seabed Mineral Activities will comply with relevant standards and obligations of international law.; Section 8. Composition of the Authority. (1) The Authority consists of the following or their nominees who shall serve in an ex officio capacity: (a) Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade as the Chairperson and head of the Authority; (b) Chief Secretary; (c) Secretary for Justice and Border Control; (d) Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Environment; and (e) Secretary for Cabinet who shall serve as secretary for the Authority. (2) The Authority may appoint a Chief Executive Officer and other staff as it determines expedient for the implementation of this Act, on terms and conditions of service as the Authority may determine with the approval of Cabinet.; Section 22. Content of a sponsorship application. A Sponsorship Application must be made in writing to the Authority and must: (a) provide evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; and (b) include: (i) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) written undertakings by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (A) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (B) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (C) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship by Nauru; (c) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) an indication of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed: (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease, bond or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (f) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from Nauru; (g) a capacity building programme for the training of citizens of Nauru; (h) the application fee required under this Act; (i) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA and international law; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (j) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 23. Qualification criteria. (1) The Authority shall review any Sponsorship Application received, and may recommend to Cabinet, the issue of a Sponsorship Certificate if it is satisfied that: (a) the undertakings required by section 22 have been given; (b) the Qualification Criteria are met; and (c) that the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) will not result in irreparable harm to any community, cultural practice or industry in Nauru; and (ii) would be generally in the public interest, taking into account the potential for capacity-building, local employment and the long-term benefit to Nauru. (2) The Qualification Criteria are that: (a) the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in Nauru; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (A) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (B) cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has paid any applicable fees; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect:; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 15. Requirements of the Sponsorship Application. A Sponsorship Application under Section 14(1) shall comply with the following requirements: (a) provide a duly completed application form; (b) provide documentary evidence to demonstrate that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; (c) provide a copy of the application for the approval of a plan of work to obtain a corresponding contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) provide a written undertaking to the Republic by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) together with its relevant Associates and Affiliates shall fully comply with the obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warrants that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship of the Republic; (e) provide a written report or any other form of record containing the studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities is intended to be conducted; (f) provide a written report or any other form of report conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (g) provide details of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed insurance, contingency funding or other methods proposed to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an incident; (h) provide the name, address and email and telephone contact or any other details of any Affiliate or Associate and a list of key personnel required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities and an indication if any of these are to be recruited from the Republic; (i) where applicable, provide a projection based on the current project details of the Seabed Mineral recovery payment and other amounts payable to the Republic; (j) provide a proposal for capacity building programme for the training of citizens of the Republic; (k) the requirements of this Act and any prescribed requirements; (l) provide a statement as to whether the Sponsored Applicant, its Associates, Affiliates or any of their directors and officers has previously been found on credible evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities; (ii) breached the relevant Rules of the ISA, any written law or applicable international law; (iii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in the Republic or another jurisdiction; or (iv) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; and (m) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 18. Recommendation to the Cabinet. (1) The Authority having considered and determined a sponsorship application shall only recommend to the Cabinet, the issuance of a Sponsorship Certificate, where it is satisfied that: (a) the Sponsorship Application complies with the requirements of this Act and the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) the undertaking required by Section 15(d) has been given; (c) the Qualification Criteria are met; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) will not result in irreparable harm to any community, cultural practice or industry in the Republic; (ii) would be generally in the national interest, taking into account the potential for capacity-building, local employment and the long-term benefit to the Republic; and (iii) are consistent with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) Where the ISA has not completed the elaboration or adoption of any Rules of the ISA applicable to the Sponsored Application or Sponsorship Applicant, the Authority shall consider: (a) any draft or provisionally adopted relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) applicable provisions contained in the UNCLOS on the basis of the norms contained in the UNCLOS; and (c) The terms and principles contained in the 1994 Agreement, when reviewing such application for the purposes of making a recommendation to the Cabinet.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 52. Security Deposit. (1) The Authority may after an Exploitation contract has been granted by the ISA to the Sponsored Party, and prior to Exploitation commencing, require a Sponsored Party to provide a Security Deposit as a guarantee of performance of its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The form and value of any such security required, and the terms upon which it will be held, shall be specified as a condition in a Sponsorship Agreement made under Section 25 and take into account the type and quantum of any security or guarantee that the Sponsored Party is also required to deposit with the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) A security deposited in accordance with this Section may be used by the Authority to: (a) take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Sponsored Party fails to fulfil under this Act or under terms of its Sponsorship Agreement; (b) rectify any damage or loss caused as a result of such failure; or (c) satisfy any order of compensation or damages made against the Sponsored Party by a court or tribunal. (4) The Authority may adjust the amount of an original security where there has been a material change in circumstances, including: (a) a change in the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party; or (b) a change in the scope, nature and magnitude of the Seabed Mineral Activities under an ISA Contract.; Section 67. Enactment of the Act in recognition of the development of. Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity This Act is enacted on the basis that the Rules of the ISA and the ISA’s monitoring and enforcement capacity is to be developed in an appropriate and timely manner for the purpose of securing that Seabed Mineral Activities shall comply with relevant standards and obligations of international law.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 51. Content of an Application for a Licence Applications for a Licence shall contain - (a) evidence as to the matters required under section 52 of this Act; (b) the coordinates of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (c) any feasibility or other studies previously conducted by the Applicant in relation to the potential of the area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or Continental Shelf within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted under Licence; (d) a preliminary assessment of the possible impact on the Environment of the proposed Activities that are the subject of the Licence Application, and a proposal for oceanographic and environmental baseline studies and mitigation strategies for the protection of the Marine Environment and prevention of pollution; (e) a proposed Exploration or Mining work plan, covering the life of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities (including the closure of operations), and including a description of the technology and processes to be used, a time schedule and estimated annual expenditures; (f) a financing plan; (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom and their participation in matters pertaining to the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities to be conducted under Licence, and an employment strategy for local workers; (i) a public engagement and information plan; (j) the Applicant‘s plan for responding to any Incidents; Page 34 2020 Revised Edition (k) the prescribed fees; and (l) any further matters that are prescribed by Regulations.; Section 73. Variation, suspension, or revocation of a Licence (1) The Authority may vary, suspend, or revoke any Exploration Licence or Mining Licence under this section— (a) where any of the qualification criteria prescribed under regulations ceases to be met by the Licensee in a material particular; (b) if a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (b) the Marine Environment; (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; or (iii) avoid any situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international or domestic peace and security; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Licensee; (e) in order to secure or reasonably to promote compliance by the Licensee with the Licensee‘s obligations and undertakings under this Act, the Regulations and the Licence; (f) if the Licensee has failed to comply with a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to it; (g) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Licensee, or upon the Licensee ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (h) upon consultation with the Licensee, where the Licensee is prevented for a continuous period exceeding two years from undertaking the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities under the Licence despite taking all reasonable measures to do so, because of an event outside of the Licensee‘s control; Page 42 2020 Revised Edition (i) where no material efforts have been made by the Licensee to undertake the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding two years; (j) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Licensee of - (i) a material undertaking or term or condition of the Licence; (ii) the provisions of this Act or Regulations made under this Act or other laws of the Kingdom; (iii) conditions imposed under the EIA Act; or (iv) requirement of an Order made under this Act, and such breach either cannot be remedied or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice by the Authority; (k) where the relevant Seabed Mineral Activities in the view of Cabinet constitute an unacceptable risk to the Kingdom or are clearly no longer in the interests of the Kingdom due to changes in the circumstances pertaining to the Activities including (without limitation) changes to - (i) the market for Seabed Minerals; (ii) best environmental practice pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; or (iii) the state of technology utilised for Seabed Mineral Activities, as well as the capacity of the Licensee to adapt to the changes in circumstances; (l) where any payment owing under section 75 or any part of this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; or (m) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s prior approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section the Authority, shall unless the decision is made at the Licensee‘s request and on the exact terms of the Licensee‘s request, give to the Licensee at least ninety days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of that proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice or a copy of the notice has been given, and who objects to it, to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe. (3) If the Authority has suspended a Licence, it may by notice require the Licensee to resume its activities and comply with the terms and conditions of the Licence, not later than 90 days after such notice. (4) In lieu of variation, suspension or revocation under sub-sections (1)(a), (b), (c), (e), (f), (i), (j), and (l), the Authority may take any of the administrative 2020 Revised Edition Page 43 actions provided for in section 27 of this Act, or impose upon the Licensee monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $1,000,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm. (5) The Authority shall not execute a decision involving monetary penalties under sub-section (4) until the Licensee has been accorded a reasonable opportunity to exhaust the judicial remedies available to it under the laws of the Kingdom. (6) In the event of termination or expiration of a Licence, the Licensee shall comply with the Regulations and shall remove all installations, plant, equipment and materials in the Licensed Area and shall make the Licensed Area and its surroundings safe so as not to constitute a danger to persons, shipping or to the Marine Environment. (7) Upon effecting a variation of a Licence the Authority shall- (a) prepare an instrument of variation signed by the Minister and the designated representative of the Licensee; (b) register the variation to that Licence in the register of Titles, maintained by the Authority under section 34 of this Act; (c) issue to the Licensee a copy of that instrument of variation; and (d) publish notice of the variation in the Gazette.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 16; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 144. Transfert des techniques; Article 150. Politique générale relative aux activités menées dans la; Article 155. Conférence de révision
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 143. Marine scientific research; Article 144. Transfer of technology; Article 150. Policies relating to activities in the Area; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 163. Organs of the Council; Article 166. The Secretariat; Article 170. The Enterprise; Article 176. Legal status
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1467. Jurisdiction of courts.

developing_states_special_interests (110)

Special interests and needs of developing, land-locked and geographically disadvantaged States.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States ].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies; Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 37. Training Obligations; Regulation 62. Equality of treatment The Council shall, based on the recommendations of the Commission, apply the provisions of this Part on a transparent, uniform and non-discriminatory basis, and shall ensure equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors. [Alt. The Council shall, [based on the recommendation of the Commission], apply the regulations of this Part with the purpose of achieving all objectives of the financial terms of the contract envisaged by the Convention. Particular attention shall be given to the objectives of ensuring the transfer of technology, training and scientific knowledge to developing States; providing incentives for Contractors to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States; and guaranteeing equality of financial treatment and comparable financial obligations for Contractors.]; Regulation 63. [Incentives] [1. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard, provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives[, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis,] to Contractors [to undertake joint arrangements with the Enterprise and developing States and their nationals] to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [1. Alt. The Council may, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission and the Economic Planning Commission in accordance with the applicable Standard to provide for incentives, including Financial Incentives, on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis especially for those from developing States, including small island developing States, to advance the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention.] [2. [Those]/[Any] incentives shall be applied on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis, to further the objectives set out in article 13, paragraph 1, of Annex III to the Convention [including, where applicable, the objective of stimulating the transfer of technology to, and training the personnel of, the Authority and of developing States].] [3. The Council shall ensure that, as a result of the Financial Incentives provided to Contractors, Contractors are not subsidized so as to be given an artificial competitive advantage with respect to other Contractors and/or land-based miners.] [4. Any incentives shall be fully compatible with the policies and principles under regulation 2[, any applicable Standards and shall take into account the Guidelines.]] [5. A Financial Incentives Registry shall be established, maintained and published through the Seabed Mining Register, pursuant to regulation 92.]; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 29. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同所涉所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 27. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le contractant. 8.3 Le contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第17条请求核准保留区工作计划的申请; 第27条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 27. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 29. Formation En application de l’article 15 de l’annexe III de la Convention, chaque contrat comporte en annexe un programme de formation pratique du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, établi par le contractant en coopération avec l’Autorité et le ou les États patronnant la demande. Les programmes sont axés sur la formation à l’exploration et doivent permettre la pleine participation de ce personnel à toutes les activités sur lesquelles porte le contrat. Les programmes de formation peuvent être modifiés et développés de temps à autre, selon que de besoin, par consentement mutuel.; Article 8. Formation 8.1 Conformément au Règlement, avant de commencer l’exploration en vertu du présent contrat, le Contractant soumet pour approbation à l’Autorité des projets de programme de formation du personnel de l’Autorité et d’États en développement, prévoyant notamment la participation dudit personnel à toutes les activités qu’il mène en vertu du présent contrat. 8.2 La portée et le financement du programme de formation sont sujets à négociation entre le Contractant, l’Autorité et l’État ou les États patronnant le Contractant. 8.3 Le Contractant assure la formation conformément au programme de formation du personnel visé expressément à l’article 8.1 du présent contrat approuvé par l’Autorité en application du Règlement; ce programme, qui est révisé et étoffé de temps à autre, devient partie intégrante du présent contrat en tant qu’annexe 3.
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第18条请求核准保留区的工作计划的申请书; 第29条训练《公约》附件三第十五条规定，每一项合同都应以附件方式载有承包者与管理局和担保国合作拟订的训练管理局和发展中国家人员的实际方案。训练方案应着重有关进行勘探的训练，由上述人员充分参与合同包括的所有活动。这些训练方案可不时根据需要通过双方协议予以修改和制订。; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 29. Training Pursuant to article 15 of annex III to the Convention, each contract shall include as a schedule a practical programme for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States and drawn up by the contractor in cooperation with the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. Training programmes shall focus on training in the conduct of exploration, and shall provide for full participation by such personnel in all activities covered by the contract. Such training programmes may be revised and developed from time to time as necessary by mutual agreement.; Section 8. Training 8.1 In accordance with the Regulations, the Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of exploration under this contract, submit to the Authority for approval proposed training programmes for the training of personnel of the Authority and developing States, including the participation of such personnel in all of the Contractor’s activities under this contract. 8.2 The scope and financing of the training programme shall be subject to negotiation between the Contractor, the Authority and the sponsoring State or States. 8.3 The Contractor shall conduct training programmes in accordance with the specific programme for the training of personnel referred to in section 8.1 hereof approved by the Authority in accordance with the Regulations, which programme, as revised and developed from time to time, shall become a part of this contract as
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 154; Paragraph 157; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 3
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 3; Paragraph 150; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 154; Paragraph 156; Paragraph 157; Paragraph 158; Paragraph 159; Paragraph 162; Paragraph 163; Paragraph 3
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 5; Paragraph 9; Paragraph 15; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 140. Intérêt de l’humanité; Article 141. Utilisation de la zone à des fins exclusivement; Article 143. Recherche scientifique marine; Article 144. Transfert des techniques; Article 148. Participation des États en développement aux activités; Article 150. Politique générale relative aux activités menées dans la; Article 151. Politique en matière de production; Article 152. Exercice des pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 155. Conférence de révision; Article 160. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 161. Composition, procédure et vote; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 164. La commission de planification économique; Article 173. Dépenses de l’Autorité
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 140. Benefit of mankind; Article 141. Use of the Area exclusively for peaceful purposes; Article 143. Marine scientific research; Article 144. Transfer of technology; Article 148. Participation of developing States in activities in the Area; Article 150. Policies relating to activities in the Area; Article 151. Production policies; Article 152. Exercise of powers and functions by the Authority; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 161. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 163. Organs of the Council; Article 164. The Economic Planning Commission; Article 173. Expenses of the Authority

peaceful_use_and_general_conduct (16)

Use of the Area exclusively for peaceful purposes and the general conduct of States in relation to the Area.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 2. Principles, approaches and policies
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 141. Utilisation de la zone à des fins exclusivement; Article 143. Recherche scientifique marine; Article 147. Compatibilité des activités menées dans la zone et des; Article 155. Conférence de révision
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 138. General conduct of States in relation to the Area; Article 141. Use of the Area exclusively for peaceful purposes; Article 143. Marine scientific research; Article 147. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Article 155. The Review Conference

protection_of_human_life_and_safety (88)

Protection of human life and installation safety in the conduct of activities in the Area.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities] 1. Inspectors shall:; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Annex VI. Health and Safety Plan and Maritime Security Plan Note: several important provisions of this Annex have currently been placed in the Suspense document and will be incorporated into Standards and Guidelines at a later stage. A Health and Safety Plan 1. The Health and Safety Plan prepared under these Regulations and this Annex must:; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities]; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex VI. Health and Safety Plan and Maritime Security Plan Note: several important provisions of this Annex have currently been placed in the Suspense document and will be incorporated into Standards and Guidelines at a later stage. A Health and Safety Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le Contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés conformément en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout Contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination en matière d’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 21. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination dans l’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 21. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 1. Emploi des termes et champ d’application; Article 23. Examen des demandes par la Commission juridique et technique; Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;; Article 15. Normes de sécurité, d’emploi et de santé 15.1 Le Contractant agit conformément aux règles et normes internationales généralement acceptées qui ont été établies par les organisations internationales compétentes ou par des conférences diplomatiques générales, concernant la protection de la vie humaine en mer et la prévention des abordages, ainsi qu’aux règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter touchant la sécurité en mer. Tout navire utilisé pour mener des activités dans la Zone doit être en possession des certificats valides requis par lesdites règles et normes internationales et délivrés conformément en application de celles-ci. 15.2 Tout Contractant qui se livre à des activités d’exploration en vertu du présent contrat doit observer et respecter les règles, règlements, procédures et directives que l’Autorité pourrait adopter en matière de protection contre la discrimination dans l’emploi, de prévention des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles, de relations professionnelles, de sécurité sociale, de sécurité de l’emploi et en ce qui concerne les conditions de vie sur le lieu de travail. Ces règles, règlements et procédures doivent tenir compte des conventions et recommandations de l’Organisation internationale du Travail et des autres organisations internationales compétentes.; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 85; Paragraph 87; Paragraph 89; Paragraph 91; Paragraph 241
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 85; Paragraph 87; Paragraph 241
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power, whether acting on its own or in cooperation with the ISA, to conduct examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties, Affiliates or Associates and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as is necessary to meet the Republic’s responsibilities under any written law or international law, which may include: (a) sending an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities, vessel installation or premises of the Sponsored Party, Affiliates or Associates; (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, at any time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; or (c) use of real time monitoring technologies. (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection (1)(a) shall: (a) take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels; and (b) follow all instructions and directions pertaining to the safety of life at sea given to them by the master of the vessel or other relevant safety officers aboard vessels and installations. (3) The Authority may direct any person to furnish it within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person who without reasonable excuse fails to comply with a direction issued under this Section, commits an offence and shall upon conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding $200,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years, or to both.; Section 58. Safety zones around Exploration or Exploitation vessels. (1) A Sponsored Party may, consistent with the UNCLOS and in cooperation with the master of any vessel or installation, establish a safety zone around vessels and installations conducting activities in the Area that extends from the outer extremities of such vessels, installations or equipment deployed and installations, to a distance of 500 metres in all directions. (2) No vessel or person shall navigate within or enter a safety zone. (3) Subsection (2) shall not apply to a vessel that: (a) is in distress; (b) is attempting to save a life or provide assistance to a vessel in distress; (c) is operated by or on behalf of the ISA or a State having jurisdiction over the exploration or exploitation operations; or (d) has received permission from the person in charge of the exploration or exploitation vessel or installation to enter the safety zone around such vessel. (4) Any person who contravenes subsection (2) commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or to an imprisonment term not exceeding 10 years or to both.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 42. Prospecting Permit Application For an application for a Prospecting Permit to have been properly made, for the purposes of section 41 to this Act, the application shall be made to the Authority in writing at least six months before the proposed commencement date of the Prospecting, and shall contain - (a) the cruise name and number; (b) the name, nationality and address, contact details, and, where relevant evidence of incorporation or registration, of the Applicant, and any other collaborators and participants; (c) the name, nationality, address, contact details and certificate of the requisite skills of the officer in charge of the proposed Prospecting activities; (d) the co-ordinates and charts of the area or areas within which the proposed Prospecting is to be conducted; Page 30 2020 Revised Edition (e) a general description of the nature and objectives of the proposed Prospecting activities, including the methods and technology to be used, the proposed date of commencement and approximate duration, and the proposed use of the data collected, including any plans to make the research results internationally available; (f) the details of the methods, the equipment, and any installations to be used; (g) a preliminary assessment of likely impact on the Marine Environment of the proposed Prospecting; (h) the details of any intended ports of call; (i) modalities of the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the Prospecting activities; and (j) the expected dates and method of submission to the Kingdom of a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results.; Section 73. Variation, suspension, or revocation of a Licence (1) The Authority may vary, suspend, or revoke any Exploration Licence or Mining Licence under this section— (a) where any of the qualification criteria prescribed under regulations ceases to be met by the Licensee in a material particular; (b) if a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (b) the Marine Environment; (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; or (iii) avoid any situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international or domestic peace and security; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Licensee; (e) in order to secure or reasonably to promote compliance by the Licensee with the Licensee‘s obligations and undertakings under this Act, the Regulations and the Licence; (f) if the Licensee has failed to comply with a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to it; (g) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Licensee, or upon the Licensee ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (h) upon consultation with the Licensee, where the Licensee is prevented for a continuous period exceeding two years from undertaking the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities under the Licence despite taking all reasonable measures to do so, because of an event outside of the Licensee‘s control; Page 42 2020 Revised Edition (i) where no material efforts have been made by the Licensee to undertake the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding two years; (j) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Licensee of - (i) a material undertaking or term or condition of the Licence; (ii) the provisions of this Act or Regulations made under this Act or other laws of the Kingdom; (iii) conditions imposed under the EIA Act; or (iv) requirement of an Order made under this Act, and such breach either cannot be remedied or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice by the Authority; (k) where the relevant Seabed Mineral Activities in the view of Cabinet constitute an unacceptable risk to the Kingdom or are clearly no longer in the interests of the Kingdom due to changes in the circumstances pertaining to the Activities including (without limitation) changes to - (i) the market for Seabed Minerals; (ii) best environmental practice pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; or (iii) the state of technology utilised for Seabed Mineral Activities, as well as the capacity of the Licensee to adapt to the changes in circumstances; (l) where any payment owing under section 75 or any part of this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; or (m) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s prior approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section the Authority, shall unless the decision is made at the Licensee‘s request and on the exact terms of the Licensee‘s request, give to the Licensee at least ninety days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of that proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice or a copy of the notice has been given, and who objects to it, to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe. (3) If the Authority has suspended a Licence, it may by notice require the Licensee to resume its activities and comply with the terms and conditions of the Licence, not later than 90 days after such notice. (4) In lieu of variation, suspension or revocation under sub-sections (1)(a), (b), (c), (e), (f), (i), (j), and (l), the Authority may take any of the administrative 2020 Revised Edition Page 43 actions provided for in section 27 of this Act, or impose upon the Licensee monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $1,000,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm. (5) The Authority shall not execute a decision involving monetary penalties under sub-section (4) until the Licensee has been accorded a reasonable opportunity to exhaust the judicial remedies available to it under the laws of the Kingdom. (6) In the event of termination or expiration of a Licence, the Licensee shall comply with the Regulations and shall remove all installations, plant, equipment and materials in the Licensed Area and shall make the Licensed Area and its surroundings safe so as not to constitute a danger to persons, shipping or to the Marine Environment. (7) Upon effecting a variation of a Licence the Authority shall- (a) prepare an instrument of variation signed by the Minister and the designated representative of the Licensee; (b) register the variation to that Licence in the register of Titles, maintained by the Authority under section 34 of this Act; (c) issue to the Licensee a copy of that instrument of variation; and (d) publish notice of the variation in the Gazette.; Section 96. Application for Marine Scientific Research For an application for consent to conduct Marine Scientific Research to have been properly made, for the purposes of section 97 to this Act, the application shall be made to the Authority in writing at least six months before the proposed commencement date of the Marine Scientific Research project, and shall contain - (a) the cruise name and number; (b) the name, nationality, contact details and address of the sponsoring institution, the scientist in charge of the project, and any other collaborators and participants; (c) the co-ordinates and charts of the broad area or areas within which the project is to be conducted; (d) a general description of the nature and objectives of the project, including the proposed date of commencement and its approximate duration, and the proposed use of the data collected, including any plans to make the research results internationally available; (e) the details of the methods, the equipment, and any installations to be used; (f) a preliminary assessment of likely impact on the Marine Environment of the proposed project; Page 54 2020 Revised Edition (g) the details of any intended ports of call; (h) modalities of the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; and (i) the expected dates and method of submission to the Kingdom of a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results.; Section 98. Grounds for denial of consent to Marine Scientific Research The Authority may deny consent to an application to conduct Marine Scientific Research for any reason whatsoever including if - (a) the Authority reasonably considers that - (i) the proposed Marine Scientific Research is of direct significance to the exploration and Mining of the natural resources of the Kingdom, whether living or non-living; (ii) the information supplied pursuant to section 96 of this Act is inaccurate; or (iii) the person applying to conduct Marine Scientific Research already has an overdue outstanding obligation to the Kingdom from a prior Marine Scientific Research project; or (b) the proposed Marine Scientific Research involves – (i) drilling into the Continental Shelf; (ii) the use of explosives; (iii) the introduction of harmful substances into the Marine Environment; (iv) the construction, operation or use of artificial islands, installations or structures (as referred to in Articles 60 and 80 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea); or (v) an unacceptable risk to the Marine Environment.; Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition; Section 113. Safety zones (1) For the purpose of protecting an installation, infrastructure, facility or vessel being used for Seabed Mining Activities, the Authority may by notice published in the Gazette prohibit all vessels or specified classes of vessels, from entering or being present in a specified area (‘the safety zone’) surrounding the installation, infrastructure, facility or vessel without the written consent of the Authority. (2) The owner of a vessel and any person in formal or substantive command of a vessel commits an offence against this section if the vessel enters or remains in a safety zone in contravention of subsection (1). (3) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $250,000. (4) It is a defence to a prosecution of a person for an offence against subsection (2) if the person satisfies the court that - (i) an unforeseen emergency made it necessary for the vessel to enter or remain in the safety zone to attempt to secure the safety of human life, a vessel, pipeline, structure or equipment; (ii) the vessel entered or remained in the safety zone in circumstances beyond the control of the person who was in command or in charge of the vessel; or (iii) he is the owner of the vessel and he did not know that the person in command or in charge of the vessel was in contravention of subsection (1).
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 145. Protection du milieu marin; Article 146. Protection de la vie humaine; Article 147. Compatibilité des activités menées dans la zone et des; Article 153. Système d’exploration et d’exploitation; Article 155. Conférence de révision
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 145. Protection of the marine environment; Article 146. Protection of human life; Article 147. Accommodation of activities in the Area and in the marine environment; Article 153. System of exploration and exploitation; Article 155. The Review Conference

compliance_inspection_and_enforcement (487)

Inspection, emergency orders, suspension/adjustment of operations, penalties and other compliance measures.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work 1. Each application for approval of a Plan of Work shall be:; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 18 bis. Obligations of the Contractors; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 26. Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee/Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 30 bis. Human health and safety management system; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans 1. A Contractor shall maintain:; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 36. Insurance; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Prevention of corruption; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 48 bis. [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 50. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 51. Compliance with the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 52. Performance assessments of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 61. [Implementation and Monitoring of the Final Closure Plan] 1. The purpose of Closure monitoring is [to]:; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Section 6. Interest and penalties; Regulation 80. Monetary penalties [inserted under regulation 103]; Regulation 83 bis. Beneficial Ownership Registry; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 22 and Instruments of Transfer or Assignment in accordance with regulation 23;; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 95 ter Public Complaint The [Council]/[Compliance Committee] shall develop and implement public complaints procedure to facilitate reporting to the Authority by any person or entity of any concerns about the activities in the Area.; Section 2. Inspections; Regulation 96. The [inspection] / [compliance] mechanism; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the noncompliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection. ] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities] 1. Inspectors shall:; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [Alt. 1 objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Alt. 2 Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with [regulation 35 and] any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary -General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, specifying the date of receipt.]; Section 3. Enforcement and penalties; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Regulation 105. Sponsoring States Without prejudice to regulations 5, 6 and 21, and to the generality of their obligations under article 139, paragraph 2, and article 153, paragraph 4, of the Convention and article 4, paragraph 4, of Annex III to the Convention, Sponsoring States shall, in particular, take all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by Contractors they have sponsored in accordance with Part XI of the Convention, the Agreement, rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority and the terms and conditions of the Exploitation Contract.; Section 4. Periodic review of inspection, compliance and enforcement mechanism; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Section III. Technical information; Annex II. Mining Workplan A Mining Workplan, based on the results of Exploration (at least equivalent to the data and information to be provided pursuant to section 11.2 of the standard clauses for Exploration Contracts), should cover the following subject matters:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex VI. Health and Safety Plan and Maritime Security Plan Note: several important provisions of this Annex have currently been placed in the Suspense document and will be incorporated into Standards and Guidelines at a later stage. A Health and Safety Plan 1. The Health and Safety Plan prepared under these Regulations and this Annex must:; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18bis. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 5. Legal title to Minerals 5.1 The Contractor will obtain title to and property over the Minerals upon recovery of the Minerals from the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof [onto the Contractor’s mining vessel or Installation], in compliance with this Contract. 5.2 This Contract shall not create, nor be deemed to confer, any interest or right on the Contractor in or over any other part of the Area and its Resources other than those rights expressly granted in this Contract.; Section 9. Extension 9.1 20.] [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of s uch renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:; Annex XI to these Regulations.] “Pilot Mining”] [means an in situ operating of the integrated system of all equipment and all related process steps, including collector, raiser and release techniques, for exploitation activities in a Contract Area under appropriate technical, spatial and temporal conditions which provides evidence concerning, inter alia, environmental impact, commercial capacity, duration of operations to validate feasibility of future Commercial Production. “Plan of Work” means a Plan of Work for Exploitation in the Area, defined collectively as all and any plans or other documents setting out the activities for the conduct of the Exploitation, which form part of, or is proposed to be part of, an Exploitation Contract. “Preservation” means the maintenance of the environment, lands and natural resources without anthropogenic use beyond access. “Preservation Reference Zone” means a zone designated within the Contract Area in accordance with Annex X bis to these Regulations that has been identified as having similar ecological characteristics to an Impact Reference Zone, and within which no mining impacts are predicted to occur, which will be used to show a representative and stable ecosystem from the sea surface to the benthic subsurface layers, and can be used to form a comparison with an Impact Reference Zone. “Protection [of the Marine Environment]” means any action or activity designed to reduce or prevent pollution, negative environmental impacts or other damage to environment, land, ecosystems, natural resources, [traditional ownership or customary use of resources, human remains and Underwater Cultural Heritage, or intangible Underwater Cultural Heritage] by human activities, including to mitigate climate change, to reduce the risk of such damage, to protect and restore biodiversity or to lead to more efficient use of natural resources, including energy-saving measures and the use of renewable sources of energy and other techniques to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as to shift to circular economy models to reduce the use of primary materials and increase efficiencies. It also covers actions that reinforce adaptive capacity and minimise vulnerability to climate impacts. “Regulations” means the regulations on exploitation of Mineral resources in the Area, adopted by the Authority. “Rehabilitation” means an occurrence of when an ecosystem recovers characteristics of its natural state, such as the presence of its original species, functions or services. “Regional Environmental Management Plan” means a proactive spatial management strategy that anticipates exploitation and that includes the designation of areas of Particular Environmental Interest. [Where the Regulations refer to the “applicable Regional Environmental Management Plan”, this shall be understood to mean the Regional Environmental Management Plan adopted by the Council for the particular area and type of resource concerned.] “Related Parties” or “Related Party” means parties that belong to the same corporate structure, such as a parent and subsidiary company, or sister companies which are both subsidiaries of the same parent company, and a state enterprise shall be considered a “Related Party” vis-à-vis its host State party or a Contractor sponsored by its host State party unless evidence is provided that any costs, prices and revenues have been charged or determined on an arm’s-length basis. “Reserved Area” means any part of the Area designated by the Authority as a reserved area in accordance with article 8 of Annex III to the Convention. “Resources” means all solid, liquid or gaseous mineral resources, Mineral-bearing ore, associated Minerals, or mixture thereof in situ in the Area at or beneath the seabed. “Restoration” means a return to pre-disturbance conditions. “Roster of Inspectors” means [to be inserted] “Rules of the Authority” means [the Convention, the Agreement,] these Regulations and other rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, including Standards and Guidelines as may be adopted from time to time. “Scoping Report” means [to be inserted] “Seabed Mining Register” means the registry established and maintained by the Authority in accordance with regulation 92. [“Serious Harm to the Marine Environment”] means an Environmental Effect that, individually in combination or cumulatively meets any of the following criteria:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 3. Duty to cooperate and exchange of information In matters relating to these Regulations:; Regulation 5. Qualified Applicants; Regulation 6. Certificate of sponsorship; Regulation 7. Form of applications and information to accompany a Plan of Work; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 15. Commission’s recommendation for the approval or disapproval of a Plan of Work; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 21. Termination of sponsorship; Regulation 26 Alt. 1 Environmental Performance Guarantee / Alt. 2 Decommissioning and Emergency Response Guarantee/Alt. 3 Closure Guarantee; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 29. Reduction or suspension in production; Regulation 29 quat. Ship notification, electronic monitoring and data reporting; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 30 bis. Human health and safety management system; Regulation 32. Emergency Response and Contingency Plans; Regulation 33. Preventing and responding to Incidents; Regulation 34. Notification of Incidents and Notifiable Events; Regulation 36. Insurance; Regulation 38. Annual report; Regulation 39. Books, records and samples; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 42. Restrictions on advertisements, prospectuses and other notices; Regulation 43. Compliance with other laws and regulations; Regulation 48 bis [New Environmental Impact Assessment and Revised Environmental Impact Statement [or Revision of Environmental Plans]] / [Revision for change or new or increased effect or risk]; Regulation 48 ter Pilot Mining [1. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor, as the case may be, from conducting Test Mining before the submission of a Plan of Work for Exploitation.] [1.Alt. Unless otherwise provided, nothing in this regulation shall exempt the Applicant or Contractor from conducting Test Mining and Pilot Mining.]; Regulation 49. Environmental Management and Monitoring; Regulation 51. Closure Plan; Regulation 51 bis. Implementation and Monitoring of the Closure Plan; Regulation 52. Reporting on Environmental Monitoring and Management; Regulation 58. Review of a Plan of Work; Regulation 69. Error or mistake in royalty return A Contractor shall notify the Secretary-General promptly of any error in calculation or mistake of fact in connection with a royalty return or payment of a royalty. [Failure by a Contractor to notify the Secretary-General shall attract a penalty.]; Regulation 73. Overpayment of royalty; Regulation 74. Proper books and records to be kept; Regulation 75. Audit by the Authority; Regulation 76. Assessment by the Authority; Section 6. Interest and penalties; Regulation 80. Monetary penalties [inserted under regulation 103]; Regulation 83 bis. Beneficial Ownership Registry; Regulation 85. Annual fixed fee; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Regulation 95 bis. Compliance Committee; Regulation 95 ter Public Complaint The [Council]/[Compliance Committee] shall develop and implement public complaints procedure to facilitate reporting to the Authority by any person or entity of any concerns about the activities in the Area.; Section 2. Inspections; Regulation 96. The [inspection] / [compliance] mechanism [[]]; Regulation 96 bis. Inspections; Regulation 96 ter Request for inspection [in the event of [harmful effects]] to the Marine Environment] [1. In the event of harmful effects or risk of harmful effects to the Marine Environment, [any State or States] , which have [reasonable] grounds for believing [that] such harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area, shall notify the [Chief Inspector] / [Compliance Committee] [and the relevant Contractor] through the] Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. [The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the belief that the harmful effects are caused by activities in the Area.] [1. Alt. Where there are grounds for believing a Contractor does not comply with, or is at risk of non-compliance with, the rules, regulations and procedures of the Authority, and the terms of the Exploitation Contract as referred to in regulations 18bis and 98, any State may notify the Chief Inspector through the Secretary-General in writing of the grounds upon which such belief is based and request an inspection. The notification shall include all relevant evidence, and all documentation supporting the non-compliance.] [1. bis In reviewing a Contractor’s annual report, the Commission may inform the Compliance Committee of a possible non-compliance situation on the Contractor’s activities. The Compliance Committee shall consider such situation and may recommend, if necessary, to the Council for initiating an inspection.] [1. ter Anyone who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a Contractor has violated the Convention, these Regulations, Exploitation Contracts, or caused harmful effects to the Marine Environment, may request the Compliance Committee through the Secretary-General for inspection in writing.]; Regulation 97. Inspectors: Appointment and supervision; Regulation 97 bis. [Inspectors’ Functions and Responsibilities]; Regulation 98. Inspectors’ powers; Regulation 99. Inspectors’ power to issue instructions [1. If, as a result of an inspection, an Inspector has reasonable grounds to determine that any occurrence, practice or condition endangers or may endanger the health or safety of any person or poses a [threat]/[risk] of harmful effects to the Marine Environment or to human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage] [or any venerated sites], the Inspector shall give a written instruction, which shall have immediate effect, of a temporary nature considered reasonably necessary to remedy the situation, in accordance with Regulation 35 and any applicable Standards, including:; Regulation 100. Inspection Reports; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary-General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary-General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, [], specifying the date of receipt.]; Section 3. Enforcement and penalties; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 104. Power to take remedial action; Section 4. Periodic review of inspection, compliance and enforcement mechanism; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section III. Technical information; Annex II. Mining Workplan A Mining Workplan, based on the results of Exploration (at least equivalent to the data and information to be provided pursuant to section 11.2 of the standard clauses for Exploration Contracts), should cover the following subject matters:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Annex VI. Health and Safety Plan and Maritime Security Plan Note: several important provisions of this Annex have currently been placed in the Suspense document and will be incorporated into Standards and Guidelines at a later stage. A Health and Safety Plan; Annex VII. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Annex VIII. Closure Plan; Section 3. Undertakings 3.1 The Authority undertakes to fulfil in good faith its powers and functions under the Convention and the Agreement in accordance with article 157 of the Convention. 3.2 The Contractor shall implement this Contract in good faith and shall in particular implement the Plan of Work in accordance with regulation 18 bis . For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan of Work includes:; Section 5. Legal title to Minerals 5.1 The Contractor will obtain title to and property over the Minerals upon recovery of the Minerals from the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof [onto the Contractor’s mining vessel or Installation], in compliance with this Contract. 5.2 This Contract shall not create, nor be deemed to confer, any interest or right on the Contractor in or over any other part of the Area and its Resources other than those rights expressly granted in this Contract.; Section 9. Extension 9.1 [Alt. 1 The Contractor may extent this Contract in accordance with regulation 20.] [Alt. 2 The Contractor may extent this Contract for periods not more than 10 years each, on the following conditions:; Section 10. Renunciation of rights 10.1 The Contractor, by prior written notice to the Authority, may renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the Contract Area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations and liabilities accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the whole or part of the Contract Area renounced. Such obligations shall include, inter alia, the payment of any sums outstanding to the Authority, and obligations under the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan and Closure Plan.; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 13. Obligations on Termination of a Contract 13.1 In the event of termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall:; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 38. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 39. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » ______________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第3条探矿通知; 第6条年度报告; 第11条担保书; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第28条合同期限; 第35条紧急命令; 第39条确保机密性的程序; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 6. Annual report; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Annex I. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for cobalt crusts in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than cobalt crusts with third parties in the area covered by this contract.; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations. 46 12-57345; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 8; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 31. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 36. Конфиденциальность данных и информации; Правило 37. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Приложение I. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Приложение III. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИМ КОНТРАКТОМ, заключенным «___» ____________ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТСЯ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 21. Приостановление или прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第3条探矿通知; 第6条年度报告; 第11条担保书; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第26条合同期限; 第33条紧急命令; 第37条确保机密性的程序; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 6. Annual report; Regulation 21. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 33. Emergency orders; Annex I. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for polymetallic nodules in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than polymetallic nodules with third parties in the area covered by this contract. 36 13-40403; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations.; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 8; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 14. Inspection 14.1 Le Contractant autorise l’Autorité à envoyer ses inspecteurs à bord des navires et installations qu’il utilise pour ses activités dans la zone d’exploration pour : a) S’assurer qu’il respecte les termes du présent contrat et les dispositions du Règlement; et b) Surveiller les effets desdites activités sur le milieu marin. 14.2 Le Secrétaire général notifie au Contractant, suffisamment à l’avance, la date et la durée probables des inspections, le nom des inspecteurs et toutes activités pour lesquelles ceux-ci auront probablement besoin de matériel spécialisé ou d’une assistance spéciale du personnel du Contractant. 14.3 Les inspecteurs sont habilités à inspecter tout navire ou toute installation, y compris le journal de bord, les équipements, les registres, les installations, toutes les autres données enregistrées et tous documents nécessaires pour déterminer si le Contractant exécute ses obligations. 14.4 Le Contractant, ses agents et ses employés aident les inspecteurs à s’acquitter de leurs fonctions et : a) Acceptent que ceux-ci embarquent sans délai et en toute sécurité à bord des navires et installations et leur en facilitent l’accès;
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 3. Уведомление о поиске; Правило 6. Годовой отчет; Правило 9. Общие положения При условии соблюдения положений Конвенции право подавать в Орган заявки на утверждение планов работы на разведку имеют: a) ности; Предприятие от своего имени или как участник совместной деятель-; Правило 33. Защита и сохранение морской среды; Правило 38. Данные и информация, имеющие характер собственности, и конфиденциальность; Правило 39. Процедуры обеспечения конфиденциальности; Приложение 1. Уведомление о намерении заняться поиском; Приложение 3. Контракт на разведку НАСТОЯЩИЙ КОНТРАКТ, заключенный « » _____ года между МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫМ ОРГАНОМ ПО МОРСКОМУ ДНУ (именуемым далее «Орган»), представленным его ГЕНЕРАЛЬНЫМ СЕКРЕТАРЕМ, и ____________________ (именуемым далее «Контрактор»), представленным _____________________, УДОСТОВЕРЯЕТ нижеследующее: Инкорпорация условий A. Стандартные условия, приводимые в приложении 2 к Правилам поиска и разведки полиметаллических сульфидов в Районе, включаются в настоящий контракт и имеют такую же силу, как если бы они развернуто приводились в самом контракте. Разведочный район B. Для целей настоящего контракта «разведочный район» означает ту часть Района, которая выделена Контрактору для разведки; она определяется перечисленными в добавлении 1 к контракту координатами и может периодически сокращаться в соответствии со стандартными условиями и Правилами. Предоставление прав C. С учетом: 1) их взаимной заинтересованности в осуществлении деятельности по разведке в разведочном районе в соответствии с Конвенцией и Соглашением, 2) ответственность Органа за организацию и контроль деятельности в Районе, особенно в целях управления ресурсами Района, в соответствии с правовым режимом, установленным, соответственно, в части XI Конвенции и Соглашении и в части XII Конвенции, и 3) интересов и финансовых обязательств Контрактора в осуществлении деятельности в разведочном районе и взаимных договоренностей, закрепленных в настоящем контракте, Орган настоящим предоставляет Контрактору исключительное право на разведку полиметаллических сульфидов в разведочном районе в соответствии с условиями настоящего контракта. Вступление в силу и срок действия контракта D. Настоящий контракт вступает в силу по его подписании обеими сторонами и с соблюдением стандартных условий остается в силе в течение последующих пятнадцати лет, если только: 1) Контрактор не получит контракт на разработку в разведочном районе, вступающий в силу до истечения такого пятнадцатилетнего периода, или 2) контракт не будет прекращен ранее, при условии что срок действия контракта может быть продлен в соответствии со стандартными условиями 3.2 и 17.2. Добавления E. Добавления, упоминаемые в стандартных условиях, а именно в разделе 4 и разделе 8, являются для целей настоящего контракта, соответственно, добавлениями 2 и 3. Содержание соглашения F. Настоящий контракт заключает в себе все содержание соглашения между сторонами, и никакие устные договоренности или предшествующие документы не меняют его условий. В УДОСТОВЕРЕНИЕ ЧЕГО нижеподписавшиеся, должным образом на то уполномоченные соответствующими сторонами, подписали « » ______ года в __________ настоящий контракт.; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 14. Инспектирование; Раздел 19. Отказ от прав Контрактор вправе, уведомив Орган, отказаться от своих прав и прекратить действие настоящего контракта, не подвергаясь каким-либо санкциям, при том что он не освобождается ни от каких обязательств, возникших до даты такого отказа, и от тех обязательств, которые требуется выполнить после прекращения действия контракта в соответствии с Правилами.; Раздел 21. Приостановление и прекращение действия контракта и санкции; Раздел 27. Применимые правовые нормы
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第3条探矿通知; 第6条年度报告; 第11条担保书; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第28条合同期限; 第35条紧急命令; 第39条确保机密性的程序; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 3. Notification of prospecting; Regulation 6. Annual report; Regulation 23. Consideration by the Legal and Technical Commission; Regulation 35. Emergency orders; Annex 1. Notification of intention to engage in prospecting; Section 2. Security of tenure 2.1 The Contractor shall have security of tenure and this contract shall not be suspended, terminated or revised except in accordance with sections 20, 21 and 24 hereof. 2.2 The Contractor shall have the exclusive right to explore for polymetallic sulphides in the exploration area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract. The Authority shall ensure that no other entity operates in the exploration area for a different category of resources in a manner that might unreasonably interfere with the operations of the Contractor. 2.3 The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right at any time to renounce without penalty the whole or part of its rights in the exploration area, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation in respect of the area renounced. 2.4 Nothing in this contract shall be deemed to confer any right on the Contractor other than those rights expressly granted herein. The Authority reserves the right to enter into contracts with respect to resources other than polymetallic sulphides with third parties in the area covered by this contract.; Section 6. Contingency plans and emergencies 6.1 The Contractor shall, prior to the commencement of its programme of activities under this contract, submit to the Secretary-General a contingency plan to respond effectively to incidents that are likely to cause serious harm or a threat of serious harm to the marine environment arising from the Contractor’s activities at sea in the exploration area. Such contingency plan shall establish special procedures and provide for adequate and appropriate equipment to deal with such incidents and, in particular, shall include arrangements for:; Section 14. Inspection 14.1 The Contractor shall permit the Authority to send its inspectors on board vessels and installations used by the Contractor to carry out activities in the exploration area to:; Section 19. Renunciation of rights The Contractor, by notice to the Authority, shall have the right to renounce its rights and terminate this contract without penalty, provided that the Contractor shall remain liable for all obligations accrued prior to the date of such renunciation and those obligations required to be fulfilled after termination in accordance with the Regulations. 46 10-63720; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: Paragraph 1; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 119; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 166; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 186; Paragraph 214; Paragraph 215; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 228; Paragraph 234; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 76; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 119; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 133; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 142; Paragraph 166; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 186; Paragraph 201; Paragraph 214; Paragraph 215; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 219; Paragraph 222; Paragraph 228; Paragraph 234; Paragraph 236; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Kittichaisaree, 18 July 2026 (Cases Nos. 34 and 35): Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 187(c)(i) and (ii) do not afford a prima facie basis on which the jurisdiction of the [Chamber] might be founded."; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order 2026/8 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 26; Paragraph 28; Paragraph 36; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 38; Paragraph 39; Paragraph 64; Paragraph 67; Paragraph 69; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 76; Paragraph 80; Paragraph 81; Paragraph 82; Paragraph 83; Paragraph 98; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 101; Paragraph 105; Paragraph 107; Paragraph 109; Paragraph 115; Paragraph 121; Paragraph 122; Paragraph 123; Paragraph 124; Paragraph 125; Paragraph 126; Paragraph 128; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 135; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 149; Paragraph 152; Paragraph 153; Paragraph 162; Paragraph 165; Paragraph 166; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 178; Paragraph 190
• ITLOS Order 2026/9 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 4
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 5. ‘Material Change’ means a significant change as defined in the relevant Rules. of the ISA; ‘Performance Improvement Plan’ means a plan to address the issues identified by the Authority as may be required by regulation 47; ‘Plan of Work’ is a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation in the Area as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Reportable Event’ means an event that is classified as such under these Regulations or a Sponsorship Agreement, and includes: (a) a notifiable event defined under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) a failure to comply with the fundamental terms and conditions of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, including a failure to achieve, or a breach of, an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome; (c) a determination by the ISA that the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan is inadequate in any material respect following a performance assessment under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) a contravention of, or a failure to comply with, a material term or condition of the Sponsorship Agreement; (e) a material reduction in production under a Plan of Work; (f) any failure, or likely failure in a Management System that could cause or contribute to a major accident or incident; (g) the identification of any new significant health and safety risk or significant Environmental Risk, or a significant change to existing risk calculations; (h) the receipt of a written instruction from an inspector appointed by the ISA; (i) the receipt of a compliance notice from the ISA; (j) a request by the ISA to audit the books of the sponsored entity; (k) the taking of any measures under regulation 35; (l) a failure to comply with a compliance direction or emergency direction under regulations 47 or 48 within the time allowed in the direction; or (m) any event classified by the Authority as a Reportable Event as the Seabed Mineral Activities progress; and ‘Technical Assistance Committee’ means a technical committee, set up by the Authority under the Act; ‘UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules’ means the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law adopted by the United General Assembly on 9 December 2021; (2) Terms used in these regulations that are defined in the Act have the meanings given to them by the Act.; Section 7. (ii) a statement that the draft ISA application has been prepared in. accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (iii) a document setting out the framework of the Management System, including details of the standard operating procedures to monitor and track compliance with the Act, these Regulations, and the relevant Rules of the ISA, including the primary procedures to control the risk of significant accidents and hazards; (iv) in the case of proposed exploitation, a statement demonstrating that the Seabed Mineral Activities will take place in accordance with sound commercial principles; (v) a summary of the key issues arising from the Environmental Impact Assessment, including the evaluation of the Environmental Risks and Environmental Impacts and the measures to manage, limit or remedy such risks and impacts of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment; (vi) a summary of where applicable, the measurement criteria to be adopted to measure the Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes and how these will be monitored, achieved and reported, including the use of Early Warning Indicator Criteria; (vii) a summary of the Control Measures that will be used to reduce the impacts and risks of the Seabed Mineral Activities to human health and safety and the marine environment to as low as reasonably practicable; (viii) a summary of any matter in the draft ISA application where the applicant considers there is a significant lack of information or a significant degree of uncertainty, together with a summary of its likely impact on any major assumptions made and how the applicant intends to address such lack of data or information or uncertainty through any further investigations, studies or tests; (ix) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply the precautionary approach and the extent to which the precautionary approach is integrated into the applicant’s risk assessment and management processes; (x) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply the ecosystem-based management approach; (xi) details of how the applicant has and will continue to adopt and apply Best Environmental Practices and Best Available Techniques; and; Section 10. (a). clarification of the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) the compliance record, if any, of the applicant with an ISA contract; (c) any data, information, reports or studies held by the ISA that may be relevant to the sponsorship application; and (d) any other matters relevant to the application. (3) Where required under the relevant Rules of the ISA, including rules relating to the disclosure of confidential information held by the ISA, the applicant shall grant the ISA the necessary permission to disclose any information, whether confidential or otherwise contemplated by subregulation (2), to the Authority. (4) The Chief Executive Officer shall ensure that any advice or information arising from consultation under this regulation is provided in the report prepared under regulation 9(1). Review of application and preparation of assessment report (1) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days after the date the Authority receives the application, prepare an assessment report for the Board providing an overview and assessment of the application and the applicant against the Qualification Criteria in Section 17 of the Act taking into consideration the Applicable Guideline. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall: (a) seek advice or comments from relevant Departments, the Technical Assistance Committee and approved experts as necessary in order to prepare the report under subregulation (1); and (b) provide a copy of the report to the Sponsorship Applicant for its review and comment. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall submit the application, his or her assessment report and any relevant information under regulation 10 to the Board for its consideration. Relevant information for consideration of application by Authority (1) The Authority shall in considering and determining an application under Section 16, and in making a recommendation to the Cabinet under Section 18 of the Act, consider the following: (a) the Act and these Regulations; (b) the relevant Rules of the ISA; (c) the Chief Executive Officer’s assessment report; (d) any comments provided by the Sponsorship Applicant under regulation 9(2)(b);; Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 24. Specific conditions of sponsorship. (1) The Authority may pursuant to regulation 14(5) recommend to the Cabinet that specific conditions be included in a Sponsorship Agreement as considered necessary and appropriate to promote compliance with the Act and its objectives, taking into account: (a) the Republic’s obligation to take all necessary and reasonably appropriate measures to secure effective compliance of a Sponsored Party pursuant to article 139(2) of the UNCLOS; (b) the Republic’s obligation to assist the ISA to ensure such compliance pursuant to article 153(3) of the UNCLOS; the monitoring and enforcement capacity of the ISA at the time of the application; and (c) (d) the results and findings from the assessment of the Qualification Criteria. (2) Specific conditions may be included for the purpose of requiring the Sponsored Party to, for example: (a) undertake specific monitoring or reporting on its Seabed Mineral Activities at specified intervals, including information to be supplied to the Authority; (b) taking out a certain category of insurance; (c) undertake specific studies, investigations or analysis; (d) make specific information or records available for audit or verification by the Authority or by an approved expert; (e) align with a specific internationally accepted process standard; (f) provide a Security Deposit pursuant to Section 52 of the Act and regulation 26 to manage any risk and liability exposures; (g) be vicariously liable for any environmental breaches caused by its employees; (h) implement specified measures relating to the health, safety and welfare of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities and not regulated by any other competent authority, body or organisation; (i) implement specified measures which may include specified Environmental Performance Objectives and Environmental Performance Outcomes to deal with the potential risks and effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the marine environment or other marine users; (j) undertake specific education and awareness programmes in the Republic relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; (k) provide specific reporting on or compliance with the Qualification Criteria prior to the commencement of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (l) pay a specified penalty if the Sponsored Party does not comply with a condition of the Sponsorship Agreement. (3) The Authority shall consider, where applicable, whether the specific conditions recommended under this regulation are reasonably practicable in relation to the matter the condition is intended to address, and compliance with the condition can be monitored effectively by the Authority and the Sponsored Party. (4) The Authority may recommend more stringent conditions than those of the relevant Rules of the ISA pursuant to annex III, article 21(3) of the UNCLOS. (5) In formulating any specific conditions, the Authority may seek advice from relevant Departments or an approved expert.; Section 27. Notification of material matters. (1) For the purposes of Section 26(i) of the Act, the Sponsored Party shall notify the Authority in writing within 24 hours after it becomes aware of any new information or data that materially affects affect its ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria, comply with the Plan of Work or ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) The notification shall include details of: (a) the new information or data demonstrating why this may materially affect the circumstances contemplated under subregulation (1); and (b) any corrective actions or measures that the Sponsored Party has taken or will take to remedy any inability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria, comply with the Plan of Work or inability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA.. (3) Following receipt of any notification under subregulation (1), the Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the Sponsored Party as to the nature and circumstances of the Sponsored Party’s inability to comply with or satisfy the circumstances contemplated under subregulation (1) and consider such remedial or corrective measures to return the Sponsored Party to compliance, which may include the issue of a compliance direction by the Authority under regulation 47. (4) A Sponsored Party that, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulation (1), commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to pay a fine of $25,000.; Section 30. Making records available. (1) This regulation applies in relation to a document or other record that are required to be established, kept and maintained under regulations 28 and 29. (2) The Sponsored Party shall upon request make a copy of the document or record available to any of the following persons: (a) an Authorised Representative, including an observer under appointed under Section 11(1)(t) of the Act; or (b) an ISA inspector, or other authorised representative of the ISA. (3) The copy of the document or record shall be made available: (a) in the case of an emergency or incident relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, as soon as practicable at any time of the day or night on any day during such emergency or incident; or (b) in any other case, during normal business hours on a working day in the place where the document or record is kept. (4) The copy of the document or record shall be made available at the place where the document or record is kept or another place agreed between the Sponsored Party and the person making the request. (5) The document may be made available at another place by means of electronic transmission. (6) Where the document or record is stored on electronically or digitally, the copy shall be made available in printed form or if the Sponsored Party and the person making the request so agree, in electronic or digital form. (7) A Sponsored Party which, without reasonable excuse contravenes subregulations (2), (3), (4) or (6) commits a strict liability offence and shall be liable to a fine of $25,000.; Section 31. Annual report. (1) A Sponsored Party shall submit an annual report to the Authority within 90 days of the end of each calendar year containing information on its programme of activities for the previous year. (2) For the purposes of preventing duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements, the Authority may accept the submission of the ISA’s annual report by the Sponsored Party prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and deem submission of such report to be complying with subregulation (1). (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the annual report and provide pertinent comments and any recommendations relating to the progress of the Seabed Mineral Activities and possible instances of non-compliance to the Board for its review and consideration. (4) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA on any matter raised by the annual report and cooperate with the ISA to investigate any possible instances of non-compliance under the relevant Rules of the ISA arising from the review of the report. (5) Nothing in this regulation precludes the Authority from requesting more frequent progress reports or further information in respect of the Seabed Mineral Activities under the sponsorship of the Republic.; Section 32. Compliance statement. (1) For the purposes of Section 26(s), a Sponsored Party shall, within 120 days after the end of the financial year provide to the Authority a compliance statement in accordance with the requirements of this regulation and the Applicable Guideline. (2) The reportable matters shall be of such matters within each 12-month period, or any period within the 12-month period where sponsorship is granted during the period, ending on 31 December in each year, unless the Authority determines an alternative specified reporting period or frequency. (3) For the purposes of Section 26(s) of the Act, the compliance statement shall contain the information under Schedule 3 and shall relate to the period between the end of the last reporting period and the date of the report. (4) Where sponsorship is terminated under Section 36 of the Act, a Sponsored Party shall submit a final compliance statement within 60 days after the date of termination. (5) Where sponsorship is being assigned pursuant to Section 40 of the Act, the Sponsored Party shall provide to the Authority a compliance report in conjunction with the application for the Minister's consent to the assignment. (6) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the reports in order to be satisfied that: (a) any instances of non-compliance have been appropriately addressed; (b) the cause or suspected cause of the non-compliance has been identified; and (c) the actions taken to mitigate any adverse effects and prevent recurrence of the non-compliance are reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances. (7) Where the Chief Executive Officer is not satisfied with any statements made in the report relating to the matters contemplated by subregulation (6), he or she may: (a) request further information from the Sponsored Party; or (b) require the holder to submit an amended report. (8) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA on any instances of non-compliance and following such consultation may recommend to the Board that appropriate administrative action be taken under Section 36 of the Act and these Regulations, including the issue of a compliance direction under regulation 47. (9) A Sponsored Party who, without reasonable cause contravenes subregulations (1), (4) and (5) is liable to a penalty of $5,000 for each day during which the non-compliance continues.; Section 36. Management and control of accidents and hazards. (1) A Sponsored Party, its Affiliates and Associates shall pursue Continual Improvement in their Management Systems, including through specifying the requirements for the audit of such systems and the frequency of such audits. (2) The Authority may request the Sponsored Party at any time to review its Management Systems, or that of its Affiliates or Associates and to provide to the Authority sufficient information to demonstrate that: (a) the Sponsored Party’s Management System is adequate to ensure: (i) that the relevant provisions of the Act, these Regulations and the relevant Rules of the ISA will, in respect of matters within the Sponsored Party’s control, be complied with; and (ii) that the management of arrangements with Affiliates and Associates is satisfactory; (b) the procedures and arrangements described in the Management System documentation which may affect the health and safety of persons or the marine environment are followed; (c) the Sponsored Party has established adequate arrangements for audit and for the making of reports of the audit, including audit of the Management Systems of its Affiliates and Associates; (d) all accidents and hazards with the potential to cause a major accident or incident have been identified; and (e) all major accident and hazard risks have undergone a risk assessment process to determine that their likelihood and consequences assessed, including any health, safety and Environmental Risks and that suitable Control Measures, have been, or will be, taken to control those risks to ensure that the relevant Rules of the ISA and these regulations will be complied with. (3) In this regulation, ‘audit’ means the continual and systematic assessment of the adequacy of the Management System to achieve the purpose referred to in subregulation (2)(a) carried out by a qualified person in accordance with Good Industry Practice. (4) Details of the qualified person carrying out the audit, including name and qualifications shall be submitted together with the information provided under subregulation (2). (5) The demonstration of the matters referred to in subregulation (1)(e) shall include the response effectiveness of the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan in respect of the Seabed Minerals Activities, as well as the adequacy of the Health and Safety Plan. (6) This regulation is to be applied consistently with the relevant Rules of the ISA and with a view to avoiding any duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements.; Section 38. Inquiries into incidents. (1) For the purpose of Section 62 of the Act, the Authority may, in cooperation with the ISA and other concerned organisations or otherwise, initiate an inquiry into any incident with a view of: (a) establishing available facts and findings in respect of the incident; (b) acquiring information to be used for the future management of the effects of the incident; (c) avoiding, minimising and managing the future risk of incidents; (d) forming a view as to whether enforcement action should be taken against the Sponsored Party under the Act or these Regulations. (2) As part of any inquiry into an incident, the Authority shall form a view on: (a) the facts and circumstances of the incident; (b) the actual, likely, or possible causes of and contributing factors to the incident; (c) the extent of any harm to the environment, any person, or any interest arising from the incident; (d) the actions taken in response to the Incident and the effectiveness of those actions taken by any person to mitigate or remedy the harm caused by the Incident; (e) potential future consequences of the incident, and options for preventing or minimising those consequences; (f) options for mitigating the risk of future incidents, whether or not of a similar nature to the Incident that is the subject of the inquiry. (3) After completing an inquiry, the Authority shall: (a) prepare a report setting out its findings, recommendations, if any, arising from the inquiry; views and (b) provide a copy of the report to the Minister and the ISA; (c) make available to the public the final report, including through publication on its website; and (d) consider any action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations. (4) An inquiry shall be conducted as soon as practicable after an incident. (5) The Authority may: (a) conduct the inquiry itself or appoint an approved expert to conduct it and make a report to the Authority; and (b) invite any person contributing to or directly affected by the incident, representatives of the ISA, other relevant organisations and flag States and other persons having knowledge or facts of the incident to present information at the inquiry.; Section 41. (a). the relevant qualifications and experience of persons appointed as observers by the Authority; (b) the training, supervision and direction of observers; (c) a code of conduct for observers; (d) the reporting requirements for observers, including the frequency and content of such reporting; and (e) cooperation with ISA inspectors, or other authorised representatives of the ISA. Transfer of observers of the Authority A Sponsored Party shall, to the extent practicable, comply with any reasonable request of the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority to:; Section 42. (a). transfer any duly appointed observer of the Authority to or from any vessel used for the Seabed Mineral Activities, together with any necessary equipment; (b) provide such observers with appropriate accommodation and subsistence and access to communication equipment while on board any vessel; and (c) notify the Chief Executive Officer of proposed vessel schedules in a timely manner to facilitate the transfer of the Authority’s observers and representatives. Observers powers and functions (1) An observer shall, for the purposes of monitoring the Seabed Mineral Activities while onboard a vessel: (a) question any relevant person engaged by the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities on any matter relating to the compliance of the Sponsored Party with the Act, these Regulations and the Sponsorship Agreement; (b) request any relevant person to produce any document that is necessary to monitor the Sponsored Party’s compliance and examine such a document and make a copy of it; (c) examine any equipment that records data and information; and (d) document any activity using any means to do so, including video, audio, photograph, or other form of recording. (2) An observer shall report to the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with the Applicable Guideline and provide a final report to the Chief Executive Officer within 30 days following the completion of his or her duties. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall review the report, and following any consultation with the Sponsored Party on the report provide to the Board his or her comments and recommendations for the Board’s consideration.; Section 44. Real-time data and monitoring. (1) A Sponsored Party shall, when conducting Seabed Mineral Activities pursuant to the relevant Rules of the ISA and this regulation gather and monitor real-time data using an independent, automatic, and continual monitoring system capable of recording, storing, and transmitting data. (2) To assist the Authority in monitoring compliance of the Sponsored Party, the Sponsored Party shall transmit to the Authority such types of operational and monitoring data required under the relevant Rules of the ISA at the same time such data is transmitted to the ISA under the relevant rules of the ISA, taking into consideration any technical limitations on the transmission of such data in real-time.; Section 45. ISA inspection reports. The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days of the date of receipt of an ISA inspection report: (a) review the report;; Section 46. (b). consult with the Sponsored Party on the results and recommendations of the report; (c) make any recommendations to the Board following such consultation, including any compliance or enforcement action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations; and (d) provide comments to the ISA on the report together with details of any regulatory action taken or to be taken by the Authority. Compliance directions (1) The Authority may by Board resolution issue a compliance direction under these Regulations for the purpose of: (a) securing compliance with a requirement under the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition of a under an ISA contract or a Sponsorship Agreement; or (b) preventing or bringing to an end specified activities that have been determined by the ISA or another authorised investigative process that includes consultation with the Sponsored Party to be contrary to the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition under an ISA contract or a sponsorship agreement. (2) A compliance direction: (a) shall be in the form of a written notice given to the Sponsored Party’s duly designated representative; (b) shall specify the grounds on which it is issued; and (c) may impose any requirement reasonably required for the purpose for which the direction is issued and consistent with the Sponsored Party’s obligations under the relevant Rules of the ISA, the Act, these Regulations, or a term or condition of an ISA contract or a Sponsorship Agreement including 1 or more of the following that the Sponsored Party: (i) discontinue, or not commence, specified operations indefinitely or for a specified period or until further notice from the Authority; (ii) not carry on specified operations except at specified times or subject to specified conditions; (iii) take specified action or measures within a specified period; or (iv) submit a Performance Improvement Plan for the Authority to consider. (3) The Authority may, by written notice given to the duly designated representative to whom a compliance direction is issued, vary or revoke the direction. (4) The representative to whom a compliance direction relates shall ensure compliance with a direction under this regulation within the time allowed in the direction. (5) The Chief Executive Officer shall consult with the ISA prior to the issue of a compliance direction under this regulation with a view to avoiding any duplication of compliance and enforcement action, unless the content of the compliance direction relates to a Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Qualification Criteria under the Act, these Regulations or a term or condition of a Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 48. (a). provide to the ISA a copy of any direction issued under this regulation; or (b) consult with the ISA on any regulatory compliance or enforcement action taken, or to be taken by the ISA in respect of the matters contemplated by subregulation (1) and provide the results of such consultation to the Board for its consideration under subregulation (3). Application for review of direction (1) A Sponsored Party required to comply with a direction under regulations 46 or 47 may request the Authority in writing to review the grounds for the issue of the direction within 48 hours of receipt of the relevant direction, or such other time as the Chief Executive Officer, in consultation with the Sponsored Party may approve. (2) A Sponsored Party shall include in its request such information it considers necessary for the Authority to take into consideration in reviewing the grounds for the issue of a direction. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall, within 5 days of receipt of the request, review such request in consultation with the Sponsored Party and where necessary the ISA, and issue his or her recommendation to the Board. (4) Subject to subregulation (5), an application for review of a direction shall not suspend operation of the direction. (5) On review of a direction, the Authority may: (a) confirm the direction with or without modification; or (b) revoke the direction. (6) Any review under subregulation (3), shall consider any regulatory compliance or enforcement action to be taken by the ISA in respect of the same matter to which the direction relates. (7) The Authority may determine that an application for review of a direction is suspended upon receipt of an application for review under subregulation (1).; Section 49. Non-compliance with directions. (1) A Sponsored Party which does not comply with a direction under regulations 46 or 47 is liable to pay a penalty not exceeding $1,000,000. (2) It is a defence for a Sponsored Party subject to the payment of a penalty under subregulation (1) that:; Section 50. (a). the Sponsored Party took all reasonable steps within its control to ensure that the required action would be complied with in time; or (b) compliance with the direction would cause the Sponsored Party to breach or is inconsistent with other obligations, including obligations under a corresponding ISA contract and the relevant Rules of the ISA. Whistle-blowing procedures (1) The Authority shall, in cooperation with the ISA, the Sponsored Party and relevant stakeholders establish a whistle-blowing policy and mechanism for its own staff and personnel of a Sponsored Party, its Affiliates and Associates to raise genuine concerns in respect of the activities or practices of the Sponsored Party, its Affiliates or Associates, or the Authority in the implementation of the Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and other applicable enactments. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall, in cooperation with the Sponsored Party and the ISA where appropriate, promptly investigate, verify and deal with any credible report received relating to any allegation of non-compliance or potential non-compliance with the Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and other applicable enactments by the Sponsored Party, its Associates and Affiliates or by the staff of the Authority. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall prepare a report of findings and recommendations within 10 days of completing such investigation for the Board’s consideration. (4) The Board shall within 30 days following the date of receipt of the report: (5) (6) (7) (a) consider any regulatory or other action to be taken under the Act or these Regulations; (b) cooperate, through the Chief Executive Officer with the ISA on any matter relating to potential non-compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (c) provide to the Minister details of any matters relating to noncompliance by the staff of the Authority for his or her consideration. Where the Board decides to take any action under subregulation (4), prior to taking such action: (a) the Board shall give notice in writing to the Sponsored Party or person or persons against whom the Board proposes to take action, together with a copy of the Chief Executive Officer’s report of findings and recommendations to the Board; (b) within 30 days following the date of receipt of any notice under subregulation (5)(a), the person or persons against whom the Board has decided to take action may appeal the Board’s decision in writing to the Board. Within 14 days following the date of receipt of any appeal under subregulation (5)(b), the Board shall: (a) accept the appeal and withdraw its decision to take any action under subregulation (4); or (b) reject the appeal and provide reasons for its rejection to the relevant person or persons, and proceed to take necessary steps to proceed with any action under subregulation (4). In the absence of any appeal under subregulation (5), the Board shall confirm its decision to take any action under subregulation (4).; Section 51. Application for approval to assign rights and obligations under an ISA. contract (1) For the purposes of Section 40(4) of the Act, if the intended assignee is under Nauru’s effective control, the Sponsored Party and intended assignee shall apply jointly in writing to the Authority for the issue of a new Sponsorship Certificate to such assignee, being a body corporate registered or incorporated in the Republic or a Nauruan public enterprise. (2) The application shall be accompanied by: (a) a certified copy of the relevant transfer agreement or instrument concluded or to be concluded between the sponsored party and the intended assignee; (b) a copy of the application for approval to transfer rights and obligations under an ISA contract made to the ISA; (c) a statement of the reasons for the assignment and details of the activities to be conducted by the intended assignee for the remaining term of ISA contract; (d) a statement of the intended assignee’s ability to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act supported by the relevant information prescribed in Schedule 1 to these Regulations; (e) an undertaking that the intended assignee assumes all of the obligations of the transferor; (f) a final compliance statement under regulation 32(5); and (g) the applicable fee. (3) The application may include a statement of any matter that the Sponsored Party and intended assignee requests the Authority, the Minister and the Cabinet to consider in deciding whether to consent and approve to the assignment. (4) Where the Authority requests further information pursuant to Section 40(8)(c) of the Act, the Sponsored Party or intended assignee shall, within 10 days after receiving such request provide the information requested.; Section 53. Notification of change of ownership, constitution or control of a. Sponsored Party (1) For the purposes of Section 41(2) of the Act a notification by the Sponsored Party shall: (a) be given as soon as practicable before the change and where it is not practicable to notify before the change, such change shall be notified no later than 20 days after the effective date of the significant change; (b) be accompanied by: (c) (i) a copy of any agreement or other relevant document or instrument that specifies the change; (ii) full particulars of the new owners or controllers, including their beneficial owners; include a declaration: (i) from the Sponsored Party that it continues to meet the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of the Act; and (ii) in the case of the change of control of a guarantor of any Security Deposit provided under Section 52 of the Act or any performance guarantee or bond provided under the relevant Rules of the ISA, a statement from the guarantor that it has the financial capability to meet its obligations under any such deposit, guarantee or bond. (2) Where, pursuant to Section 41(4) of the Act, the Authority determines that one or more Qualification Criteria is not met in a material particular, the Authority shall issue a compliance direction under regulation 46 requiring the Sponsored Party to rectify any deficiency within 30 days or such longer period as the Authority considers reasonable in the circumstances.; Section 57. Periodic Review of Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) Pursuant to Section 11(1)(l) of the Act, the Sponsored Party and the Authority shall undertake a joint annual review of the Seabed Mineral Activities, at intervals not exceeding 5-years from the date of the sponsorship certificate. (2) In order to avoid any unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements, the timing of such reviews shall, where practicable, coincide with the review of a Plan of Work by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA and where the Authority is invited to participate in such ISA reviews. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Authority may request a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Nothing in this regulation shall preclude the Authority or the Sponsored Party from making a request to initiate a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (5) The Authority may invite representatives from the ISA, any relevant Ministry, or Approved Experts to participate in the joint review. (6) A review under this regulation will be conducted in accordance with the Applicable Guideline.; Section 58. Information to be submitted on termination of sponsorship or cessation. of Seabed Mineral Activities Upon termination of a Sponsorship Certificate or a cessation of Seabed Mineral Activities a Sponsored Party shall submit the following information to the Authority: (a) a statement, accompanied by supporting evidence: (i) that where applicable, the Closure Plan has been or will be implemented effectively; (ii) that significant residual Environmental Risks and effects have been identified and will be monitored and managed in accordance with the Closure Plan; (iii) that all remediation, restoration rehabilitation required to be undertaken under the Closure Plan has been completed or will be put in place; (b) details of the expected costs to implement the closure requirements under paragraph (a); (c) the final compliance statement, final seabed minerals recovery payment report and any other technical reports that may be requested by the Authority or required under the Applicable Guideline; (d) the following declarations, in the form of a statutory declaration: (i) a declaration that the Seabed Mineral Activities have ceased; (ii) a declaration that there are no outstanding liabilities under the Act or these Regulations; (iii) a declaration that all fees, royalties, or penalties under the Act or these Regulations have been paid; (iv) a declaration that outlines any legal proceedings in respect of the Seabed Mineral Activities that involve the Sponsored Party as a party to those proceedings; and (v) a declaration that demonstrates that the Sponsored Party has the financial resources to meet the expected costs to implement the requirements of the Closure Plan, where applicable.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 10. Objectives of the Authority. The Authority must: (a) provide a stable, transparent, predictable and accountable regime within Nauru for the sponsorship and supervision of Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) maintain effective control of Seabed Mineral Activities undertaken under this Act and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; (c) ensure compliance by Sponsored Parties or any sub-contractors engaged by the State or Sponsored Parties in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities with relevant rules and internationally agreed standards; (d) maximise the economic and development benefits from Seabed Mineral Activities for Nauru and its people; (e) in its decision-making, take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under section 17 of this Act or from Cabinet; and (f) act in a way that is compatible with principles of best regulatory practice, including that regulatory activities should be proportionate, accountable, consistent, transparent and targeted only at cases where needed.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Nauruan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to applications, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (c) conduct due diligence enquiries into Sponsorship Applicants or Sponsored Parties; (d) receive and evaluate Sponsorship Applications; (e) recommend to Cabinet whether Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted or not, and if permitted, on what terms; (f) if approved by Cabinet, prepare and issue Certificates of Sponsorship for successful Sponsorship Applicants; (g) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract; (h) maintain Nauru’s and its Sponsored Parties’ understanding of and compliance with international laws, standards and rules relevant to Seabed Mineral Activities; (i) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (j) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for Nauru to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (k) require and review relevant reports and information, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (l) with Cabinet approval, establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by Nauru to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities, and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (m) insofar as they are not prescribed by law, negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (n) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of Nauru’s Seabed Mineral Activities including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, technical matters and the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, including from experts outside of the country. (2) The Cabinet may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 22. Content of a sponsorship application. A Sponsorship Application must be made in writing to the Authority and must: (a) provide evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; and (b) include: (i) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) written undertakings by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (A) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (B) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (C) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship by Nauru; (c) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) an indication of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed: (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease, bond or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (f) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from Nauru; (g) a capacity building programme for the training of citizens of Nauru; (h) the application fee required under this Act; (i) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA and international law; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (j) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 23. Qualification criteria. (1) The Authority shall review any Sponsorship Application received, and may recommend to Cabinet, the issue of a Sponsorship Certificate if it is satisfied that: (a) the undertakings required by section 22 have been given; (b) the Qualification Criteria are met; and (c) that the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) will not result in irreparable harm to any community, cultural practice or industry in Nauru; and (ii) would be generally in the public interest, taking into account the potential for capacity-building, local employment and the long-term benefit to Nauru. (2) The Qualification Criteria are that: (a) the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in Nauru; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (A) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (B) cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has paid any applicable fees; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect:; Section 28. Duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities. Any Sponsored Party is required, inter alia, to: (a) adhere to the provisions of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers so as to ensure compliance with the Rules of the ISA and any other instructions or requests of the ISA; (c) facilitate the ISA’s regulation and the Authority’s monitoring of Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to section 31 of this Act; (d) apply the Precautionary Principle, and employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards in order to avoid, mitigate or remedy adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) offer to Nauru opportunities for training in relation to, and participation in, the Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy Nauru of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; (g) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an Incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the Incident, including by seeking and following the ISA’s, and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (h) submit to the ISA and the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; or (ii) the programme of work contained in the contract between the Sponsored Party and the ISA; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the Rules of the ISA; (i) at all material times to ensure that: (i) any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (A) the laws of the flag state relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; (B) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (A) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (B) comply with the laws of the flag state relating to the safety of life at sea; (C) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which Nauru is a contracting State. (j) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (k) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior specific written consent from the ISA to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause significant adverse impact to: (i) the Marine Environment; or (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; and (l) upon submitting data, reports or other information to the ISA in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities, ensure that the content of these documents are true, accurate and comprehensive, and provide copies of the same to the Authority.; Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the Rules of the ISA and shall be liable for the actual amount of any compensation, damage or penalties arising out of its failure so to comply, or out of any wrongful acts or omissions in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) By operation of this section, Nauru shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power to make such examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as are necessary to meet responsibilities under international law, which may include the: its (a) sending of an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities and vessel or premises of the Sponsored Party; and (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, from time to time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection 1(a) shall take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels. (3) Where an inspection is carried out in accordance with subsection 1(b), the Authority may direct any person to furnish within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to any Sponsorship Certificate or Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person or party who fails to comply with a direction issued under this section commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $100,000 or imprisonment for 10 years or both.; Section 32. Administrative Action. (1) In the event of the Authority determining that a Sponsored Party has materially breached, or in the Authority’s reasonable opinion is at serious risk of materially breaching the Rules of the ISA, the Authority may: (a) issue written warnings in relation to possible action the Authority may take in the event of future material breaches; (b) enter into a written agreement for the Sponsored Party to undertake a programme of remedial action and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (c) issue a written notice requiring the Sponsored Party to take specified action, or not take specified action, aimed to stop, remedy or mitigate the risk of occurrence or re-occurrence of material breach; (d) in the case of actual material breach: (i) impose upon the Sponsored Party monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $100,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm; (ii) commence a process under section 39 of this Act to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate. (2) Action taken under subsection (1) must be commensurate with the gravity, frequency and other circumstances of the material or reasonably anticipated breach, including the Sponsored Party’s previous conduct under Nauru’s Sponsorship.; Section 37. Surrender of sponsorship. A Sponsored Party may at any time surrender a Sponsorship Certificate without penalty by giving to the Authority not less than three months’ previous notice in writing to that effect.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 15. Requirements of the Sponsorship Application. A Sponsorship Application under Section 14(1) shall comply with the following requirements: (a) provide a duly completed application form; (b) provide documentary evidence to demonstrate that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; (c) provide a copy of the application for the approval of a plan of work to obtain a corresponding contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) provide a written undertaking to the Republic by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) together with its relevant Associates and Affiliates shall fully comply with the obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warrants that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship of the Republic; (e) provide a written report or any other form of record containing the studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities is intended to be conducted; (f) provide a written report or any other form of report conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (g) provide details of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed insurance, contingency funding or other methods proposed to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an incident; (h) provide the name, address and email and telephone contact or any other details of any Affiliate or Associate and a list of key personnel required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities and an indication if any of these are to be recruited from the Republic; (i) where applicable, provide a projection based on the current project details of the Seabed Mineral recovery payment and other amounts payable to the Republic; (j) provide a proposal for capacity building programme for the training of citizens of the Republic; (k) the requirements of this Act and any prescribed requirements; (l) provide a statement as to whether the Sponsored Applicant, its Associates, Affiliates or any of their directors and officers has previously been found on credible evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities; (ii) breached the relevant Rules of the ISA, any written law or applicable international law; (iii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in the Republic or another jurisdiction; or (iv) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; and (m) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 17. Qualification Criteria for issuance of Sponsorship Certificate. The Qualification Criteria for a Sponsorship Applicant are as follows: (a) the applicant is an existing body corporate, incorporated and registered in the Republic or a public enterprise under the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (i) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) cover the costs of any potential liability arising from incidents, accidents, pollution, or any other serious harm occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) respond to any incident; (c) has adequate risk management strategies, capability and management systems to meet health and safety and environmental requirements under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) has implemented a system of corporate governance and transparency to support the proper performance of obligations under an ISA Contract, including the effective monitoring and management of Affiliates and Associates; (e) has implemented policies and codes of conduct that prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment or bullying and promote diversity and equality in the workplace; and (f) that each director or officer, its Affiliates and Associates that are involved in the management of the Sponsorship Applicant’s business, engaged or to be engaged in the conduct of all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities and their directors or officers, have not, in any jurisdiction been: (i) found on credible evidence to have breached a term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct seabed mineral activities or similar sea or land-based activity; (ii) convicted of an offence relating to the conduct of seabed mineral activities or other sea or land-based exploration or exploitation activity under any natural resource, health and safety, or environmental laws; or (iii) convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (g) in considering the criteria under paragraph (f), the Authority shall take into account the seriousness and impact of the Sponsorship Applicant’s conduct or that of a director or officer, or relevant Affiliate or Associate, and any mitigating circumstances, including any remedial action taken and the time elapsed since any breach or conviction; and (h) has paid the applicable fee.; Section 26. Sponsored Party’s duties pertaining to Seabed Mineral. Activities A Sponsored Party undertaking Seabed Mineral Activities shall: (a) adhere to the provisions of the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees or agents so as to ensure compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, any other instructions or requests of the ISA or the Authority; (c) facilitate inspections, audit and monitoring of its Seabed Mineral Activities by the ISA and the Authority in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act and comply with the reasonable requests, directions or orders of the ISA inspectors, or of Authority observers made pursuant to Section 31; (d) apply the precautionary approach, and employ best environmental practices and best available techniques in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA to avoid, mitigate or remedy harmful effects of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment and prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards; (e) facilitate training and participation of Nauruans and the Republic at large in Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) have a current and appropriate insurance policy in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA, any other guarantees or contingency funding that may be prescribed or agreed to between the Sponsored Party and the Authority, that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities; (g) promptly notify the Authority of the occurrence of an event that does or is reasonably likely to entitle the Sponsored Party to make a claim under the insurance policy; (h) report to the ISA and the Authority immediately in the event of an incident occurring or appearing reasonably likely to occur, and respond efficiently and responsibly to the incident, including by implementing the Contingency Plan and seeking and following the ISA’s and the Authority’s directions where appropriate; (i) submit to the Authority immediately in writing, notice of any new information arising or data collected that may materially affect: (i) the Qualification Criteria; (ii) the programme of work contained in the ISA Contract; or (iii) the Sponsored Party’s ability to adhere to the terms of the ISA Contract or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (j) at all times ensure that any vessels, installations and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with: (i) the laws of the flag State relating to international vessel standards developed to ensure maritime safety and security, good working and living conditions and protection of the marine environment; and (ii) all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; (iii) the requirements of maintaining records of ownership including beneficial ownership of vessels involved or engaged by a Sponsored Party for Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (k) at all times ensure that working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities: (i) meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (ii) comply with the laws of the flag State relating to the safety of life at sea; (iii) comply with all relevant standards in international shipping conventions to which the Republic is a contracting State; and (iv) the requirements of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on High Risk Countries, designated persons or entities; (l) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with relevant international law or the Rules of the ISA; (m) obtain specific prior written consent from the ISA in order to proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities if it has been determined by the Sponsored party, the ISA or the Authority that to proceed is reasonably likely to cause, according to the relevant Rules of the ISA serious harm to: (i) the Marine Environment; (ii) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research, navigation, submarine cables, fisheries or conservation activities; (n) ensure that the content of reports, data or information provided to the ISA are comprehensive, true and accurate and provide copies of such reports, data or information to the Authority; (o) conduct environmental impact assessment procedures in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and submit the resulting environmental impact statement to the Authority, for review before submission to the ISA; (p) maintain sound systems of corporate governance and transparency and apply ethical business practices; (q) implement, maintain and continually improve health, safety and environmental management systems according to internationally recognised standards or the relevant Rules of the ISA; (r) take reasonable and appropriate measures to ensure that the Seabed Mineral Activities carried out under an ISA Contract are executed by and under the supervision of appropriately qualified, experienced and skilled personnel; (s) provide a compliance statement containing the prescribed information annually coinciding with Nauru’s financial year; and (t) comply with other requirements as may be prescribed and the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 27. Sponsored Party’s obligations in relation to Affiliates and. Associates (1) Subject to this Section, a Sponsored Party may engage any Associate or Affiliate to undertake all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any agreement or other arrangement between the Sponsored Party and any Associates or Affiliates engaged or to be engaged in all or any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities, shall contain appropriate terms and conditions by which the Associate or Affiliate agrees to comply with the Rules of the ISA and this Act, to the extent applicable to the activities undertaken by such Affiliate or Associate. (3) A Sponsored Party shall ensure that all Affiliates and Associates: (a) undertaking all or a material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities authorised by the ISA Contract are made aware of the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) perform their work and tasks in conformity with the Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (c) permit the Authority or any Approved Expert appointed by the Authority to conduct an audit of any documents, records or information to verify compliance with the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (4) The Authority may request the Sponsored Party to provide documentary evidence, including copies of any relevant contracts and agreements concluded with relevant Associates or Affiliates to verify the requirements set out under subsection (2). (5) A Sponsored Party who delegates, contracts, or otherwise arranges for work or tasks under the ISA Contract to be carried out by an Affiliate, Associate or other third party is not discharged from the Sponsored Party’s obligations under the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (6) A Sponsored Party shall notify the Authority in writing of any proposed changes to the Affiliates or Associates that will undertake any material part of the Seabed Mineral Activities on behalf of the Sponsored Party, not less than 30 days before the proposed date of the commencement of the proposed change. (7) The Authority may request that the Sponsored Party provide it with further information to determine that the Sponsored Party continues to satisfy the Qualification Criteria under Section 17 of this Act. (8) Any direction or warning issued to a Sponsored Party by the Authority shall extend to any Affiliate or Associate engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities for or on behalf of the Sponsored Party and the Sponsored Party shall give a copy of the direction to the Affiliate or Associate where the direction is relevant to the work or tasks being performed by such Associate or Affiliate. (9) Nothing in this Section precludes the Authority from issuing a direction directly to any relevant Affiliate or Associate. (10) A Sponsored Party that fails to comply with the requirements of this Section commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $500,000.; Section 29. Liability of Sponsored Party. (1) A Sponsored Party shall be: (a) responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage: (i) arising out of its failure to comply with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; and (ii) as a consequence of any act or omission in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (c) liable for any penalties arising out of its failure to comply with this UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The Republic shall be indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to a Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities, including any acts or omission of the part of the Sponsored Party’s employees, except to the extent such actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims or demands arise from acts or omissions by the Authority in exercise of its powers and functions under this Act. (3) A Sponsored Party is required, together with any relevant Affiliate or Associate to execute a guarantee and indemnity in a form that is acceptable to the Authority, to indemnify the Authority and the Republic against any liability incurred by the Republic whether under the UNCLOS or otherwise arising from the conduct of the Sponsored Party’s Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 30. Responsibilities of Nauru as a Sponsoring State. Where the Republic is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a corresponding ISA Contract to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, the Government or through the Authority shall: (a) take all appropriate means to exercise its Effective Control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the Republic, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (c) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (d) promote the application of the precautionary approach and implementation of best environmental practices and best available techniques in cooperation with the ISA and the Sponsored Party; (e) comply with its due diligence obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (f) within its competence and capabilities and in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA, adopt a plan to implement and modify measures for the effective protection of the Marine Environment which may arise from Seabed Mineral Activities, in cooperation with the ISA or on the advice of Approved Experts; (g) cooperate with the ISA to provide such data and information as is reasonably necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) assist the ISA in carrying out supervision, monitoring, audits and inspections of the Sponsored Party and cooperate with coastal States and flag States where relevant, with the aim to ensure the Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (i) assist the Sponsored Party in any interaction with the ISA relating to the administration of the ISA Contract, including clarification of any requirements under the Rules of the ISA; (j) provide the Sponsored Party with copies of any information or notices received by the Authority from the ISA, States Parties, other regulatory bodies or persons relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (k) accord the Sponsored Party fair and equitable treatment, and provide a stable and predictable legal framework and make decisions consistently and transparently; (l) keep the Sponsored Party informed of any amendments to any written law and the regulatory regime that may affect a Sponsored Party or their Seabed Mineral Activities and provide a Sponsored Party sufficient time to ensure that they are able to comply with those changes; (m) not nationalise or expropriate a Sponsored Party’s investment or take measures having effect equivalent to nationalisation or expropriation except for on a non-discriminatory basis and against prompt adequate and effective compensation, such compensation shall: (i) amount to the genuine value of the Sponsored Party’s investment immediately before the expropriation or before the impending expropriation becomes public knowledge whichever is the earlier; (ii) include interest at a normal commercial rate until the date of payment; (iii) be made without delay; (iv) be effectively realisable; and (v) be freely transferable; (n) accord all Sponsored Parties treatment no less favourable that the treatment it accords, in like situations, to other investors; (o) accord Sponsored Parties full security and protection; and (p) guarantee the conversion and transfer overseas of Sponsored Parties’ earnings and savings or earnings of expatriate personnel, their affiliates and subcontractors, resulting from the Seabed Minerals Activities.; Section 31. Monitoring powers. (1) The Authority shall have the power, whether acting on its own or in cooperation with the ISA, to conduct examinations, inspections and enquiries of Sponsored Parties, Affiliates or Associates and the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities as is necessary to meet the Republic’s responsibilities under any written law or international law, which may include: (a) sending an observer to the site of the Seabed Mineral Activities, vessel installation or premises of the Sponsored Party, Affiliates or Associates; (b) inspection of relevant books, records and other relevant data, at any time, upon giving reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party; or (c) use of real time monitoring technologies. (2) An observer engaged in accordance with subsection (1)(a) shall: (a) take all reasonable steps to avoid interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels; and (b) follow all instructions and directions pertaining to the safety of life at sea given to them by the master of the vessel or other relevant safety officers aboard vessels and installations. (3) The Authority may direct any person to furnish it within a reasonable time any information it reasonably believes is in that person’s possession which: (a) relates to the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) is otherwise directly relevant to the discharge of the Authority’s functions. (4) A person who without reasonable excuse fails to comply with a direction issued under this Section, commits an offence and shall upon conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding $200,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years, or to both.; Section 32. Administrative Action. (1) In the event of the Authority determining, on factual evidence that a Sponsored Party, Associate or Affiliate has breached or in the Authority’s reasonable opinion is at serious risk of breaching the relevant Rules of the ISA, this Act, Regulations or the terms and conditions of the Sponsorship Agreement, the Authority may: (a) issue written warnings including warnings in relation to possible action the Authority may take in the event of future material breaches; (b) enter into a written agreement providing for the Sponsored Party to undertake a programme of remedial action and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (c) issue a written notice requiring the Sponsored Party to take specified preventative or corrective, timebound action or not take specified action, aimed to stop, remedy or mitigate the risk of occurrence or reoccurrence of the breach; or (d) in the case of actual material breach: (i) impose upon the Sponsored Party monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $2,000,000 which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm caused; or (ii) commence a process under Sections 42 and 43 to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate. (2) An action undertaken under subsection (1), shall: (a) be commensurate with the gravity, frequency and other circumstances of the material or reasonably anticipated breach, including the Sponsored Party’s previous conduct under the Republic’s Sponsorship; and (b) consider any penalty imposed or other action undertaken by the ISA in relation to the same breach. (3) The Authority shall publish details of any action undertaken under this Section in the Gazette, except for any confidential information.; Section 33. Records and Confidentiality. (1) The Authority shall keep and maintain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issued, Sponsorship Agreements, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority shall securely keep and maintain all confidential information received in accordance with the prescribed procedures, and shall not disclose such information unless: (a) it is permitted to be disclosed under Section 52 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) the disclosure is made for the purposes of or in connection with, the performance or exercise of any function, power or duty conferred under this Act or any other written law; (c) the disclosure is required by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator agreed to by the Parties; (d) the disclosure is made in connection with proceedings or any investigation or inquiry for proceedings, for an offence against this Act or any other enactment; (e) the information is: (i) required by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (ii) requested by the Secretary-General of the ISA or their designated representative in writing together with an explanation that such information is necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS; (iii) such that the Authority considers it may assist the ISA in securing compliance of a Sponsored Party under Article 153(4) of the UNCLOS; or (iv) required by another national regulatory agency where the Authority believes the information may assist such agency in the exercise of its powers or performance of its functions under an enactment relating to the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (f) the information is reasonably required by Approved Experts engaged by the Authority in the performance of their services, provided: (i) that such experts undertake in writing to keep the information confidential; and (ii) the disclosure is reasonably necessary in connection with the Authority in exercising its functions under this Act; or (g) the information is publicly available; (3) Where confidential information is required to be disclosed under subsection (2)(a) to (f), the Authority shall inform the Sponsored Party prior to such disclosure taking place. (4) Where the Authority intends to disclose any confidential information, the disclosure of which is not provided for under subsection (2), the Authority shall consult with the Sponsored Party about the content and nature of such disclosure and shall agree any disclosure with the Sponsored Party before any such disclosure occurs and subject to any terms and conditions that the parties consider appropriate. (5) Where the Authority becomes aware of a suspected or actual breach of this Section, the Authority shall immediately inform the Sponsored Party and take all practicable measures to prevent or cease the suspected or actual breach.; Section 37. Directions upon termination of Sponsorship Certificate. (1) The Authority may give directions to the Sponsored Party, where the Sponsorship Certificate is terminated under Section 36, including a direction that: (a) the Sponsored Party continues to comply with all or any of its obligations under this Act, the relevant Rules of the ISA and the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement; (b) copies of any relevant records kept by the Sponsored Party be delivered to the Authority or any other person; or (c) specified measures be undertaken to effectively prevent, contain or minimise any harmful effects to the marine environment. (2) A direction under subsection (1)(c) may impose restrictions on the Seabed Mineral Activities including a requirement to cease all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities and to comply with any instructions of the Authority or the ISA that relate to any restriction or to ceasing the activities. (3) Where the Authority is satisfied that a Sponsored Party has failed without reasonable excuse to comply with a direction given under subsection (1), the Authority may impose a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000.; Section 39. Surrender of sponsorship. A Sponsored Party may at any time surrender a Sponsorship Certificate without penalty by giving to the Authority, not less than 3 months’ notice in writing to that effect.; Section 43. Notice of revocation. (1) Prior to making a decision under Section 42, the Authority shall: (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 60 days’ written notice of the Minister’s intention to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it and inviting the Sponsored Party to make a written submission within a specified timeframe, about the proposed revocation; (b) provide a copy of the notice to any other person as the Authority deems necessary; (c) where applicable, consult with the ISA on the Sponsored Party’s compliance record and any action that may be taken by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; and (d) consider any written submissions provided by the Sponsored Party. (2) Where the final decision taken is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate the Authority shall: (a) notify the ISA in accordance with the Rules of the ISA; (b) provide the Sponsored Party reasons for such termination; and (c) subject to Section 44, provide the Sponsored Party a minimum of 6 months’ notice before that revocation takes effect.; Section 57. Interference with Seabed Mineral Activities or the Authority. (1) No person shall: (a) interfere with any Seabed Mineral Activities or a vessel, installation or equipment used in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) cause: (i) physical hindrance to; (ii) obstruction to; or (iii) violence against, any officer, observer, inspector or other duly designated representative of the Authority or the ISA, or persons engaged by the Sponsored Party in the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities in respect of the exercise of a power, or the performance of a function, under this Act or an ISA contract. (2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a), ‘interfere with’ means: (a) the wilful sabotage or attempted wilful sabotage of Seabed Mineral Activities; or (b) any physical interference with the Seabed Mineral Activities or a vessel, installation or equipment used in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities, such that it causes or is likely to cause a danger to the health and safety of persons engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities. (3) Any person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or to an imprisonment term not exceeding 10 years, or both.; Section 60. Conduct for improper benefit. (1) A Sponsored Party shall not engage in, and shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that its employees, Associates, and Affiliates do not engage in, any activity related to the Sponsorship in exchange for any improper benefit to: (a) the Sponsored Party, any employee, associate, affiliate or any other person, including a friend or family member or any person associated with the Sponsored Party, by personal or other relationship; or (b) any member of the Authority or a technical assistance committee, inspector, observer, officer, public official, or other person acting for or on behalf of the Government. (2) The contravention of subsection (1) shall be a ground for revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition; Section 11. Objectives of the Authority The Authority has the following objectives- (a) The compliance objective - to maintain effective control of Seabed Mineral Activities, by securing compliance by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties with their obligations under this Act; (b) The national interest objective - to promote the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities to maximise benefits to the Kingdom and the people of Tonga; (c) The protection objective - (i) to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; and (ii) to protect the well-being of individuals and communities insofar as may be impacted by or employed in Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) The accountability objective – to provide a stable, transparent and accountable regime within the Kingdom for the Permitting, Licensing and Sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 12. Functions of the Authority (1) To ensure the implementation of this Act, the Authority has the following functions, to - 2020 Revised Edition Page 15 (a) develop policies for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Tongan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) manage the designation and allocation of Titles, and maintain records of Titles granted and the blocks or cells of seabed to which they relate; (c) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to Applications, Titles, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (d) conduct due diligence enquiry into Applicant Prospectors, Licensees or Sponsored Parties; (e) receive and evaluate Applications to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities under the Kingdom‘s control or sponsorship; (f) review or obtain a review of Environmental Impact Assessments for Seabed Mineral Activities required under this Act and the EIA Act; (g) recommend to Cabinet whether or not Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted, and on what terms; (h) prepare Prospecting Permits, Licences and Sponsorship Certificates; (i) receive and assess reporting documents from Title Holders; (j) monitor the performance and impact of Seabed Mineral Activities, and compliance by Title Holders with the terms of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act, and the relevant Title; (k) monitor the continuing validity of the terms of a Title; (l) effect the amendment of the terms of a Title where expedient, and in accordance with this Act; (m) enforce sanctions for non-compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or a Title; (n) require and review relevant reports and information from Title Holders, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) share information and consult about Seabed Mineral Activities with the general public as appropriate; (p) publish and submit to Parliament an annual report of Seabed Mineral Activities not later than ninety days after the end of each calendar year; (q) provide technical assistance to other Government agencies of the Kingdom in all matters relevant to Seabed Minerals; (r) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisation in accordance with the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea to facilitate the lawful conduct of Seabed Minerals Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment; (s) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, Page 16 2020 Revised Edition scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (2) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-section (1)(s) or (t), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as the Minister may determine, in consultation with the Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (3) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority or Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act.; Section 16. Supply of false or misleading information to the Authority (1) Any person who knowingly or recklessly provides the Authority with information which is false or misleading in a material particular commits an offence if the information — (a) is provided in purported compliance with a requirement imposed by or under this Act; or (b) is provided otherwise than as mentioned in sub-section (1)(a) but in circumstances in which the person providing the information intends, or could reasonably be expected to know, that it would be used by the Authority for the purpose of discharging their functions under this Act. (2) Any person who wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which he is or is liable to be required, by or under this Act, to produce to the Authority commits an offence. (3) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $150,000.; Section 21. Delegation of Powers (1) In performing its functions the Authority shall seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment, at all times where such advice is required and is reasonably available. (2) The Authority, may appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (3) The Authority may in particular appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose as Inspectors, to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring and compliance function. (4) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-sections (2) or (3), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as it may determine, in consultation with Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (5) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority and Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to delegate its other powers, or its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act. Page 20 2020 Revised Edition; Section 22. Inspectors’ Powers (1) Any person appointed by the Authority as an Inspector under section 21(3) of this Act, shall, if reasonably necessary for the purpose of determining compliance with this Act, be entitled at all reasonable times and with reasonable notice to a Title Holder to— (a) board or obtain access to the Licence Area or Contract Area and all parts of any premises, vessel or equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; (b) inspect or test any machinery or equipment that in the Inspector‘s opinion is being or is intended to be used for the purposes of Seabed Mineral Activities and, if the Inspector deems fit, to dismantle, test to destruction or take possession of any such machinery or equipment; (c) remove any samples or assays of such samples from any vessel or equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; (d) examine and take copies of books, accounts, documents or records of any kind required to be kept under this Act, Regulations, and the Title; (e) require the Title Holder to carry out such procedures in respect of any equipment used for or in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities as may be deemed necessary by the Authority; (f) document any site visit or inspection activity using any reasonable means including video, audio, photograph or other form of recording; (g) upon written authorisation from the Authority, perform any other functions of the Authority as its representative, including the issue of Orders under sections 15 (Information Order) and 23 (Enforcement Order) of this Act; and (h) conduct any additional actions as prescribed. (2) An Inspector shall take all reasonable steps to avoid- expending excessive time on a Title Holders‘ vessel or platform at-sea, disruption of Seabed Mineral Activities, or interference with the safe and normal operations on board vessels. (3) A Title Holder and its officers and agents shall make best endeavours to co- operate with the reasonable requests and exercise of powers by an Inspector. (4) The wilful obstruction by any person of the work of an Inspector, or the failure by a Title Holder or its officer or agent to comply with sub-section (3), commits an offence. (5) Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000. 2020 Revised Edition Page 21; Section 24. Action by the Authority if holder fails to comply with Enforcement Order The Authority may do all or any of the corrective actions required by an Enforcement Order made under section 23 of this Act if – (a) the time for compliance specified has ended; and (b) the person to whom the Enforcement Order was given or to whom it extended has not complied with the Order.; Section 27. Administrative Action (1) The Authority may take any one or more of the administrative actions in sub- section (2) in respect of a Title Holder, upon the Authority reasonably determining that the Title Holder has materially breached- (a) a condition or term of its Title; or (b) a requirement of the Act, Regulations or other law of the Kingdom. (2) Administrative actions that the Authority may take in accordance with sub- section (1) are to - (a) issue written warnings, including warnings in relation to possible action the Authority may take in the event of future breaches; (b) enter into a written agreement providing for the Title Holder to undertake a programme of remedial action and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (c) issue Enforcement Orders under section 23 of this Act for the Title Holder to prevent, remedy and mitigate the risk of re-occurrence of breaches; (d) impose an administrative penalty not exceeding $10,000 for each day during which the breach continues; (e) impose temporary restrictions on the Seabed Mineral Activities of the Title Holder until the Authority is satisfied that action has been taken to remedy the breach and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (f) commence a process under section 73 or section 88 of this Act to vary, suspend or revoke the Title, including a variation to impose additional conditions on the Title. (3) Action taken under sub-section (2) shall be commensurate with the gravity, frequency and other circumstances of the breach, including the Title Holder‘s previous conduct under the Title. 2020 Revised Edition Page 23; Section 35. Register open to public inspection (1) The register of Titles maintained by the Authority in accordance with section 34 of this Act shall be open to public inspection during business hours of the Authority. (2) If the Authority so determines, sub-section (1) shall not apply to any particular information where the information is commercially sensitive information pertaining to a third party such as exploration data, or where the publication of that particular information would in the Authority‘s view otherwise not be in the public interest such as personal addresses of Title Holder personnel. (3) The Authority may upon application and payment of a prescribed fee issue a certified copy of any Title or other document filed with the Authority for the purpose of maintaining the register of Titles, which will be admissible in evidence in any court.; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 70. Duties and Liability of Licensee (1) Licensees shall comply with the terms of the Licence, this Act, and any Regulations made under this Act. (2) The Licensee is responsible for the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations carried out within its Licence Area, and their compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, and the Licence. (3) The Licensee shall at all times keep the Kingdom indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to its Seabed Mineral Activities, and will be liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage arising out of its failure to comply with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or the Licence, and any wrongful acts or omissions and those of its employees, officers, subcontractors, and agents in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations under Licence, including but not limited to that arising from injury to coastal or marine users, damage to the Marine Environment, and any related economic loss or compensation. (4) Any obligations which are to be observed and performed by the Licensee shall at any time at which the Licensee is more than one person be joint and several obligations. (5) The Licensee shall remain liable for damage resulting from its Seabed Minerals Activities notwithstanding that its Title may have been terminated or suspended.; Section 73. Variation, suspension, or revocation of a Licence (1) The Authority may vary, suspend, or revoke any Exploration Licence or Mining Licence under this section— (a) where any of the qualification criteria prescribed under regulations ceases to be met by the Licensee in a material particular; (b) if a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (b) the Marine Environment; (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; or (iii) avoid any situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international or domestic peace and security; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Licensee; (e) in order to secure or reasonably to promote compliance by the Licensee with the Licensee‘s obligations and undertakings under this Act, the Regulations and the Licence; (f) if the Licensee has failed to comply with a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to it; (g) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Licensee, or upon the Licensee ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (h) upon consultation with the Licensee, where the Licensee is prevented for a continuous period exceeding two years from undertaking the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities under the Licence despite taking all reasonable measures to do so, because of an event outside of the Licensee‘s control; Page 42 2020 Revised Edition (i) where no material efforts have been made by the Licensee to undertake the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding two years; (j) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Licensee of - (i) a material undertaking or term or condition of the Licence; (ii) the provisions of this Act or Regulations made under this Act or other laws of the Kingdom; (iii) conditions imposed under the EIA Act; or (iv) requirement of an Order made under this Act, and such breach either cannot be remedied or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice by the Authority; (k) where the relevant Seabed Mineral Activities in the view of Cabinet constitute an unacceptable risk to the Kingdom or are clearly no longer in the interests of the Kingdom due to changes in the circumstances pertaining to the Activities including (without limitation) changes to - (i) the market for Seabed Minerals; (ii) best environmental practice pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; or (iii) the state of technology utilised for Seabed Mineral Activities, as well as the capacity of the Licensee to adapt to the changes in circumstances; (l) where any payment owing under section 75 or any part of this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; or (m) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s prior approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section the Authority, shall unless the decision is made at the Licensee‘s request and on the exact terms of the Licensee‘s request, give to the Licensee at least ninety days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of that proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice or a copy of the notice has been given, and who objects to it, to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe. (3) If the Authority has suspended a Licence, it may by notice require the Licensee to resume its activities and comply with the terms and conditions of the Licence, not later than 90 days after such notice. (4) In lieu of variation, suspension or revocation under sub-sections (1)(a), (b), (c), (e), (f), (i), (j), and (l), the Authority may take any of the administrative 2020 Revised Edition Page 43 actions provided for in section 27 of this Act, or impose upon the Licensee monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $1,000,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm. (5) The Authority shall not execute a decision involving monetary penalties under sub-section (4) until the Licensee has been accorded a reasonable opportunity to exhaust the judicial remedies available to it under the laws of the Kingdom. (6) In the event of termination or expiration of a Licence, the Licensee shall comply with the Regulations and shall remove all installations, plant, equipment and materials in the Licensed Area and shall make the Licensed Area and its surroundings safe so as not to constitute a danger to persons, shipping or to the Marine Environment. (7) Upon effecting a variation of a Licence the Authority shall- (a) prepare an instrument of variation signed by the Minister and the designated representative of the Licensee; (b) register the variation to that Licence in the register of Titles, maintained by the Authority under section 34 of this Act; (c) issue to the Licensee a copy of that instrument of variation; and (d) publish notice of the variation in the Gazette.; Section 74. Surrender of a Licence Subject to payment of outstanding sums payable in accordance with section 75 of this Act and without prejudice to any obligation or liability imposed by this Act or Regulations made under this Act, or incurred under any term or condition contained in the Licence, the Licensee may at any time surrender the Licence without penalty by giving to the Authority not less than six months prior notice in writing to that effect.; Section 78. Prerequisite conditions to issue of Sponsorship Certificate A Sponsorship Certificate shall only be issued to a Sponsorship Applicant who – (a) is a body corporate, registered in Tonga; 2020 Revised Edition Page 45 (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities sufficient financial and technical resources and capability to properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (c) has paid any applicable fees under this Act; and (d) has adhered to prescribed Application processes and meets prescribed qualification criteria.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 84. Liability of Sponsored Party (1) The Sponsored Party shall be responsible for the performance of all Seabed Mineral Activities carried out within the Contract Area, and their compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and will be liable for the actual amount of any compensation or damage or penalties arising out of its failure so to comply, or out of any wrongful acts or omissions and those of its employees, officers, subcontractors, and agents in the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (2) Any obligations which are to be observed and performed by the Sponsored Party shall at any time at which the Sponsored Party is more than one person be joint and several obligations. (3) A Sponsored Party shall at all times keep the Kingdom indemnified against all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, claims and demands which may be made or brought by any third party in relation to its Seabed Mineral Activities.; Section 89. Surrender of Sponsorship A Sponsored Party may at any time surrender a Sponsorship Certificate without penalty by giving to the Authority not less than six months' prior notice in writing to that effect.; Section 102. Environmental conditions arising from Environmental Impact Assessment The terms of any environmental conditions arising from an Environmental Impact Assessment conducted in compliance with the EIA Act, shall be adopted as part of the terms and conditions of any Title held under this Act.; Section 123. Regulations and Ministerial Orders The Minister may, with the consent of Cabinet, make Regulations — (a) prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed under this Act; (b) generally for carrying this Act into effect; (c) without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following matters - (i) the gridding, mapping and allocation of blocks, cells and Licence Areas; (ii) classifying particular aspects of work relating to Seabed Minerals as a Major Project under the EIA Act, or absolutely prohibited due to unacceptable anticipated harm to the Marine Environment; (iii) requisite content, format, consultation processes, independent verification, and timeframe for an Environmental Impact Assessment and the establishment of environmental baseline data for Seabed Mineral Activities; (iv) prescribe further rules or processes pertaining to the handling by the Authority of conflicting Applications for the same Title pertaining to the same area; (v) environment management plans, and provision for areas of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf that have features that require a location-specific approach; (vi) prescribing the format, content, timeframe or processes for any Applications, reports or other data or information required under this Act; (vii) matters relating to the processes to be undertaken and the factors to be taken into account by the Authority in deciding whether or not to grant, review, vary, suspend, or revoke a Title; (viii) the terms of and a model version of a Title; (ix) the fiscal regime to be applied to Seabed Mineral Activities; Page 64 2020 Revised Edition (x) the operation of the Seabed Minerals Fund; (xi) provisions for post-Mining monitoring or other requirements relating to the closure of Seabed Mining Activities; (xii) information-handling for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (xiii) the holding of inquiries into accidents or other incidents causing harm to the Environment or human health and safety occurring in the course of any Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; (xiv) Enforcement Orders and other sanctions, and powers connected with the investigation and administration of such Orders and other sanctions; (xv) providing that any prescribed breach of Regulations shall be an offence, and affording any defences available to any such offence; (xvi) the criminal penalty payable for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations, which shall not exceed $500,000; (xvii) a scheme of administrative penalties in lieu of a criminal penalty for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations and the amount of administrative penalties payable, which penalties shall not exceed half of the applicable maximum criminal penalty; (xviii) further matters in relation to Prospecting Permits; (xix) further matters in relation to Exploration and Mining Licences; (xx) the prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (xxi) further matters in relation to Sponsorship Certificate or agreements; (xxii) that a Licensee shall be required to pay a Licence fee, the amount or manner of determining the Licence fee, and the times and manner of payment; or (xxiii) matters in relation to Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction.
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 139. Obligation de veiller au respect de la convention et; Article 153. Système d’exploration et d’exploitation; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 165. La commission juridique et technique
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 139. Responsibility to ensure compliance and liability for damage; Article 153. System of exploration and exploitation; Article 161. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission; Article 181. Archives and official communications of the Authority
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.200. General.; Section 970.205. Vessel safety. In order to provide a basis for the necessary determinations with respect to the safety of life and property at sea, pursuant to §§ 970.507, 970.521 and subpart H of this part, the application must contain the following information, except for those vessels under 300 gross tons which are engaged in oceanographic research if they are used in exploration.; Section 970.209. Substantial compliance with application requirements.; Section 970.210. Reasonable time for full compliance. Priority of right shall not be lost in case of any application filed which is in substantial but not full compliance, as specified in § 970.209, if the Administrator determines that the applicant, within 60 days after issuance to the applicant by the Administrator of written notice that the application is in substantial but not full compliance, has brought the application into full compliance with the requirements, as applicable, of §§ 970.201 through 970.208 or § 971.214(d) of this chapter. [91 FR 2672, Jan. 21, 2026]; Section 970.211. Consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies.; Section 970.301. Requirements for applications based on pre-enactment exploration.; Section 970.302. Procedures and criteria for resolving conflicts.; Section 970.400. General.; Section 970.502. Consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies. Prior to the issuance or transfer of an exploration license, the Administrator will continue the consultation and cooperation with other Federal agencies which were initiated pursuant to § 970.211. This consultation will be to assure compliance with, among other statutes, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended, and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act. He also will consult, prior to any issuance, transfer, modification or renewal of a license, with any affected Regional Fishery Management Council established pursuant to section 302 of the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 1852) if the activities undertaken pursuant to such license could adversely affect any fishery within the Fishery Conservation Zone, or any anadromous species or Continental Shelf fishery resource subject to the exclusive management authority of the United States beyond such zone.; Section 970.511. Suspension or modification of activities; suspension or revocation of licenses.; Section 970.515. Duration of a license.; Section 970.524. Other Federal requirements. Pursuant to § 970.211, another Federal agency, upon review of an exploration license application submitted under this part, may indicate how terms, conditions, and restrictions might be added to the license, to assure compliance with any law or regulation within that agency's area of responsibility. In response to the intent, reflected in section 103(e) of the Act, to reduce the number of separate actions to satisfy the statutory responsibilities of these agencies, the Administrator may include such terms, conditions, and restrictions in a license.; Section 970.801. Criteria for safety of life and property at sea. Response to the safety at sea requirements in essence will involve vessel inspection requirements. These inspection requirements may be identified by reference to present laws and regulations. The primary inspection statutes pertaining to United States flag vessels are: 46 U.S.C. 86 (Loadlines); 46 U.S.C. 395 (Inspection of seagoing barges over 100 gross tons); 46 U.S.C. 367 (Inspection of sea-going motor vessels over 300 gross tons); and 46 U.S.C. 404 (Inspection of vessels above 15 gross tons carrying freight for hire). All United States flag vessels will be required to meet existing regulatory requirements applicable to such vessels. This includes the requirement for a current valid Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection, as specified in § 970.205. Being United States flag, these vessels will be under United States jurisdiction on the high seas and subject to domestic enforcement procedures. With respect to foreign flag vessels, the SOLAS 74 or SOLAS 60 certificate requirements or alternative IACS requirements, as specified in § 970.205, apply. [46 FR 45909, Sept. 15, 1981]; Section 970.2503. Suspension of exploration activities.
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.200. General.; Section 971.202. Statement of technological experience and capabilities.; Section 971.205. Vessel safety and documentation. In order to provide a basis for the necessary determinations with respect to the safety of life and property at sea, pursuant to § 971.407, § 971.422 and Subpart G of this part, the application must contain the following information for vessels used in commercial recovery, except for those vessels under 300 gross tons which are engaged in oceanographic research:; Section 971.211. Consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies.; Section 971.214. Consolidated license and permit procedures.; Section 971.402. Consultation and cooperation with Federal and State agencies. Before issuance or transfer of a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator will conclude any consultations in cooperation with other Federal and State agencies which were initiated pursuant to §§ 971.211 and 971.200(g). These consultations will be held to assure compliance with, as applicable and among other statutes, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, and the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended. The Administrator also will consult, before any issuance, transfer, modification or renewal of a permit, with any affected Regional Fishery Management Council established pursuant to section 302 of the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 1852) if the activities undertaken pursuant to the permit could adversely affect any fishery within the Fishery Conservation Zone (now known as the Exclusive Economic Zone), or any anadromous species or Continental Shelf fishery resource subject to the exclusive management authority of the United States beyond that zone.; Section 971.417. Suspension or modification of activities; suspension or revocation of permits.; Section 971.426. Annual report and records maintenance. Each permit will require the permittee to submit an annual report and maintain information in accordance with § 971.801 including compliance with the commercial recovery plan and the quantities of hard mineral resources recovered and the disposition of such resources.; Section 971.430. Other Federal requirements. Pursuant to § 971.211, another Federal agency, or a State acting under Federal authority, upon review of a commercial recovery permit application submitted under this part, may propose that certain TCRs be added to the permit, to assure compliance with any law or regulation within that agency's area of responsibility. The Administrator will include appropriate TCRs in a permit.; Section 971.603. At-sea monitoring.; Section 971.606. Onshore information.; Section 971.701. Criteria for safety of life and property at sea. Response to the safety at sea requirements in essence will involve vessel inspection requirements, as identified by present laws and regulations. The primary inspection statutes pertaining to United States flag vessels are: 46 App. U.S.C. 86 (Loadlines) and 46 U.S.C. 3301 (Inspection of Seagoing Barges, Seagoing Motor Vessels, and Freight Vessels). United States flag vessels shall be required to meet all applicable regulatory requirements, including the requirement for a current valid Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection (pursuant to § 971.205(a) or, as applicable, pursuant to § 971.214(d)(7)(i)). United States flag vessels are under United States jurisdiction on the high seas and subject to domestic enforcement procedures. With respect to foreign flag vessels, the SOLAS 74 or SOLAS 60 certificate requirements specified in § 971.205(b), or, as applicable, specified in § 971.214(d)(7)(ii), apply. [54 FR 525, Jan. 6, 1989, as amended at 91 FR 2677, Jan. 21, 2026]; Section 971.801. Records to be maintained and information to be submitted by licensees and. permittees. (a); Section 971.803. Relinquishment and surrender of licenses and permits.; Section 971.1000. General.; Section 971.901. (i) also applies to any action or event, such as payment of a civil penalty, required by this. subpart to take place within a specified period of time.; Section 971.1001. Assessment procedure.; Section 971.1002. Hearing and appeal procedures.; Section 971.1003. License and permit sanctions.; Section 971.1005. Observers.; Section 971.1006. Proprietary enforcement information.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1411. Prohibited activities by United States citizens.; Section 1413. License and permit applications, review, and certification.; Section 1416. Denial of certification of applications and of issuance, transfer, suspension, and revocation of licenses and permits; suspension and modification of activities.; Section 1423. Records, audits, and public disclosure.; Section 1425. Relinquishment, surrender, and transfer of licenses and permits.; Section 1461. Prohibited acts.; Section 1462. Civil penalties.; Section 1464. Enforcement.; Section 1465. Liability of vessels.

dispute_settlement_and_advisory_opinions (390)

Jurisdiction of the Seabed Disputes Chamber, settlement of disputes, and advisory opinions.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 1. Use of terms, [phrases] and scope 1. Terms used in the Convention shall have the same meaning in these Regulations.; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify 1. Nothing in these Regulations shall affect the rights and legitimate interests of coastal States under the Convention, including but not limited to article 142. 2. Applicants, contractors, as well as the Enterprise, shall take all necessary measures to ensure that their activities and foreseen activities in the Area are conducted with due regard to the rights and legitimate interests of the [relevant] [potentially affected] coastal States under the Convention and in accordance with applicable regulations and Standards and taking into account the Guidelines. 3. Without prejudice to other necessary measures taken pursuant to paragraph 2, Applicants, contractors or the Enterprise shall engage with potentially affected coastal States, including by conducting consultations, at an early stage including prior to and after submitting an application and throughout the Exploitation Contract, in accordance with these Regulations and the applicable Standards, and taking into account the Guidelines. 4. The potentially affected coastal States referred to in paragraph 3 above shall [include] / [comprise]:; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract 1. An Exploitation Contract can only be terminated:; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards 1. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that:; Regulation 40. Prevention of corruption; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures 1. [This regulation shall apply to all Communications by and with the Authority].; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary -General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, specifying the date of receipt.]; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 106. Settlement of disputes; Section I. Information concerning the applicant 1. Name of applicant. 2. Street address of applicant. 3. Postal address (if different from above). 4. Telephone number of applicant’s Designated Representative. 5. [omitted] 6. Email address of applicant’s Designated Representative. 7. Name of applicant’s Designated Representative.; Section III. Technical information; Annex III. Financing Plan A Financing Plan should include [supported by written [evidence]:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 18. Disputes Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this Contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XII of the Regulations.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by A. [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and B. [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; an d irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] 1. [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 1. Use of terms, [phrases] and scope; Regulation 4. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States and duty to notify; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 13. Assessment of Applicants and application; Regulation 18 ter Termination of an Exploitation Contract; Regulation 30. Safety, labour and health standards; Regulation 40. Anti-bribery and anti-corruption; Regulation 89. Confidentiality of information; Regulation 93. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 101. Complaints relating to Inspections [1. A Contractor who considers that an Inspector has acted unreasonably or outside of the scope of their powers under this Part may complain in writing to the Secretary-General, who will transmit the complaint promptly to the Compliance Committee who shall consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. bis A person aggrieved by an action of an Inspector [or a Contractor][or any organ or official of the Authority] under this Part may complain in writing, [providing evidence] to the Secretary General, [who shall report to the Compliance Committee [and] Chief Inspector [or where the Compliance Committee is implicated in the complaint to the Ombudsperson] to consider the complaint as soon as practicable.] [1. Alt. A Contractor or any person directly affected by the conduct of an Inspector or a Contractor in connection with inspection or compliance activities under this Part may submit a written complaint, supported by relevant evidence, to the Secretary-General. The Secretary-General shall promptly transmit the complaint to the Compliance Committee for consideration. Where the compliant involves a member of the Compliance Committee or raises concerns about the Compliance Committee impartiality, the Secretary-General shall refer the matter to the [designated Ombudsperson or another] independent mechanism established by the Council. Complaints must relate specifically to the exercise or non-exercise of powers and duties under this Part and fall within the Compliance Committee’s mandate.] [1. ter The Secretary-General shall acknowledge [receipt of a complaint made under this regulation,] in writing, [and] within 7 Days, [], specifying the date of receipt.]; Regulation 103. Compliance and enforcement measures by the Compliance Committee; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 106. Settlement of disputes; Section I. Information concerning the applicant; Section III. Technical information; Annex III. Financing Plan A Financing Plan should include supported by written evidence:; Annex IV. Environmental Impact Statement; Section 12. Suspension and termination of Contract and penalties 12.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this Contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 18. Disputes Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this Contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XII of the Regulations.; Annex XI. Parent Company Liability Statement THIS “STATEMENT” made the ... day of ... by [insert name of Managing Company], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Managing Company]; and [insert name of Contractor], with its statutory seat at [insert address and home State] and registered at [insert Chamber of Commerce or Trade Register details], represented by ..., with the authority to provide this Statement on behalf of [Contractor]; and irrevocably and unconditionally DECLARE and REPRESENT that: Obligations of [Managing Company] [Managing Company] is jointly and severally liable for any debts and liabilities of [Contractor] arising in relation to:
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 41. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 42. Différends; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 En application de l’article 21 2) de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du Contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État partie à la Convention affecté par elle.
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 40. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Часть VIII. Урегулирование споров; Правило 42. Споры; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第41条指导承包者的建议; 第42条争端; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 40. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 41. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 42. Disputes; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 25. Disputes 25.1 Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XI, section 5, of the Convention. 25.2 In accordance with article 21 (2) of annex III to the Convention, any final decision rendered by a court or tribunal having jurisdiction under the Convention relating to the rights and obligations of the Authority and of the Contractor shall be enforceable in the territory of any State party to the Convention affected thereby.; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, fax, registered airmail or e-mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an electronic document containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by fax shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published fax number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An e-mail is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction.
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 6
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 39. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 40. Différends; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 En application de l’article 21 2) de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État partie à la Convention affecté par elle.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 38. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Часть VIII. Урегулирование споров; Правило 40. Споры; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第39条指导承包者的建议; 第40条争端; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 34. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 38. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 39. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 40. Disputes; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 25. Disputes 25.1 Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XI, section 5, of the Convention. 25.2 In accordance with article 21 (2) of Annex III to the Convention, any final decision rendered by a court or tribunal having jurisdiction under the Convention relating to the rights and obligations of the Authority and of the Contractor shall be enforceable in the territory of any State party to the Convention affected thereby.; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, fax, registered airmail or e-mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an e-mail containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by fax shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published fax number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An e-mail is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 48 13-40403
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 28
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 41. Recommandations à l’intention des contractants; Article 42. Différends; Article 21. Suspension et résiliation du contrat et pénalités 21.1 Le Conseil peut suspendre le présent contrat ou y mettre fin, sans préjudice de tous autres droits que l’Autorité peut avoir, dans l’un quelconque des cas ci-après : a) Lorsque, en dépit de ses avertissements écrits, le Contractant a mené ses activités de telle manière qu’elles se traduisent par des infractions graves, réitérées et délibérées aux clauses fondamentales du présent contrat, à la partie XI de la Convention, à l’Accord et aux règles, règlements et procédures de l’Autorité; ou; Article 25. Différends 25.1 Tout différend entre les parties relatif à l’interprétation ou à l’application du présent contrat est réglé conformément à la partie XI, section 5, de la Convention. 25.2 Conformément au paragraphe 2 de l’article 21 de l’annexe III de la Convention, toute décision définitive rendue par une cour ou un tribunal ayant compétence en vertu de la Convention au sujet des droits et obligations de l’Autorité et du Contractant est exécutoire sur le territoire de tout État Partie à la Convention visé par la décision.
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 40. Уведомления и общие процедуры; Часть VIII. Урегулирование споров; Правило 42. Споры; Раздел 25. Споры; Раздел 26. Уведомление
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第41条指导承包者的建议; 第42条争端; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 36. Rights of coastal States; Regulation 40. Notice and general procedures; Regulation 41. Recommendations for the guidance of contractors; Regulation 42. Disputes; Section 21. Suspension and termination of contract and penalties 21.1 The Council may suspend or terminate this contract, without prejudice to any other rights that the Authority may have, if any of the following events should occur:; Section 25. Disputes 25.1 Any dispute between the parties concerning the interpretation or application of this contract shall be settled in accordance with Part XI, section 5, of the Convention. 25.2 In accordance with article 21, paragraph 2, of Annex III to the Convention, any final decision rendered by a court or tribunal having jurisdiction under the Convention relating to the rights and obligations of the Authority and of the Contractor shall be enforceable in the territory of any State Party to the Convention affected thereby.; Section 26. Notice 26.1 Any application, request, notice, report, consent, approval, waiver, direction or instruction hereunder shall be made by the Secretary-General or by the designated representative of the Contractor, as the case may be, in writing. Service shall be by hand, or by telex, facsimile, registered airmail or electronic mail containing an authorized signature to the Secretary-General at the headquarters of the Authority or to the designated representative. The requirement to provide any information in writing under these Regulations is satisfied by the provision of the information in an electronic document containing a digital signature. 26.2 Either party shall be entitled to change any such address to any other address by not less than ten days’ notice to the other party. 26.3 Delivery by hand shall be effective when made. Delivery by telex shall be deemed to be effective on the business day following the day when the “answer back” appears on the sender’s telex machine. Delivery by facsimile shall be effective when the “transmit confirmation report” confirming the transmission to the recipient’s published facsimile number is received by the transmitter. Delivery by registered airmail shall be deemed to be effective 21 days after posting. An electronic document is presumed to have been received by the addressee when it enters an information system designated or used by the addressee for the purpose of receiving documents of the type sent and it is capable of being retrieved and processed by the addressee. 26.4 Notice to the designated representative of the Contractor shall constitute effective notice to the Contractor for all purposes under this contract, and the designated representative shall be the Contractor’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction. 26.5 Notice to the Secretary-General shall constitute effective notice to the Authority for all purposes under this contract, and the Secretary-General shall be the Authority’s agent for the service of process or notification in any proceeding of any court or tribunal having jurisdiction.
• Avis consultatif de la Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux fonds marins (2011, affaire n° 17) [FR]: preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 30; Paragraph 33; Paragraph 35; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 39; Paragraph 41; Paragraph 45; Paragraph 47; Paragraph 49; Paragraph 56; Paragraph 60; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 156; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 242; Paragraph 2
• 2011 Seabed Disputes Chamber Advisory Opinion (Case No. 17): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 24; Paragraph 26; Paragraph 27; Paragraph 28; Paragraph 30; Paragraph 33; Paragraph 35; Paragraph 37; Paragraph 39; Paragraph 41; Paragraph 45; Paragraph 47; Paragraph 49; Paragraph 52; Paragraph 56; Paragraph 60; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 112; Paragraph 113; Paragraph 119; Paragraph 137; Paragraph 140; Paragraph 146; Paragraph 148; Paragraph 156; Paragraph 167; Paragraph 168; Paragraph 177; Paragraph 215; Paragraph 217; Paragraph 226; Paragraph 228; Paragraph 235; Paragraph 242; Paragraph 2
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Brown, 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Brown, 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 7; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 11; Paragraph 12
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 187(c)(i) and (ii) do not afford a prima facie basis on which the jurisdiction of the [Chamber] might be founded."; Article 283 of the Convention; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order 2026/3 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): (whole text)
• ITLOS Order 2026/6 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 4
• ITLOS Order 2026/8 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 7
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 16; Paragraph 28; Paragraph 30; Paragraph 41; Paragraph 43; Paragraph 44; Paragraph 46; Paragraph 49; Paragraph 51; Paragraph 52; Paragraph 53; Paragraph 54; Paragraph 55; Paragraph 60; Paragraph 61; Paragraph 62; Paragraph 64; Paragraph 65; Paragraph 66; Paragraph 67; Paragraph 68; Paragraph 70; Paragraph 71; Paragraph 72; Paragraph 73; Paragraph 74; Paragraph 78; Paragraph 79; Paragraph 81; Paragraph 84; Paragraph 86; Paragraph 87; Paragraph 88; Paragraph 89; Paragraph 92; Paragraph 93; Paragraph 95; Paragraph 96; Paragraph 97; Paragraph 99; Paragraph 100; Paragraph 101; Paragraph 102; Paragraph 103; Paragraph 104; Paragraph 106; Paragraph 108; Paragraph 110; Paragraph 111; Paragraph 112; Paragraph 113; Paragraph 114; Paragraph 115; Paragraph 116; Paragraph 117; Paragraph 118; Paragraph 130; Paragraph 136; Paragraph 160; Paragraph 161; Paragraph 165; Paragraph 176; Paragraph 178; Paragraph 189; Paragraph 191; Paragraph 192
• ITLOS Order 2026/4 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): (whole text)
• ITLOS Order 2026/9 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Paragraph 7
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 4. Performance Outcomes set out in an Environmental Management and. Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Impact’ means any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, that wholly or partly results from the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Impact Assessment’ means an impact assessment conducted in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Management System’, has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA and used to manage the environmental aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Environmental Performance Objective’ means the performance objectives included in an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Performance Outcome’ means a measurable level of performance (qualitative or quantitative) for the desired state of the marine environment, including the quantitative value or concentration of a particular substance in the water column, sediment, or biota, arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities, which shall not be exceeded in order to protect the marine environment as set out in the Applicable Standards or an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; ‘Environmental Response and Contingency Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Environmental Risk’ means the chance of something happening that will have an adverse Environmental Impact, measured in terms of the environmental consequences and the likelihood of those particular consequences occurring; ‘Financing Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Good Industry Practice’ has the same meaning in the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Management System’ means a system for managing the health and safety aspects of the Seabed Mineral Activities, including occupational health and safety; ‘Health and Safety Plan’ means a plan forming part of a Plan of Work that is prepared, approved and implemented under the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Health and Safety Performance Standard’ means a standard, established by a Sponsored Party, of the performance required of a system, item of equipment, person or procedure which is used as a basis for managing the risk of a major accident event; ‘ICC’ means the International Chamber of Commerce as defined under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules; ‘Management System’ means a Health and Safety Management System and an Environmental Management System;; Section 5. ‘Material Change’ means a significant change as defined in the relevant Rules. of the ISA; ‘Performance Improvement Plan’ means a plan to address the issues identified by the Authority as may be required by regulation 47; ‘Plan of Work’ is a Plan of Work for exploration or exploitation in the Area as defined by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘Reportable Event’ means an event that is classified as such under these Regulations or a Sponsorship Agreement, and includes: (a) a notifiable event defined under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (b) a failure to comply with the fundamental terms and conditions of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan, including a failure to achieve, or a breach of, an Environmental Performance Objective or Environmental Performance Outcome; (c) a determination by the ISA that the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan is inadequate in any material respect following a performance assessment under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) a contravention of, or a failure to comply with, a material term or condition of the Sponsorship Agreement; (e) a material reduction in production under a Plan of Work; (f) any failure, or likely failure in a Management System that could cause or contribute to a major accident or incident; (g) the identification of any new significant health and safety risk or significant Environmental Risk, or a significant change to existing risk calculations; (h) the receipt of a written instruction from an inspector appointed by the ISA; (i) the receipt of a compliance notice from the ISA; (j) a request by the ISA to audit the books of the sponsored entity; (k) the taking of any measures under regulation 35; (l) a failure to comply with a compliance direction or emergency direction under regulations 47 or 48 within the time allowed in the direction; or (m) any event classified by the Authority as a Reportable Event as the Seabed Mineral Activities progress; and ‘Technical Assistance Committee’ means a technical committee, set up by the Authority under the Act; ‘UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules’ means the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law adopted by the United General Assembly on 9 December 2021; (2) Terms used in these regulations that are defined in the Act have the meanings given to them by the Act.; Section 23. Terms and conditions of Sponsorship Agreements. (1) For the purpose of Section 25(1), a Sponsorship Agreement may include all or any terms and conditions relating to the following matters: (a) definitions of key terms used in the agreement; (b) the duration of the sponsorship arrangement by reference to the duration of the corresponding ISA contract; (c) the scope and nature of the Republic’s sponsorship obligation; (d) the financial terms and payment obligations of the Sponsored Party; (e) the Republic’s rights to audit books and records supporting such payments; (f) obligations of the Sponsored Party, including: (i) compliance with relevant enactments of the Republic; (ii) compliance with the terms of an ISA contract; and (iii) the funding and implementation of training and technical capacity building programmes; (g) provisions for the indemnification of liability of the Republic by the Sponsored Party; (h) the protection of the confidentiality of information, including commercially sensitive information; (i) the grounds and procedures for any material default by the parties under the agreement; (j) the grounds and procedures for any termination of the agreement; (k) the governing law and jurisdiction for the agreement, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration; (l) the ability of the Sponsored Party to subcontract all or any part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) the assignment of all or any interest under an ISA contract; (n) notification, reporting and monitoring rights and obligations; (o) foreign investment protection and corporate existence; (p) appropriate representations and warranties from both parties regarding their authority to enter into the agreement and compliance with applicable laws; (q) obligations surviving termination of the agreement; and (r) other matters that the parties consider necessary and appropriate to manage and administer the rights and obligations Sponsorship Agreement. (2) A Sponsorship Agreement shall also include any specific conditions approved by the Cabinet under regulation 16.; Section 37. Notifying and responding to incidents. (1) A Sponsored Party shall, on becoming aware of an incident in relation to the Seabed Mineral Activities: (a) notify the Authority immediately by telephone, and within 24 hours in writing and provide a summary of the known facts surrounding the incident, including the location and any known or likely effects on the marine environment, human health and safety, marine users or another State’s interest; (b) comply with the requirements of the relevant Rules of the ISA, including to implement immediately, where applicable, the Emergency Response and Contingency Plan; take other necessary and appropriate measures to limit the adverse effects of the incident; (c) (d) undertake promptly, and within any time frame stipulated, any instructions received from the ISA or the Authority; and (e) record the incident in an incidents register in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (2) On being notified by the Sponsored Party or other person that an incident has occurred, the Chief Executive Officer shall, immediately: (a) notify the Board and the Minister by providing a summary of the facts concerning the incident; (b) consult with the Sponsored Party; and (c) cooperate and consult with the ISA on any recommended action to be taken. (3) A report shall be provided to the Authority within 60 days after the Sponsored Party becomes aware of the occurrence of the incident. (4) The Authority may accept any report provided to the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA relating to an incident reported under subregulation (3). (5) A person who, without reasonable excuse, breaches subregulation (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000. (6) The Authority shall notify the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade if an incident has had, or is reasonably expected to have, substantial effects on persons or things under the jurisdiction of another State.; Section 60. Information disclosure. (1) Subject to regulation 59, for the purposes of Section 33(2)(b) of the Act, the Authority may disclose information: (a) to protect the marine environment, other marine users or health and safety, including in connection with an incident; or (b) where it is necessary for the formulation by the Authority of policies, regulations, guidelines, and procedures concerning the protection of the marine environment and of human health and safety. (2) Any person that receives confidential information provided under the Act or these Regulations shall not disclose the information to any other person. (3) Any person, including an applicant or Sponsored Party submitting information to the Authority may specify that information is confidential information under the Act and may not be publicly disclosed and provide the Authority with the details of the basis for such a specification. (4) Where any information submitted to the Authority is specified as confidential information, the Chief Executive Officer shall review the basis for the specification, taking into consideration any Applicable Guideline. (5) Where the Chief Executive Officer objects to a specification of information as confidential, the Chief Executive Officer shall, within 30 days after receiving the information, consult with the person that submitted the information on: (a) the nature of the information; and (b) whether the information constitutes confidential information pursuant to the Act, taking into consideration any Applicable Guideline.; Section 61. Disputes. (1) Pursuant to Section 56 of the Act, if a dispute between the Republic and a Sponsored Party arises under the Act, either the Republic or the Sponsored Party may give to the other disputing Party a notice of dispute in writing adequately identifying the matters and the subject of the dispute together with detailed particulars of the dispute. (2) Within 20 days of service of a notice of dispute, the parties shall make best efforts to meet at least once, to attempt to resolve the dispute. (3) After 20 days of service of a notice of dispute, if the dispute is not resolved, the Parties shall make best efforts to meet and use their best endeavours, acting in good faith, to resolve the dispute in whole or in part. (4) Where the dispute is resolved at a meeting of the parties, then any such resolution shall be reduced to writing and be contractually binding on the parties. (5) The Republic shall submit to arbitration in accordance with this regulation any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Act, that has not been resolved. (6) Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to the Act, that has not been resolved shall be settled by arbitration in accordance with the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules as at presently in force, unless the parties otherwise agree on governing rules of procedure for arbitration. (7) The appointing authority shall be the International Chamber of Commerce acting in accordance with the UNCITRAL Rules for Arbitration. (8) The number of arbitrators shall be 3. (9) The seat of the arbitration shall be Singapore. (10) The language to be used in the arbitral proceeding shall be English. (11) The governing law shall be the laws of Singapore and applicable international law principles and rules regarding the protection of foreign investors to the extent such rules do not contradict the provisions of the Act or would reduce the rights of a Sponsored Party under the Act. (12) Notwithstanding anything in this regulation: (a) nothing shall prejudice the right of a party to seek urgent injunctive, interrogatory or declaratory relief from a court of competent jurisdiction; and (b) each party shall continue to perform its obligations under the Act.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 6. Jurisdiction. By the enactment of this Act, Nauru recognises: (a) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; and (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) preservation, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by contractors carrying out activities in the Area; and (e) the responsibility of State Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the duty outlined in section 6(d)(iii) of this Act; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) State Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by State Parties; and (g) where Nauru is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty includes the effective control of any person engaged in activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 22. Content of a sponsorship application. A Sponsorship Application must be made in writing to the Authority and must: (a) provide evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; and (b) include: (i) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) written undertakings by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (A) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (B) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (C) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship by Nauru; (c) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will be conducted; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) an indication of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed: (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease, bond or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (f) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from Nauru; (g) a capacity building programme for the training of citizens of Nauru; (h) the application fee required under this Act; (i) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA and international law; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (j) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 39. Variation, suspension and revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate. (1) The Authority may vary, suspend or revoke any Sponsorship Certificate: (a) where any of the Sponsorship Qualification criteria ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under section 45 is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to: (i) prevent serious risk to: (A) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (B) the Marine Environment; or (ii) avoid conflict with any obligation of Nauru arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for Nauru; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Sponsored Party; (e) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of the Sponsored Party, or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (f) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding five years from the date of signing the contract with the ISA; (g) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or Regulations or Orders made under this Act, or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party; and such breach cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party, or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (h) where, following at least two written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party in accordance with this Act, any payment or deposit required owing under this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; (i) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority. (2) Before making a decision under this section of the Act, the Authority shall: (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 30 days’ written notice of the Authority’s intention to make the decision, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice, or a copy of the notice has been given to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe; if there are any objections; (b) give a copy of the notice to any other person as the Authority thinks fit; (c) take into account any submissions made in accordance with the notice; and (d) where the decision is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, give the Sponsored Party no fewer than six months’ notice before that revocation takes place.; Section 46. Appellate Jurisdiction. The Supreme Court has jurisdiction under this Act to conduct: (a) judicial review of administrative decisions, determinations, actions or inquiries taken under this Act; or (b) proceedings to establish liability and to provide recourse for prompt and adequate compensation in the event of an unlawful damage caused by Seabed Mineral Activities, in accordance with Article 235(2) of the UNCLOS.; Section 54. Disputes. (1) Any dispute arising between Nauru and another State in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities shall be resolved pursuant to the provisions of the UNCLOS. (2) Any dispute between Nauru and the Sponsored Party arising in connection with the administration of this Act shall be dealt with by: (a) the parties attempting to reach settlement by mutual agreement or mediation, and in the event this is not successful then; (b) by referral to arbitration in accordance with the Courts Act 1972; (c) an application submitted to the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea for any case expressly provided for in Part XI of the UNCLOS.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.; Section 5. Jurisdiction over Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area vests in. the ISA The Republic recognises: (a) that the Area and its resources are the common heritage of humankind; (b) that the rights to the Area are governed by the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (c) the ISA’s responsibility under the UNCLOS to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of humankind as a whole, including: (i) processing applications for the approval of plans of work for Exploration and Exploitation; (ii) monitoring compliance with plans of work approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; and (iii) adopting rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of Exploration and Exploitation; (d) the rules, regulations, procedures, codes and standards adopted by the ISA for the: (i) protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to, and the interference with the ecological balance of the Marine Environment; and (iii) exercise of control over activities in the Area as is necessary for the purpose of securing compliance with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA by Sponsored Parties carrying out activities in the Area; (e) the responsibility of States Parties to assist the ISA in exercising the obligations under the UNCLOS; (f) that Seabed Mineral Activities shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by: (i) States Parties; or (ii) persons sponsored by States Parties; and (g) where the Republic is a Sponsoring State, the State’s duty to: (i) meet the obligations imposed directly upon the Republic by the UNCLOS; and (ii) maintain Effective Control of any Sponsored Party engaged in activities in the Area, in order to ensure conformity of those activities with the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA.; Section 15. Requirements of the Sponsorship Application. A Sponsorship Application under Section 14(1) shall comply with the following requirements: (a) provide a duly completed application form; (b) provide documentary evidence to demonstrate that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Qualification Criteria; (c) provide a copy of the application for the approval of a plan of work to obtain a corresponding contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities prepared in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) provide a written undertaking to the Republic by way of statutory declaration that the Sponsorship Applicant: (i) together with its relevant Associates and Affiliates shall fully comply with the obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warrants that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Exploration or Exploitation in the Area under the sponsorship of the Republic; (e) provide a written report or any other form of record containing the studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the geological and commercial potential of the site or sites within which the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities is intended to be conducted; (f) provide a written report or any other form of report conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (g) provide details of the Sponsorship Applicant’s proposed insurance, contingency funding or other methods proposed to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an incident; (h) provide the name, address and email and telephone contact or any other details of any Affiliate or Associate and a list of key personnel required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities and an indication if any of these are to be recruited from the Republic; (i) where applicable, provide a projection based on the current project details of the Seabed Mineral recovery payment and other amounts payable to the Republic; (j) provide a proposal for capacity building programme for the training of citizens of the Republic; (k) the requirements of this Act and any prescribed requirements; (l) provide a statement as to whether the Sponsored Applicant, its Associates, Affiliates or any of their directors and officers has previously been found on credible evidence to have: (i) breached a material term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities; (ii) breached the relevant Rules of the ISA, any written law or applicable international law; (iii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in the Republic or another jurisdiction; or (iv) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; and (m) any further matters as may be prescribed.; Section 17. Qualification Criteria for issuance of Sponsorship Certificate. The Qualification Criteria for a Sponsorship Applicant are as follows: (a) the applicant is an existing body corporate, incorporated and registered in the Republic or a public enterprise under the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) has or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability, to: (i) properly perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) cover the costs of any potential liability arising from incidents, accidents, pollution, or any other serious harm occurring as a result of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) respond to any incident; (c) has adequate risk management strategies, capability and management systems to meet health and safety and environmental requirements under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (d) has implemented a system of corporate governance and transparency to support the proper performance of obligations under an ISA Contract, including the effective monitoring and management of Affiliates and Associates; (e) has implemented policies and codes of conduct that prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment or bullying and promote diversity and equality in the workplace; and (f) that each director or officer, its Affiliates and Associates that are involved in the management of the Sponsorship Applicant’s business, engaged or to be engaged in the conduct of all or a material part of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities and their directors or officers, have not, in any jurisdiction been: (i) found on credible evidence to have breached a term or condition of an approval, however described, to conduct seabed mineral activities or similar sea or land-based activity; (ii) convicted of an offence relating to the conduct of seabed mineral activities or other sea or land-based exploration or exploitation activity under any natural resource, health and safety, or environmental laws; or (iii) convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (g) in considering the criteria under paragraph (f), the Authority shall take into account the seriousness and impact of the Sponsorship Applicant’s conduct or that of a director or officer, or relevant Affiliate or Associate, and any mitigating circumstances, including any remedial action taken and the time elapsed since any breach or conviction; and (h) has paid the applicable fee.; Section 33. Records and Confidentiality. (1) The Authority shall keep and maintain up-to-date and accurate records of Sponsorship Applications received, Sponsorship Certificates issued, Sponsorship Agreements, ISA contracts held, and all ensuing communication, reports or other information created or received. (2) The Authority shall securely keep and maintain all confidential information received in accordance with the prescribed procedures, and shall not disclose such information unless: (a) it is permitted to be disclosed under Section 52 of the Public Enterprises Act 2019; (b) the disclosure is made for the purposes of or in connection with, the performance or exercise of any function, power or duty conferred under this Act or any other written law; (c) the disclosure is required by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator agreed to by the Parties; (d) the disclosure is made in connection with proceedings or any investigation or inquiry for proceedings, for an offence against this Act or any other enactment; (e) the information is: (i) required by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA; (ii) requested by the Secretary-General of the ISA or their designated representative in writing together with an explanation that such information is necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS; (iii) such that the Authority considers it may assist the ISA in securing compliance of a Sponsored Party under Article 153(4) of the UNCLOS; or (iv) required by another national regulatory agency where the Authority believes the information may assist such agency in the exercise of its powers or performance of its functions under an enactment relating to the conduct of the Seabed Mineral Activities; or (f) the information is reasonably required by Approved Experts engaged by the Authority in the performance of their services, provided: (i) that such experts undertake in writing to keep the information confidential; and (ii) the disclosure is reasonably necessary in connection with the Authority in exercising its functions under this Act; or (g) the information is publicly available; (3) Where confidential information is required to be disclosed under subsection (2)(a) to (f), the Authority shall inform the Sponsored Party prior to such disclosure taking place. (4) Where the Authority intends to disclose any confidential information, the disclosure of which is not provided for under subsection (2), the Authority shall consult with the Sponsored Party about the content and nature of such disclosure and shall agree any disclosure with the Sponsored Party before any such disclosure occurs and subject to any terms and conditions that the parties consider appropriate. (5) Where the Authority becomes aware of a suspected or actual breach of this Section, the Authority shall immediately inform the Sponsored Party and take all practicable measures to prevent or cease the suspected or actual breach.; Section 42. Revocation of a Sponsorship Certificate. The Minister, on the Authority’s recommendation and with Cabinet approval, may revoke any Sponsorship Certificate, for one or more of the following reasons: (a) where, despite a written warning by the Authority, one or more of the Qualification Criteria ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under Section 52 is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) in any case, with the written consent of the Sponsored Party; (d) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of the Sponsored Party or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (e) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding 5 years from the date of signing the ISA Contract, except where the lack of material efforts is required to comply with the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise approved by the ISA; (f) where despite a written warning by the Authority, there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the relevant Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or regulations or administrative measures orders made under this Act or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party and such breach: (i) cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party; or (ii) has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (g) where, following at least 2 written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party, any payment due to the Republic is in arrears for 6 months from the day on which the amount became payable; (h) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority; and (i) where the Cabinet is satisfied that it is in the Republic’s interest to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, including to avoid conflict with any obligation of the Republic arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Republic.; Section 52. Security Deposit. (1) The Authority may after an Exploitation contract has been granted by the ISA to the Sponsored Party, and prior to Exploitation commencing, require a Sponsored Party to provide a Security Deposit as a guarantee of performance of its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act. (2) The form and value of any such security required, and the terms upon which it will be held, shall be specified as a condition in a Sponsorship Agreement made under Section 25 and take into account the type and quantum of any security or guarantee that the Sponsored Party is also required to deposit with the ISA in accordance with the relevant Rules of the ISA. (3) A security deposited in accordance with this Section may be used by the Authority to: (a) take steps towards fulfilling any obligations that the Sponsored Party fails to fulfil under this Act or under terms of its Sponsorship Agreement; (b) rectify any damage or loss caused as a result of such failure; or (c) satisfy any order of compensation or damages made against the Sponsored Party by a court or tribunal. (4) The Authority may adjust the amount of an original security where there has been a material change in circumstances, including: (a) a change in the financial capacity of the Sponsored Party; or (b) a change in the scope, nature and magnitude of the Seabed Mineral Activities under an ISA Contract.; Section 53. Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to hear and determine. matters (1) The Supreme Court has jurisdiction under this Act to conduct: (a) judicial review of administrative decisions, determinations, actions or inquiries taken under this Act; or (b) proceedings to establish liability and to provide recourse for prompt and adequate compensation in the event of an unlawful damage caused by Seabed Mineral Activities, in accordance with Article 235(2) of the UNCLOS. (2) Nothing in this Section shall prejudice the dispute resolution rights of Sponsored Parties under Section 56.; Section 54. Registration of decisions by the Seabed Disputes Chamber. (1) A person may apply to the Supreme Court for an order for a decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber to be registered in the Supreme Court. (2) The Supreme Court may issue an order that the decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber involving a State may be registered. (3) No privilege or immunity that a State may claim against the enforcement of the decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber shall be affected by the registration of such decision. (4) The Republic waives the privilege or immunity in relation to a registered decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber involving a Sponsored Party.; Section 55. Effect of registration of decisions by the Seabed Disputes. Chamber A registered decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber is to be treated as if the decision were a judgment of the Supreme Court made on the date on which the decision was registered, for the following purposes: (a) the force and effect of the decision in relation to the enforcement of the decision; (b) the exercise of the powers of the Supreme Court in relation to the enforcement of the decision; (c) the taking of proceedings for or in relation to the enforcement of the decision; or (d) where the decision is for the payment of a sum of money, the carrying and computation of interest on that sum.; Section 56. Disputes. (1) Any dispute arising between the Republic and another State, or the Republic and the ISA, in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities shall be resolved pursuant to the provisions of the UNCLOS. (2) Any dispute between the Republic and a Sponsored Party in respect of a Sponsorship Agreement or arising in connection with the administration of this Act shall be dealt with pursuant to the process and procedures set out in the Sponsorship Agreement or as prescribed. (3) The Republic shall consent to undergoing arbitration in accordance with the process and procedures under subsection (2), for any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Act or a Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Any arbitral award granted as a result of any dispute resolution procedures referred to in this Section is to be treated as if the arbitral award was a judgment of the Supreme Court made on the date on which the arbitral award is made, for the following purposes: (a) the force and effect of the arbitral award in relation to the enforcement of the arbitral award; (b) the exercise of the powers of the Supreme Court in relation to the enforcement of the arbitral award; (c) the taking of proceedings for or in relation to the enforcement of the arbitral award; or (d) where the arbitral award is for the payment of a sum of money, the carrying and computation of interest on that sum. (5) For the avoidance of doubt, the Foreign Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcement) Act 1973 and all other laws related to the enforcement of foreign or domestic arbitral awards shall not apply to any arbitral award granted as a result of the dispute resolution procedures under this Section.; Section 58. Safety zones around Exploration or Exploitation vessels. (1) A Sponsored Party may, consistent with the UNCLOS and in cooperation with the master of any vessel or installation, establish a safety zone around vessels and installations conducting activities in the Area that extends from the outer extremities of such vessels, installations or equipment deployed and installations, to a distance of 500 metres in all directions. (2) No vessel or person shall navigate within or enter a safety zone. (3) Subsection (2) shall not apply to a vessel that: (a) is in distress; (b) is attempting to save a life or provide assistance to a vessel in distress; (c) is operated by or on behalf of the ISA or a State having jurisdiction over the exploration or exploitation operations; or (d) has received permission from the person in charge of the exploration or exploitation vessel or installation to enter the safety zone around such vessel. (4) Any person who contravenes subsection (2) commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or to an imprisonment term not exceeding 10 years or to both.; Section 64. Rights of other States including coastal States not affected. (1) Nothing in this Act shall in any way affect the rights of Coastal States in accordance with Article 142 and other relevant provisions of the UNCLOS. (2) A Coastal State that has grounds for believing that Seabed Mineral Activities have caused, are causing or are likely to cause harm to the Marine Environment under its jurisdiction, may notify the Authority in writing of the grounds on which such belief is based. (3) The Authority shall provide any Sponsored Party affected by the notice with a reasonable opportunity to respond on it, within a time period that is reasonable in the circumstances.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 4. Ownership of Seabed Minerals within national jurisdiction All rights to the mineral resources contained in- the waters superjacent to the seabed, the seabed, and subsoil of the Kingdom‘s territorial sea, Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf are hereby vested in the Crown to be managed on behalf of the people of the Kingdom, in accordance with the provisions of this Act.; Section 5. Objects of this Act The objects of this Act are – (a) to establish a legal framework and domestic and international investment environment for the development of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; (b) to establish a legal framework for, and the efficient control of, contractors sponsored by the Kingdom to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; (c) to ensure that Seabed Mineral Activities within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction, or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area, are carried out according to best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including the Kingdom‘s responsibilities under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duty to protect and preserve the Marine Environment; (d) to promote transparency in decision-making on matters concerning the Kingdom‘s management of Seabed Minerals within its jurisdiction or under its sponsorship in the Area; (e) to secure economic development of the Kingdom through the development of its Seabed Mineral sector; Page 12 2020 Revised Edition (f) to secure optimum benefit to the Kingdom from Mining and to implement measures to maximise the benefits of Seabed Mineral Activities for present and future generations of Tongans.; Section 8. Jurisdiction By the enactment of this Act the Kingdom - 2020 Revised Edition Page 13 (a) exercises its exclusive sovereign rights over its Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf for the purpose of exploring and mining its natural resources (including its minerals); (b) recognises - (i) the seabed resources of the Area to be the common heritage of mankind; (ii) that rights to the Area are governed by the Rules of the ISA; (iii) that Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area shall be carried out in association with the ISA only by State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, State enterprises, or by persons sponsored by Sponsoring States; and (iv) the ISA‘s responsibility under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise and control activities in the Area on behalf of mankind as a whole, including to - (aa) process applications for approval of plans of work for exploration and mining in the Area; (bb) monitor compliance with plans of work, approved in the form of a contract, including through a staff of inspectors; (cc) adopt rules, regulations and procedures necessary for the conduct of exploration and mining in the Area, including for the - (i) protection and preservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the Marine Environment; and (ii) prevention, reduction and control of pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment; (v) the responsibility of State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea including the Kingdom to assist the ISA in exercising its duties outlined in section 8(b)(iii) of this Act; (vi) where the Kingdom is a Sponsoring State, the Kingdom‘s duty is to effectively control any person engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under its sponsorship, in order to ensure conformity of those Activities with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Rules of the ISA; and (c) exercises its jurisdiction over Tongan subjects and vessels, and foreign persons and vessels otherwise subject to the Kingdom‘s effective control, engaged in activities of Exploration for, and Mining of, the resources of the Kingdom and the Area, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law recognized by the Kingdom. Page 14 2020 Revised Edition; Section 13. Duties of the Authority In performing its functions the Authority shall so far as is reasonably practicable act in a way which is compatible with - (a) the principles contained in section 2(2) of this Act; (b) meeting its objectives contained in section 11 of this Act; (c) the encouragement of investment in and performance of Seabed Mineral Activities in the Kingdom‘s jurisdiction or under its sponsorship; (d) the principles of best regulatory practice (including the principles under which regulatory activities should be proportionate, accountable, consistent, transparent and targeted only at cases in which action is needed); and (e) such generally accepted principles of good corporate governance as it is reasonable to regard as applicable to it.; Section 25. Costs incurred by the Authority in taking enforcement action If the Authority takes corrective action under section 24 of this Act in relation to an Enforcement Order, the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the Authority in taking that action are a debt due to the Authority by the person or persons whose failure to comply with the Order led to that action, which is recoverable in a court of competent jurisdiction. Page 22 2020 Revised Edition; Section 27. Administrative Action (1) The Authority may take any one or more of the administrative actions in sub- section (2) in respect of a Title Holder, upon the Authority reasonably determining that the Title Holder has materially breached- (a) a condition or term of its Title; or (b) a requirement of the Act, Regulations or other law of the Kingdom. (2) Administrative actions that the Authority may take in accordance with sub- section (1) are to - (a) issue written warnings, including warnings in relation to possible action the Authority may take in the event of future breaches; (b) enter into a written agreement providing for the Title Holder to undertake a programme of remedial action and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (c) issue Enforcement Orders under section 23 of this Act for the Title Holder to prevent, remedy and mitigate the risk of re-occurrence of breaches; (d) impose an administrative penalty not exceeding $10,000 for each day during which the breach continues; (e) impose temporary restrictions on the Seabed Mineral Activities of the Title Holder until the Authority is satisfied that action has been taken to remedy the breach and to mitigate the risk of re-occurrence; (f) commence a process under section 73 or section 88 of this Act to vary, suspend or revoke the Title, including a variation to impose additional conditions on the Title. (3) Action taken under sub-section (2) shall be commensurate with the gravity, frequency and other circumstances of the breach, including the Title Holder‘s previous conduct under the Title. 2020 Revised Edition Page 23; Section 39. Title Holders’ Duties (1) In addition to terms and conditions contained in the individual Title, all Title Holders shall - (a) adhere to the provisions in force from time to time of any other applicable legal instruments, laws of the Kingdom, including (without limitation) laws relating to the safety of life at sea and vessel standards; (b) employ best environmental practice in accordance with prevailing international standards; (c) if the Authority advises in writing that it considers there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, apply the Precautionary Approach; (d) in order to avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (e) take necessary steps to prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the Marine Environment, including waste material, arising from Seabed Mineral Activities; (f) at all material times maintain appropriate insurance policies that provide adequate cover for identified risks and costs of damages that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities, or otherwise satisfy the Authority of its financial and technical capability to respond to potential Incidents; 2020 Revised Edition Page 27 (g) cooperate in capacity-building of personnel of the Kingdom in connection with Marine Scientific Research, Seabed Mineral Activities, and related transfer of technology, including providing opportunities in consultation with the Authority for the participation of representatives of the Kingdom in the Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) provide sufficient training, supervision and resources to employees, agents or officers, to ensure compliance with this Act; (i) carry out the Seabed Mineral Activities lawfully, with due diligence and efficiency, and within reasonable time limits; (j) where the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations would constitute a Major Project for the purposes of the EIA Act, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment, and not proceed with Licensed activities, unless and until appropriate approval under the EIA Act has been obtained; (k) exercise proactive due diligence in, and comply with the terms of the Title directed at, safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in the Seabed Mineral Activities and in any Ancillary Operations; (l) if marine or coastal users likely to be adversely affected by the Seabed Mineral Activities are identified by the Authority or the Title Holder at any time, including through the Application and Environmental Impact Assessment processes, obtain free and prior informed consent, including by way of compensation, from those persons prior to commencing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) maintain, separately for each Title, a complete and proper set of books, accounts, financial records, and performance data consistent with internationally accepted accounting practices, which are annually audited by an independent auditor, and in the case of a Mining Licensee, which are sufficient to determine the amount of royalties, fees or taxes that may be payable under any Act, and supply such of that data to the Authority in the format and at such times as may be required; (n) not amend, alter or vary without the prior and informed written consent of the Authority (which is not to be unreasonably withheld) the work plan contained in the Title; (o) submit to the Authority immediately in writing notice of any new information arising or data collected that materially affects the work plan or the Title Holder‘s ability to adhere to the terms of the Title; (p) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any Incident arising from the Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; Page 28 2020 Revised Edition (q) not proceed or continue with the Seabed Mineral Activities without obtaining prior written consent from the Authority to proceed, if evidence arises that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to- (i) the Marine Environment that was not anticipated in any Environmental Impact Assessment previously conducted; (ii) to the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (iii) to other existing or planned legitimate sea uses including but not limited to Marine Scientific Research; (r) in the case of a Mining Licence and for any period during which Seabed Minerals are being mined, submit to the Authority a periodic and no less than quarterly report any form prescribed providing information about the volume of work performed and quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined; (s) submit to the Authority within 30 days of the end of each calendar year a written annual report in a format to be prescribed or described in the Title, which in the case of a Mining Licence shall include- (i) information on the results of Mining operations, health and safety record, volume of work, quantity and quality of Seabed Minerals mined, waste and waste disposal, rehabilitation activities; (ii) statement of expenditures, costs and persons employed; (iii) estimate of remaining Seabed Mineral deposit within the Licence Area; and (iv) statement showing the amount of royalty determined to be payable for each reporting period together with all related information and calculations, and receipt showing that the royalties have been paid in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom; (t) provide the Authority with all reasonable information and assistance to enable the Authority‘s verification of the Title Holder‘s adherence to its obligations in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities and Ancillary Operations; (u) at the end of the Title term or upon earlier suspension, revocation or surrender of the Title, remove all installations, equipment and materials in the Title Area, so as to ensure that the Title Area does not constitute a danger to persons, shipping or the Marine Environment; and provide a final report including information on the rehabilitation of the Title Area; (v) obtain any other permits, approval, certification or other documentation required under the laws of the Kingdom for the lawful operation of the Title Holder in the Kingdom‘s territory or under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship in the Area and in performing the Seabed Mineral Activities; 2020 Revised Edition Page 29 (w) at all material times, ensure that- (i) any vessels, installation and equipment engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are in good repair and comply with the laws of the flag state and applicable international shipping conventions; (ii) working conditions for personnel engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities meet applicable employment rules and health and safety standards; (x) not dump mineral materials or waste from any vessel except in accordance with international law and the directions of the Authority or – for Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area – the Rules of the ISA.; Section 40. Prospecting within the Kingdom’s national jurisdiction Prospecting may be carried out within an area of the Kingdom‘s Exclusive Economic Zone or upon the Kingdom‘s Continental Shelf by any person holding a valid Prospecting Permit pertaining to that area.; Section 44. Denial of a Prospecting Permit The Authority will not provide a Prospecting Permit where- (a) any Application information prescribed under section 42 has not been supplied to the Authority‘s satisfaction; (b) the past performance of the Applicant as the holder of any Title, or equivalent in other jurisdictions, has been materially unsatisfactory to the Authority‘s knowledge; (c) the Permit includes within its scope any part of an area already within the scope of any existing and current Exploration or Mining Licence; (d) the terms of the Permit would in the Authority‘s reasonable opinion be likely to lead to the contravention by any person of conditions or restrictions placed on any Marine Reserve or a Protected Area or cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment, human health or safety, or the interests of the Kingdom; or 2020 Revised Edition Page 31 (e) the Authority is aware of other grounds that reasonably indicate that the grant of the Prospecting Permit would be contrary to the interests of the Kingdom or contrary to the principles contained in section 2(2) of this Act.; Section 48. Obligations of Prospectors Prospectors shall- (a) adhere to the terms and conditions of the Prospecting Permit, this Act, the EIA Act, requirements prescribed by Regulations made under this Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Prospecting issued by the Authority; and (b) not proceed with Prospecting if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment or human life.; Section 49. Exploration and Mining within the Kingdom’s national jurisdiction Exploration and Mining may be carried out in an area of the Kingdom‘s territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zone or upon the Kingdom‘s Continental Shelf by any eligible person holding a valid Licence pertaining to that area.; Section 71. Part of Licence Area outside of national jurisdiction If part of the Licence Area includes or purports to include an area that is outside of the national jurisdiction of the Kingdom or an area that comprises or is within a Protected Area or a Marine Reserve, then the Licence remains valid, but does not authorise Seabed Mineral Activities to be carried out within that part.; Section 73. Variation, suspension, or revocation of a Licence (1) The Authority may vary, suspend, or revoke any Exploration Licence or Mining Licence under this section— (a) where any of the qualification criteria prescribed under regulations ceases to be met by the Licensee in a material particular; (b) if a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any person; or (b) the Marine Environment; (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; or (iii) avoid any situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international or domestic peace and security; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Licensee; (e) in order to secure or reasonably to promote compliance by the Licensee with the Licensee‘s obligations and undertakings under this Act, the Regulations and the Licence; (f) if the Licensee has failed to comply with a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to it; (g) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Licensee, or upon the Licensee ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (h) upon consultation with the Licensee, where the Licensee is prevented for a continuous period exceeding two years from undertaking the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities under the Licence despite taking all reasonable measures to do so, because of an event outside of the Licensee‘s control; Page 42 2020 Revised Edition (i) where no material efforts have been made by the Licensee to undertake the Licensed Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding two years; (j) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Licensee of - (i) a material undertaking or term or condition of the Licence; (ii) the provisions of this Act or Regulations made under this Act or other laws of the Kingdom; (iii) conditions imposed under the EIA Act; or (iv) requirement of an Order made under this Act, and such breach either cannot be remedied or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice by the Authority; (k) where the relevant Seabed Mineral Activities in the view of Cabinet constitute an unacceptable risk to the Kingdom or are clearly no longer in the interests of the Kingdom due to changes in the circumstances pertaining to the Activities including (without limitation) changes to - (i) the market for Seabed Minerals; (ii) best environmental practice pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; or (iii) the state of technology utilised for Seabed Mineral Activities, as well as the capacity of the Licensee to adapt to the changes in circumstances; (l) where any payment owing under section 75 or any part of this Act is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; or (m) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s prior approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section the Authority, shall unless the decision is made at the Licensee‘s request and on the exact terms of the Licensee‘s request, give to the Licensee at least ninety days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of that proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice or a copy of the notice has been given, and who objects to it, to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe. (3) If the Authority has suspended a Licence, it may by notice require the Licensee to resume its activities and comply with the terms and conditions of the Licence, not later than 90 days after such notice. (4) In lieu of variation, suspension or revocation under sub-sections (1)(a), (b), (c), (e), (f), (i), (j), and (l), the Authority may take any of the administrative 2020 Revised Edition Page 43 actions provided for in section 27 of this Act, or impose upon the Licensee monetary penalties proportionate to the seriousness of the violation and in any case not exceeding $1,000,000, which amount excludes any compensation payable for damage or harm. (5) The Authority shall not execute a decision involving monetary penalties under sub-section (4) until the Licensee has been accorded a reasonable opportunity to exhaust the judicial remedies available to it under the laws of the Kingdom. (6) In the event of termination or expiration of a Licence, the Licensee shall comply with the Regulations and shall remove all installations, plant, equipment and materials in the Licensed Area and shall make the Licensed Area and its surroundings safe so as not to constitute a danger to persons, shipping or to the Marine Environment. (7) Upon effecting a variation of a Licence the Authority shall- (a) prepare an instrument of variation signed by the Minister and the designated representative of the Licensee; (b) register the variation to that Licence in the register of Titles, maintained by the Authority under section 34 of this Act; (c) issue to the Licensee a copy of that instrument of variation; and (d) publish notice of the variation in the Gazette.; Section 79. Sponsorship Application (1) A Sponsorship Application shall be made in writing to the Authority and shall include – (a) evidence that the Sponsorship Applicant meets the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria; (b) the same content that is required by the Rules of the ISA for an application for approval of a plan of work to obtain a contract for the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) written undertakings that the Sponsorship Applicant – (i) will fully comply with its obligations under the Rules of the ISA and this Act; (ii) warranties that the content of the Sponsorship Application is true and accurate to the best of its belief; and (iii) intends to apply for a contract with the ISA to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area under the sponsorship of the Kingdom; (d) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to the potential of the proposed Contract Area; (e) copies or summaries of any studies conducted by the Sponsorship Applicant or other data in relation to potential impact of the Seabed Mineral Activities on the Marine Environment; (f) an indication insofar as known of the Sponsorship Applicant‘s proposed- (i) methods for financing the Seabed Mineral Activities; (ii) ownership, lease or other arrangement to use vessels and equipment required for the operation of the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (iii) insurance or contingency funding to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; Page 46 2020 Revised Edition (g) a list of employees required to operate the Seabed Mineral Activities, and an indication if any of these will be recruited from the Kingdom; (h) a capacity-building programme providing for the training of personnel of the Kingdom; (i) the Sponsorship Application fee required by the Act; (j) a statement as to whether the Sponsored Party or any of its Directors has previously been found on reasonable evidence to have- (i) breached a material term or condition of the Rules of the ISA; (ii) been convicted of an offence or incurred a civil penalty pertaining to the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or similar sea or land based activities in another jurisdiction; or (iii) been convicted of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (k) any other matters as may be prescribed. (2) For the purposes of sub-section (1)(a), the Sponsorship Qualification Criteria are that- (a) the Sponsorship Applicant- (i) is an existing body corporate, registered in the Kingdom; (ii) has, or will have at the commencement of the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities, sufficient financial and technical resources and capability - (aa) properly to perform the Seabed Mineral Activities in compliance with the Rules of the ISA; and (bb) to cover damage that may be caused by the Seabed Mineral Activities or the costs of responding to an Incident; (iii) has submitted a valid Application in accordance with this Act and Regulations, including the Sponsorship Application fee; (b) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are consistent with the Rules of the ISA in relation to environmental management; (c) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities are compatible with applicable national and international laws, including those relating to safety at sea and the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; and (d) the proposed Seabed Mineral Activities will not unduly affect – (i) the rights other legitimate sea users; (ii) the protection and preservation of the Marine Environment; or (iii) international and domestic peace and security. (3) A decision by an official organ of the ISA to grant to Sponsored Party a contract may be considered by the Authority as evidence in relation to its Sponsorship Certificate decision-making. 2020 Revised Edition Page 47; Section 88. Variation, suspension and revocation of Sponsorship Certificate (1) The Authority may vary, suspend or revoke any Sponsorship Certificate — (a) where any of the prerequisite conditions required under section 78 this Act ceases to be met by the Sponsored Party in a material particular; (b) where a security deposit required under section 93 of this Act is not deposited in accordance with this Act; (c) where the variation or revocation is in the reasonable opinion of the Authority necessary to - Page 50 2020 Revised Edition (i) prevent serious risk to— (a) the safety, health or welfare of any persons; or (b) the Marine Environment; or (ii) avoid a conflict with any obligation of the Kingdom arising out of any international agreement or instrument in force for the Kingdom; (d) in any case, with the consent of the Sponsored Party; (e) upon the bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership of the Sponsored Party, or upon the Sponsored Party ceasing to exist as a legal entity; (f) where no material efforts have been made by the Sponsored Party to undertake the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities for a period exceeding five years from the date of signing the contract with the ISA; (g) where there has been a serious, persistent or wilful breach by the Sponsored Party of the Rules of the ISA, the requirements of this Act or Regulations made under this Act, an Order made under this Act, or a final binding decision of a dispute settlement body applicable to the Sponsored Party, and such breach cannot be remedied by the Sponsored Party, or has not been remedied upon the giving of reasonable notice to the Sponsored Party by the Authority; (h) where, following at least two written notices given by the Authority to the Sponsored Party in accordance with this Act, any payment or deposit required or owing under this Act or any part thereof is in arrears or unpaid for six months following the day on which it ought to have been paid; (i) where the Sponsored Party knowingly or recklessly provides the ISA or the Authority with information that is false or misleading in a material particular, or fails to retain or wilfully alters, suppresses, conceals or destroys any document which is required to be produced to the ISA or the Authority; and (j) upon transfer, mortgage, lease of a Title, or significant change in the constitution, ownership or control of the Title Holder, without the Authority‘s approval. (2) Before making a decision under this section of the Act the Authority shall – (a) give to the Sponsored Party at least 30 days written notice of the Authority‘s intention to make the decision, setting out details of the proposed decision and the reasons for it, and inviting a person to whom the notice, or a copy of the notice has been given to make a written submission to the Authority about the proposal within a specified timeframe, if there are any objections; (b) give a copy of the notice to any such other persons as the Authority thinks fit; 2020 Revised Edition Page 51 (c) take into account any submissions made in accordance with the notice; and (d) where the decision is to revoke the Sponsorship Certificate, give the Sponsored Party no fewer than six months‘ notice before that revocation takes place.; Section 92. Recovery of payments owed by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties A sum of money payable pursuant to section 91 of this Act, is a debt due to the Kingdom, and may be recovered in the Supreme Court of Tonga or a court of competent jurisdiction, where- (a) in any such proceedings a certificate of the Authority certifying that a specified sum of money is so payable, shall be received as evidence of that fact; (b) any sum unpaid by the Title Holder may at the court‘s discretion be recovered from any security deposited by the Title Holder under section 93 of this Act; and (c) interest on the amount outstanding may additionally be charged at a prescribed or otherwise reasonable rate determined by the court.; Section 95. Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom’s national jurisdiction Marine Scientific Research may not be carried out within an area of the Kingdom‘s Exclusive Economic Zone or upon the Kingdom‘s Continental Shelf by any person, unless that person has first - (a) properly applied for the Kingdom‘s consent in accordance with this Act; and (b) received consent to that application for consent, or not received a denial of consent within six months of the date of that application for consent.; Section 100. Duties on parties conducting Marine Scientific Research Parties conducting Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction shall - (a) adhere to the terms of this Act, Regulations made under this Act, the EIA Act, and any rules or procedures relating to Marine Scientific Research issued by the Kingdom; (b) apply the Precautionary Approach and best environmental practices at all times; (c) conduct the Marine Scientific Research exclusively – (i) for peaceful purposes; and (ii) to increase scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind; (d) not proceed with Marine Scientific Research if there is evidence indicating that to proceed is likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (e) not unjustifiably interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea; (f) submit to the Authority a preliminary report, a final report, and assessment of data, samples and research results at such times and in such formats as are prescribed or agreed with the Authority prior to commencement of the project; (g) hold securely and provide the Authority with access at its request to all data and samples derived from the project; (h) work with the Authority to facilitate and support financially the participation of a representative of the Kingdom in the project; (i) inform the Authority of any major changes to the proposed Marine Scientific Research programme from the information provided in the application for consent; (j) submit to the Authority immediately by telephone and in writing notice of any incident arising from Marine Scientific Research that causes or is likely to cause - (i) Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; or (ii) Serious Harm to the safety, health or welfare of any person; and (k) after completion of the project, remove any installations or equipment unless otherwise agreed with the Authority. Page 56 2020 Revised Edition; Section 111. Objects of an archaeological or historical nature Any object of an archaeological or historical nature found by any Title Holder or person conducting Marine Scientific Research within the jurisdiction or control of the Kingdom shall be reported to the Authority and treated in accordance with its instructions, and shall be safeguarded pending receipt of those instructions.; Section 118. Import Duties (1) A Title Holder and its nominated contractors and subcontractors engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities are hereby permitted to import into Tonga‘s jurisdiction free of duty or other taxes on imports of machinery, equipment, vehicles, materials and supplies where imports of any of the said categories have been certified by the Title Holder to be for use solely in carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities under the Title. (2) Any of the items imported into the Kingdom may, if no longer required for the Seabed Mineral Activities, be freely exported at any time by the importing party without the payment of any export or import duty. (3) On the sale or transfer by the importer of any duty free imported items to any person in the Kingdom, import duty shall be payable by the importer on the value thereof at the date of such sale or transfer.; Section 119. Information-handling (1) All records, returns, reports, plans, maps, surveys, cores, samples, assays of samples, accounts and information (for the purposes of this section the “Seabed Minerals Data”) which a Title Holder is or may be from time to time required to furnish under the provisions of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act or a Title shall be supplied at the expense of the Title Holder. (2) The Authority shall not disclose Seabed Minerals Data to any person not in the service or employment of the Crown, except- (a) with the prior written consent of the Title Holder; (b) to the extent necessary in connection with the administration of this Act, as provided in subsection (3), or as prescribed; or (c) after twelve years from the date of receipt or until the expiry of any Title held by the Title Holder for the seabed area to which the Seabed Minerals Data relates, whichever is the longer. (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2), the Authority shall be entitled- (a) to make publicly available, as part of the register of Titles held pursuant to section 34 of this Act, aspects of the Seabed Minerals Data required to be recorded in the Register; (b) to make publicly available any documents required to be disclosed under any Regulations made under this Act, including Annual Reports, Applications and Titles; (c) to prepare and publish reports, statistics and surveys of a general nature using information derived from any of the Seabed Minerals Data; (d) where expedient in furtherance of its accountability function, to share information derived from the Seabed Minerals Data with the public of Tonga, provided that such disclosure would not be unduly prejudicial to the commercial interests of the Title Holder; and Page 62 2020 Revised Edition (e) to make use of the Seabed Minerals Data for the purpose of any arbitration or litigation between the Crown and a Title Holder. (4) Prior to any disclosure or publication under subsection (3) that the Authority considers may prejudice the commercial interests of a Title Holder, the Authority shall consult the Title Holder about the content and shall ensure any comments received from the Title Holder in relation to the intended disclosure or publication are given due consideration before any disclosure or publication occurs. (5) Nothing in this section shall permit disclosure without prior consent by the Authority of Seabed Minerals Data that is confidential under applicable law, including but not limited to, personnel matters, confidential technical or proprietary information and intellectual property relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, and privileged legal material. (6) Any employee or member of the Authority, or any other officer of the Crown who commits an offence in breach of this section, by- (a) disclosing Seabed Minerals Data; or (b) causing the loss of confidentiality of Seabed Minerals Data through reckless act or omission. (7) Any person who commits a breach of the type specified in subsection (6) is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $250,000 or ten years imprisonment.; Section 122. Disputes (1) Any dispute arising between the Kingdom and another State in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities shall be resolved pursuant to the provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. (2) Any dispute between the Kingdom and a Title Holder arising in connection with the administration of this Act shall be dealt with by- (a) the parties attempting to reach settlement by mutual agreement or mediation, and in the event this is not successful then; (b) by application to the Supreme Court of Tonga.; Section 123. Regulations and Ministerial Orders The Minister may, with the consent of Cabinet, make Regulations — (a) prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed under this Act; (b) generally for carrying this Act into effect; (c) without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following matters - (i) the gridding, mapping and allocation of blocks, cells and Licence Areas; (ii) classifying particular aspects of work relating to Seabed Minerals as a Major Project under the EIA Act, or absolutely prohibited due to unacceptable anticipated harm to the Marine Environment; (iii) requisite content, format, consultation processes, independent verification, and timeframe for an Environmental Impact Assessment and the establishment of environmental baseline data for Seabed Mineral Activities; (iv) prescribe further rules or processes pertaining to the handling by the Authority of conflicting Applications for the same Title pertaining to the same area; (v) environment management plans, and provision for areas of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf that have features that require a location-specific approach; (vi) prescribing the format, content, timeframe or processes for any Applications, reports or other data or information required under this Act; (vii) matters relating to the processes to be undertaken and the factors to be taken into account by the Authority in deciding whether or not to grant, review, vary, suspend, or revoke a Title; (viii) the terms of and a model version of a Title; (ix) the fiscal regime to be applied to Seabed Mineral Activities; Page 64 2020 Revised Edition (x) the operation of the Seabed Minerals Fund; (xi) provisions for post-Mining monitoring or other requirements relating to the closure of Seabed Mining Activities; (xii) information-handling for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (xiii) the holding of inquiries into accidents or other incidents causing harm to the Environment or human health and safety occurring in the course of any Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations; (xiv) Enforcement Orders and other sanctions, and powers connected with the investigation and administration of such Orders and other sanctions; (xv) providing that any prescribed breach of Regulations shall be an offence, and affording any defences available to any such offence; (xvi) the criminal penalty payable for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations, which shall not exceed $500,000; (xvii) a scheme of administrative penalties in lieu of a criminal penalty for any contravention of or failure to comply with the Regulations and the amount of administrative penalties payable, which penalties shall not exceed half of the applicable maximum criminal penalty; (xviii) further matters in relation to Prospecting Permits; (xix) further matters in relation to Exploration and Mining Licences; (xx) the prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (xxi) further matters in relation to Sponsorship Certificate or agreements; (xxii) that a Licensee shall be required to pay a Licence fee, the amount or manner of determining the Licence fee, and the times and manner of payment; or (xxiii) matters in relation to Marine Scientific Research within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction.
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 12; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: preamble/chapeau; Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 8; Paragraph 10; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 151. Politique en matière de production; Article 159. Composition, procédure et vote; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 165. La commission juridique et technique; Article 185. Suspension de l’exercice des droits et privilèges inhérents; Article 186. Chambre pour le règlement des différends relatifs aux; Article 187. Compétence de la chambre pour le règlement des; Article 188. Soumission des différends à une chambre spéciale du; Article 189. Limitation de compétence en ce qui concerne les; Article 190. Participation à la procédure et comparution des États; Article 191. Avis consultatifs
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 142. Rights and legitimate interests of coastal States; Article 151. Production policies; Article 159. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 161. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission; Article 185. Suspension of exercise of rights and privileges of membership; Article 186. Seabed Disputes Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea; Article 187. Jurisdiction of the Seabed Disputes Chamber; Article 188. Submission of disputes to a special chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea or an ad hoc chamber of the Seabed Disputes Chamber or to binding commercial arbitration; Article 189. Limitation on jurisdiction with regard to decisions of the Authority; Article 190. Participation and appearance of sponsoring States Parties in proceedings; Article 191. Advisory opinions
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term:; Section 970.510. Objections to terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 970.801. Criteria for safety of life and property at sea. Response to the safety at sea requirements in essence will involve vessel inspection requirements. These inspection requirements may be identified by reference to present laws and regulations. The primary inspection statutes pertaining to United States flag vessels are: 46 U.S.C. 86 (Loadlines); 46 U.S.C. 395 (Inspection of seagoing barges over 100 gross tons); 46 U.S.C. 367 (Inspection of sea-going motor vessels over 300 gross tons); and 46 U.S.C. 404 (Inspection of vessels above 15 gross tons carrying freight for hire). All United States flag vessels will be required to meet existing regulatory requirements applicable to such vessels. This includes the requirement for a current valid Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection, as specified in § 970.205. Being United States flag, these vessels will be under United States jurisdiction on the high seas and subject to domestic enforcement procedures. With respect to foreign flag vessels, the SOLAS 74 or SOLAS 60 certificate requirements or alternative IACS requirements, as specified in § 970.205, apply. [46 FR 45909, Sept. 15, 1981]
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term; Section 971.411. Objections to terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 971.701. Criteria for safety of life and property at sea. Response to the safety at sea requirements in essence will involve vessel inspection requirements, as identified by present laws and regulations. The primary inspection statutes pertaining to United States flag vessels are: 46 App. U.S.C. 86 (Loadlines) and 46 U.S.C. 3301 (Inspection of Seagoing Barges, Seagoing Motor Vessels, and Freight Vessels). United States flag vessels shall be required to meet all applicable regulatory requirements, including the requirement for a current valid Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection (pursuant to § 971.205(a) or, as applicable, pursuant to § 971.214(d)(7)(i)). United States flag vessels are under United States jurisdiction on the high seas and subject to domestic enforcement procedures. With respect to foreign flag vessels, the SOLAS 74 or SOLAS 60 certificate requirements specified in § 971.205(b), or, as applicable, specified in § 971.214(d)(7)(ii), apply. [54 FR 525, Jan. 6, 1989, as amended at 91 FR 2677, Jan. 21, 2026]; Section 971.900. Applicability. The regulations of this subpart govern the following hearings conducted by NOAA under this part and under 15 CFR part 970:; Section 971.901. Formal hearing procedures.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1401. Congressional findings and declaration of purpose.; Section 1402. International objectives.; Section 1403. Definitions.; Section 1412. Licenses for exploration and permits for commercial recovery.; Section 1413. License and permit applications, review, and certification.; Section 1415. License and permit terms, conditions, and restrictions; issuance and transfer of licenses and permits.; Section 1427. Civil actions.; Section 1428. Reciprocating states.; Section 1441. Declaration of Congressional intent.; Section 1461. Prohibited acts.; Section 1463. Criminal offenses.; Section 1464. Enforcement.; Section 1465. Liability of vessels.; Section 1466. Civil forfeitures.; Section 1467. Jurisdiction of courts.

privileges_immunities_and_legal_status (28)

Legal status, privileges and immunities of the Authority, the Enterprise and connected persons.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 35 Human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature][Underwater Cultural Heritage] [1. Exploitation activities in the Area shall be conducted in a way that does not affect human remains and [objects and sites of an archaeological or historical nature] [Underwater Cultural Heritage].
• ITLOS Declaration of Judge Kittichaisaree, 18 July 2026 (Cases Nos. 34 and 35): Paragraph 5
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau; Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 49
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 54. Registration of decisions by the Seabed Disputes Chamber. (1) A person may apply to the Supreme Court for an order for a decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber to be registered in the Supreme Court. (2) The Supreme Court may issue an order that the decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber involving a State may be registered. (3) No privilege or immunity that a State may claim against the enforcement of the decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber shall be affected by the registration of such decision. (4) The Republic waives the privilege or immunity in relation to a registered decision of the Seabed Disputes Chamber involving a Sponsored Party.
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 2; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 3
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 175. Vérification annuelle des comptes; Article 176. Statut juridique; Article 177. Privilèges et immunités; Article 181. Archives et communications officielles de l’Autorité; Article 182. Privilèges et immunités des personnes agissant dans le
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 135. Legal status of the superjacent waters and air space; Article 137. Legal status of the Area and its resources; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 170. The Enterprise; Article 175. Annual audit; Article 176. Legal status; Article 177. Privileges and immunities; Article 178. Immunity from legal process; Article 179. Immunity from search and any form of seizure; Article 180. Exemption from restrictions, regulations, controls and moratoria; Article 181. Archives and official communications of the Authority; Article 182. Privileges and immunities of certain persons connected with the Authority; Article 183. Exemption from taxes and customs duties

review_and_amendment (147)

Periodic review, the Review Conference, and procedures for amending the regime.

• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Dec 2025 consolidated draft [DRAFT]: Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application 1. The Secretary-General shall, within 7 Days after determining that an application for the approval of a Plan of Work is ready to progress pursuant to regulation 10, [taking into account the confidentiality of the data, place the Environmental Plans and all non confidential parts of Test Mining Report, if applicable submitted, including any supporting material on the Authority’s website for a period of consideration of an application by the Authority, and]consult with all States and Stakeholders in accordance with regulation 93ter on the application[, Environmental Plans and the non-confidential parts of all other documents accompanying the application pursuant to regulation 7]. 2. The Applicant shall consider the comments provided pursuant to paragraph 1 when fulfilling the requirement at regulation 93ter, paragraph 9. The Applicant shall submit any revised documentation and the written response to consultation as required by regulation 93ter, paragraph 9 to the Secretary-General [Alt. 1 within a period of 60 Days following the close of the comment period or such longer period as determined by the Secretary-General following a request by the Applicant. The Secretary-General may extend this time period [for a further 30 Days], upon a reasonable request by the Applicant to revise the plans or responses. Notice of the extension of the period shall be posted on the Authority’s website] [Alt. 2 in a timely manner].; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications 1. Subject to regulation 10 concerning preference and priority among Applicants, the Commission shall examine applications in the order in which they are received by the Secretary-General and shall assess applications in accordance with this regulation and against the criteria contained in regulation 13, in order to make a report and [submit appropriate] recommendations to the Council whether the Plan of Work under application should be approved, or disapproved, pursuant to regulation 15. [1. bis Subject to paragraph 1 ter., the Commission shall commence the consideration of an application at its next meeting after its receipt of the application provided that the notifications and information pursuant to regulation 11, paragraph 2 bis have been circulated at least 90 Days prior to the commencement of that meeting of the Commission. The Commission may extend consideration of the application to its next meeting if necessary.] [1. bis. Alt. The Commission shall commence its consideration of an application within 30 Days of its receipt of the application, including via virtual and intersessional meetings in addition to its regular meetings, if necessary.]; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 25 Alt. Documents to be submitted prior to production; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 44 ter Environmental Goal and Objectives; Regulation 52. Performance assessments of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; Regulation 55. Purpose of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The purpose of the ECF is to provide adequate compensation for any damage arising from activities conducted under an Exploitation Contract in cases where a Contractor does not meet its liability in full, and where all other options under these Regulations for claiming compensation from the Contractor have been exhausted, while the Sponsoring State is not liable under article 139, paragraph 2, of the Convention. Compensation includes the costs of reasonable measures undertaken to prevent, limit, or remedy damage to the Marine Environment [, as well as those related to restitution, Restoration and Rehabilitation]. 2. The operation of the ECF shall be subject to periodic review.]; Regulation 60. Final Closure Plan: Cessation of [Commercial] Production; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 22 and Instruments of Transfer or Assignment in accordance with regulation 23;; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Section 4. Periodic review of inspection, compliance and enforcement mechanism; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the approval of these Regulations by the Assembly] [Alt. 2 the signature of the first Exploitation Contract] [Alt. 3 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also reasonably undertake such a review at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall take a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract
• Draft Exploitation Regulations / Mining Code — Rev.3 (19 June 2026) [DRAFT]: Regulation 11. Publication, notification, and review of the Application; Regulation 12. Rules for considering applications; Regulation 14. Amendments to the proposed Plan of Work; Regulation 20. Term and extension of Exploitation Contracts; Regulation 25 Alt. Documents to be submitted prior to production; Regulation 28. Maintaining Commercial Production; Regulation 44 bis. Regional Environmental Management Plans; Regulation 51. Closure Plan; Regulation 55. Purpose of the Environmental Compensation Fund [1. The purpose of the ECF is to provide adequate compensation for any damage arising from activities conducted under an Exploitation Contract in cases where a Contractor does not meet its liability in full, and where all other options under these Regulations for claiming compensation from the Contractor have been exhausted, while the Sponsoring State is not liable under article 139, paragraph 2, of the Convention. Compensation includes the costs of reasonable measures undertaken to prevent, limit, or remedy damage to the Marine Environment [, as well as those related to restitution, Restoration and Rehabilitation].; Regulation 71. Information to be submitted; Regulation 90. Procedures to ensure confidentiality; Regulation 92. Seabed Mining Register; Regulation 94. Adoption of Standards; Regulation 95. Issuance of Guidelines; Section 4. Periodic review of inspection, compliance and enforcement mechanism; Regulation 105 bis. Periodic Review of Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Mechanism; Regulation 107. Review of these Regulations [1. Five years following [Alt. 1 the conclusion of the first Exploitation Contract]/[Alt. 2 the first date of commencement of Commercial Production], the Council shall undertake a comprehensive review of the manner in which these Regulations have operated in practice and may also undertake additional reviews [to the extent necessary] at any time thereafter.] [1. Alt. The Council shall undertake a full review of these Regulations. This review shall, at least, include:; Annex IX. Exploitation Contract and schedules THIS CONTRACT made the … day of … between the INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY represented by its SECRETARY-GENERAL (hereinafter referred to as “the Authority”) and … represented by … (hereinafter referred to as “the Contractor”) WITNESSETH as follows: A. Incorporation of clauses The standard clauses set out in Annex X to the Regulations on exploitation of Resources in the Area shall be incorporated herein and shall have effect as if herein set out at length. B. Contract Area For the purposes of this Contract, the “Contract Area” means that part of the Area allocated to the Contractor for Exploitation, defined by the coordinates listed in schedule 1 hereto. C. Grant of rights In consideration of (a) their mutual interest in the conduct of Exploitation in the Contract Area pursuant to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 and the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the Convention, (b) the rights and responsibility of the Authority to organize and control activities in the Area, particularly with a view to administering the Resources of the Area, in accordance with the legal regime established in Part XI of the Convention and the Agreement and Part XII of the Convention, respectively, and (c) the interest and financial commitment of the Contractor in conducting activities in the Contract Area and the mutual covenants made herein, the Authority hereby grants to the Contractor the exclusive right to Explore for and Exploit [specified Resource category] in the Contract Area in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Contract. D. Entry into force and Contract term This Contract shall enter into force on signature by both parties and, subject to the standard clauses, shall remain in force for an initial period of [x] years thereafter unless the Contract is sooner terminated, provided that this Contract may be renewed in accordance with the Regulations. E. Entire agreement This Contract expresses the entire agreement between the parties, and no oral understanding or prior writing shall modify the terms hereof. F. Languages This Contract will be provided and executed in the [ … and] English language[s] [and both texts are valid]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by the respective parties, have signed this Contract at …, this … day of …. The Schedules to the Exploitation Contract
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de costras de ferromanganeso cobálticas (2012) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4
• Règlement ISA — exploration des encroûtements cobaltifères (2012) [FR]: Article 44. Révision
• Правила МОМД — разведка кобальтоносных корок (2012 г.) [RU]: Правило 44. Обзор; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 24. Пересмотр
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 富钴铁锰结壳探矿和勘探（2012年）[ZH]: 第4条对通知的审理; 第21条申请费; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第43条钴结壳以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现钴结壳以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Cobalt-rich Crusts Exploration Regulations (2012): Regulation 30. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 44. Review
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de nódulos polimetálicos (2013) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4
• Règlement ISA — exploration des nodules polymétalliques (2013) [FR]: Article 42. Révision
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических конкреций (2013 г.) [RU]: Правило 42. Обзор; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 24. Пересмотр
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属结核探矿和勘探（2013年）[ZH]: 第4条对通知的考虑; 第19条申请费; 第21条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第28条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第31条保护和保全海洋环境; 第34条沿海国的权利; 第36条数据和资料的机密性; 第41条多金属结核以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属结核以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第42条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Nodules Exploration Regulations (2013): preamble/chapeau; Regulation 28. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 31. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 42. Review
• Reglamento ISA — exploración de sulfuros polimetálicos (2010) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4
• Règlement ISA — exploration des sulfures polymétalliques (2010) [FR]: Article 44. Révision
• Правила МОМД — разведка полиметаллических сульфидов (2010 г.) [RU]: Правило 44. Обзор; Раздел 2. Гарантия обладания контрактом; Раздел 4. Разведка; Раздел 24. Пересмотр
• 国际海底管理局规章 — 多金属硫化物探矿和勘探（2010年）[ZH]: 第4条对通知的审理; 第21条申请费; 第23条法律和技术委员会的审议; 第30条对勘探工作计划执行情况的定期审查; 第33条保护和保全海洋环境; 第36条沿海国的权利; 第38条数据和资料的机密性; 第43条多金属硫化物以外的其他资源如果探矿者或承包者在“区域”内发现多金属硫化物以外的其他资源，这些资源的探矿、勘探和开发应按照管理局根据《公约》和《协定》就这些资源制定的规则、规章和程序进行。探矿者或承包者应将其发现通知管理局。; 第44条审查
• ISA Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Regulations (2010): Regulation 30. Periodic review of the implementation of the plan of work for exploration; Regulation 33. Protection and preservation of the marine environment; Regulation 44. Review
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): preamble/chapeau
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 49
• SBMA Regulations 2025 (Nauru): Section 11. 11. (e) the information contained in the sponsorship application, and any amendments to the application; (f) any technical presentation made by the applicant to the Authority during the course of its evaluation; (g) any written information received in response to requests made by the Authority under Section 16 of the Act and regulations 6 and 11; (h) any expert report, analysis, or advice obtained under regulation 7; (i) any information obtained by the Authority from other national, regional or international regulatory agencies, including the ISA; and (j) the results of any consultation conducted by the applicant or the Authority with any interest groups or the general public in Nauru. Request for further information by the Authority The Authority, prior to making its recommendation, may, within 10 days after the date on which the Chief Executive Officer refers the application to the Board under regulation 9(3):; Section 12. (a). request, through the Chief Executive Officer, that the applicant provide further information considered necessary by the Board to assess the criteria under Section 17(1) of the Act; (b) request that the applicant submit modifications to the application; or (c) obtain advice from the Chief Executive Officer who may engage Approved Experts as necessary to assist in the Board’s review and assessment of the Qualification Criteria or in formulating any specific conditions under regulation 24. Amendment of applications during assessment An applicant may, at any time before a recommendation is made to the Cabinet by the Authority, amend an application:; Section 57. Periodic Review of Seabed Mineral Activities. (1) Pursuant to Section 11(1)(l) of the Act, the Sponsored Party and the Authority shall undertake a joint annual review of the Seabed Mineral Activities, at intervals not exceeding 5-years from the date of the sponsorship certificate. (2) In order to avoid any unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements, the timing of such reviews shall, where practicable, coincide with the review of a Plan of Work by the ISA under the relevant Rules of the ISA and where the Authority is invited to participate in such ISA reviews. (3) Notwithstanding subregulation (2), the Authority may request a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities in accordance with the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement. (4) Nothing in this regulation shall preclude the Authority or the Sponsored Party from making a request to initiate a review of the Seabed Mineral Activities. (5) The Authority may invite representatives from the ISA, any relevant Ministry, or Approved Experts to participate in the joint review. (6) A review under this regulation will be conducted in accordance with the Applicable Guideline.; Section 62. Service of documents. (1) Where a notice or other document is to be served by the Authority on a person for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the business or registered office of the Sponsored Party in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (2) Where a notice or other document is to be served on the Authority by a Sponsored Party for the purposes of the Act and these Regulations, it may be served: (a) (b) by: (i) sending it to the electronic address or addresses specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; or (ii) delivering it to the Authority’s principal place of business in the Republic as specified in the Sponsorship Agreement; and requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice or other document. (3) Where the Authority or person does not confirm receipt under subregulation (1) or (2) respectively within 7 days after the sending of an electronic mail or the expected delivery date to the place of business or registered office, the sender shall contact the other party by telephone or in person to confirm receipt, otherwise receipt shall be deemed served the day after delivery pursuant to Section 65 of the Act.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 11. Functions of the Authority. (1) The functions of the Authority are to: (a) be responsible for the Effective Control of the Sponsored Party; (b) develop standards and guidelines for Sponsored Parties to undertake Seabed Mineral Activities; (c) assist and guide persons who seek sponsorship from the Republic to become Sponsored Parties for the purposes of carrying out Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters under the UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (d) receive, evaluate and conduct due diligence and enquiries for Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; (e) compile a report with its recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of any Sponsorship Application for Cabinet’s consideration; (f) prepare draft Sponsorship Agreements for approval by the Cabinet under Section 25; (g) prepare and issue Sponsorship Certificates for successful Sponsorship Applicants once approval is granted by the Cabinet; (h) communicate with the ISA and any other relevant international organisations to facilitate a Sponsored Party’s application to the ISA for a contract, renewal or extension; (i) facilitate the Republic’s and its Sponsored Party’s understanding of and compliance with UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA, this Act and other applicable international laws related to Seabed Mineral Activities; (j) assist the ISA in its work to establish, monitor, implement and secure compliance by a Sponsored Party with UNCLOS and the Rules of the ISA; (k) undertake any advisory, supervisory or enforcement activities in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment, insofar as this is required in addition to the ISA’s work in order for the Republic to meet its obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (l) require and review relevant reports and information and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (m) establish contractual arrangements with any parties sub-contracted by the Republic to carry out aspects of Seabed Mineral Activities and ensure the terms and conditions of those contracts will hold the contractor to necessary standards to ensure compliance with the UNCLOS, the relevant Rules of the ISA and this Act with Cabinet approval; (n) assist the Secretary for Finance to negotiate financial terms in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities with Sponsored Parties and other parties engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) seek advice from Approved Experts to assist the Authority in the discharge of its functions under this Act; (p) cooperate with the ISA as may be required by the Rules of the ISA, including cooperation towards the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of administrative procedures and compliance requirements; (q) monitor compliance with this Act to enforce the requirements of this Act and of regulations made and sponsorship conditions granted under it; (r) conduct periodic reviews of the sponsored Seabed Mineral Activities with the Sponsored Party in accordance with the prescribed procedures; (s) appoint technical committees or such other specialised persons to assist the Authority in carrying out its functions and the objectives of this Act; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified for the purpose of observers to assist with the Authority‘s monitoring, compliance and enforcement functions; (u) share publicly, non-confidential information about Seabed Mineral Activities to inform the work of the Authority and promote public awareness of the requirements of this Act; (v) take into account any recommendations arising from consultation under paragraph (w) or from Cabinet, in its decision-making; (w) consult with persons of relevant expertise, interest groups or the general public before making a decision or action under this Act; (x) develop policies and institutional arrangements for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; and (y) perform such other functions as may be directed in writing by the Minister or the Cabinet. (2) The Cabinet or the Minister may give directions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, the Rules of the ISA and the UNCLOS, as to the performance of functions and duties by the Authority.; Section 24. Material Changes and updated information. (1) A Sponsored Party shall without delay notify the Authority in writing, where: (a) any of the information provided pursuant to Section 23 of this Act is proposed to be changed in any material particular, including as a result of comments received or amendments required by the ISA during the Sponsored Party’s application for an ISA contract or amendments to the relevant Rules of the ISA; or (b) any new or updated information arises that materially affects the Sponsored Party’s ability to meet the Qualification Criteria. (2) Where a notification is made pursuant to subsection (1), the Sponsored Party shall consider any comments provided by the Authority in relation to such proposed changes, including proposed changes to the Sponsorship Agreement.; Section 30. Responsibilities of Nauru as a Sponsoring State. Where the Republic is sponsoring a Sponsored Party which holds a corresponding ISA Contract to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities, the Government or through the Authority shall: (a) take all appropriate means to exercise its Effective Control over Sponsored Parties or any relevant sub-contractors engaged by the Republic, seeking to ensure that any Seabed Mineral Activities are carried out in conformity with the UNCLOS, Rules of the ISA and this Act; (b) do all things reasonably necessary to give effect to its sponsorship of a Sponsored Party, including undertaking any communication with and providing any assistance, documentation, certificates and undertakings to the ISA or other relevant party required in respect of the Sponsorship; (c) not impose unnecessary, disproportionate or duplicate regulatory burden on Sponsored Parties, nor impose requirements upon a Sponsored Party under this Act or Regulations unless these are consistent with existing requirements imposed by the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law; (d) promote the application of the precautionary approach and implementation of best environmental practices and best available techniques in cooperation with the ISA and the Sponsored Party; (e) comply with its due diligence obligations under the UNCLOS as a Sponsoring State; (f) within its competence and capabilities and in accordance with the UNCLOS and the relevant Rules of the ISA, adopt a plan to implement and modify measures for the effective protection of the Marine Environment which may arise from Seabed Mineral Activities, in cooperation with the ISA or on the advice of Approved Experts; (g) cooperate with the ISA to provide such data and information as is reasonably necessary for the ISA to discharge its duties and responsibilities under the UNCLOS in respect of Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) assist the ISA in carrying out supervision, monitoring, audits and inspections of the Sponsored Party and cooperate with coastal States and flag States where relevant, with the aim to ensure the Sponsored Party’s compliance with the Rules of the ISA; (i) assist the Sponsored Party in any interaction with the ISA relating to the administration of the ISA Contract, including clarification of any requirements under the Rules of the ISA; (j) provide the Sponsored Party with copies of any information or notices received by the Authority from the ISA, States Parties, other regulatory bodies or persons relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities; and (k) accord the Sponsored Party fair and equitable treatment, and provide a stable and predictable legal framework and make decisions consistently and transparently; (l) keep the Sponsored Party informed of any amendments to any written law and the regulatory regime that may affect a Sponsored Party or their Seabed Mineral Activities and provide a Sponsored Party sufficient time to ensure that they are able to comply with those changes; (m) not nationalise or expropriate a Sponsored Party’s investment or take measures having effect equivalent to nationalisation or expropriation except for on a non-discriminatory basis and against prompt adequate and effective compensation, such compensation shall: (i) amount to the genuine value of the Sponsored Party’s investment immediately before the expropriation or before the impending expropriation becomes public knowledge whichever is the earlier; (ii) include interest at a normal commercial rate until the date of payment; (iii) be made without delay; (iv) be effectively realisable; and (v) be freely transferable; (n) accord all Sponsored Parties treatment no less favourable that the treatment it accords, in like situations, to other investors; (o) accord Sponsored Parties full security and protection; and (p) guarantee the conversion and transfer overseas of Sponsored Parties’ earnings and savings or earnings of expatriate personnel, their affiliates and subcontractors, resulting from the Seabed Minerals Activities.; Section 68. Regulations. (1) The Cabinet may make regulations under this Act prescribing anything required or authorised to be prescribed generally to give full effect to the Act. (2) Any regulations made shall be consistent with this Act, the UNCLOS, the Rules of the ISA and other applicable standards of international law. (3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), Regulations may be made with respect to any of the following: (a) prescribe applicable fees for matters under this Act or the regulations, including a method for determining those fees; (b) prescribe more stringent measures than those in the Rules of the ISA pursuant to Annex III Article 21(3) of the UNCLOS, including measures relating to or contributing to the effective protection of the Marine Environment pursuant to Article 145 of UNCLOS; (c) prescribe for any prerequisite conditions to the issue by the Authority of a Sponsorship Certificate; (d) prescribe the format, content, time limits or processes for any applications, reports or other data or information or records required under this Act; (e) prescribe the standard terms and conditions of any Sponsorship Agreement; (f) prescribe how a document may be served for the purposes of this Act; (g) prescribe for any measures to assist the ISA in regulating Seabed Mineral Activities; (h) prescribe for the management and investigation of incidents, including the holding of inquiries into incidents or other accidents; (i) prescribe for the exchange of information and data to facilitate compliance with and enforcement of applicable international rules and standards; (j) prescribe for the conferral of regulatory powers under this Act on officers, observers or inspectors and the conditions on which such powers may be exercised; (k) prescribe for the format and content of consultation processes relating to environmental impact assessment; (l) prescribe for the independent auditing or verification of environmental management and safety management systems and environmental and safety performance; (m) prescribe for matters relating to the due diligence assessment of Sponsorship Applicants, Affiliates and Associates; (n) prescribe for information-handling procedures for any data received or held by the Authority in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) prescribe rules designed to ensure the health and safety of persons working on vessels or installations or using equipment for Seabed Mineral Activities; (p) prescribe for matters relating to the calculation, administration, and management of the Seabed Minerals Recovery Payment; (q) prescribe for matters relating to the closure of Seabed Mineral Activities, and post closure monitoring; (r) prescribe for the content and form of an indemnity; (s) prescribe for the content and procedures for periodic reviews; (t) prescribe for the deposit or payment of guarantees or contingency funding, and regulating how that money is dealt with; (u) provide that any prescribed breach of Regulations or breach of the terms and conditions of a Sponsorship Agreement shall be an offence and affording any defences available to any such offence, including: (i) offences carrying a maximum penalty not exceeding: (A) $2,000,000 fine for a corporation; and (B) $300,000 fine, for an individual; or (ii) civil penalties carrying a maximum penalty of $2,000,000 for a corporation and $150,000 for an individual; or (v) prescribe for any other matters contemplated by this Act and necessary for its administration by the Authority or necessary for giving it full effect.; Section 69. Consequential amendment. Schedule 2 to the Public Enterprises Act 2019 is amended in Item 2 by: (a) deleting ‘and’ at the end of paragraph (b); (b) deleting the fullstop and substituting with ‘; and’ at the end of paragraph (c) (c) inserting the following new paragraph (d): ‘(d) Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority.’.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 12. Functions of the Authority (1) To ensure the implementation of this Act, the Authority has the following functions, to - 2020 Revised Edition Page 15 (a) develop policies for the purpose of regulating and monitoring the development of the Tongan Seabed Minerals sector; (b) manage the designation and allocation of Titles, and maintain records of Titles granted and the blocks or cells of seabed to which they relate; (c) develop standards and guidelines for Seabed Mineral Activities, and provide advice and guidance in relation to Applications, Titles, Seabed Mineral Activities and associated matters; (d) conduct due diligence enquiry into Applicant Prospectors, Licensees or Sponsored Parties; (e) receive and evaluate Applications to conduct Seabed Mineral Activities under the Kingdom‘s control or sponsorship; (f) review or obtain a review of Environmental Impact Assessments for Seabed Mineral Activities required under this Act and the EIA Act; (g) recommend to Cabinet whether or not Seabed Mineral Activities are to be permitted, and on what terms; (h) prepare Prospecting Permits, Licences and Sponsorship Certificates; (i) receive and assess reporting documents from Title Holders; (j) monitor the performance and impact of Seabed Mineral Activities, and compliance by Title Holders with the terms of this Act, any Regulations made under this Act, and the relevant Title; (k) monitor the continuing validity of the terms of a Title; (l) effect the amendment of the terms of a Title where expedient, and in accordance with this Act; (m) enforce sanctions for non-compliance with this Act, Regulations made under this Act, or a Title; (n) require and review relevant reports and information from Title Holders, and maintain appropriate records, pertaining to Seabed Mineral Activities; (o) share information and consult about Seabed Mineral Activities with the general public as appropriate; (p) publish and submit to Parliament an annual report of Seabed Mineral Activities not later than ninety days after the end of each calendar year; (q) provide technical assistance to other Government agencies of the Kingdom in all matters relevant to Seabed Minerals; (r) liaise with the ISA and any other relevant international organisation in accordance with the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea to facilitate the lawful conduct of Seabed Minerals Activities or the protection of the Marine Environment; (s) seek expert advice on factual matters pertaining to the administration of this Act and concerning the management of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals, including but not limited to advice on economic, legal, Page 16 2020 Revised Edition scientific, and technical matters, and including advice from experts in the management and conservation of the Marine Environment; (t) appoint such persons appearing to the Authority to be qualified based on their expertise for the purpose, to assist in the discharge of its functions and generally in the execution of this Act, as is considered appropriate from time to time. (2) The Authority may make to any person appointed under sub-section (1)(s) or (t), who is not already within the employ of the Authority such payments by way of remuneration as the Minister may determine, in consultation with the Remuneration Authority and with the approval of Cabinet. (3) Nothing in this section shall permit the Authority or Cabinet to delegate to third parties its power to take and approve the decisions listed in section 18 of this Act.; Section 63. Review of Licences (1) A joint review and amendment of each Licence work plan, anticipated annual expenditure, and time schedule by the Authority- (a) will be performed after completion of any Environmental Impact assessment conducted after the date of issue of the Licence; and (b) may be performed periodically at the request of the Licensee or the Authority upon material new information coming to the attention of the Licensee or the Authority. (2) The Licensee may be required to submit additional data for the purposes of such a review. (3) The review shall be conducted in accordance with any prescribed procedures, or procedures provided by the Licence. (4) The Authority shall obtain the consent of Cabinet, before a Mining Licence is varied in a material particular.; Section 125. Consequential Amendments (1) The Minerals Act is amended by repealing the definition of “land” in section 2. (2) In respect of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act - (a) Seabed Mineral Mining, as defined by this Act, shall be deemed a ‘Major Project’ for the purposes of the EIA Act, and is hereby added to the Schedule to that Act; (b) Seabed Mineral Exploration, as defined by this Act, which upon preliminary assessment by the Minister of the Crown charged by the Prime Minister to have responsibility for the Environment is considered likely to cause Serious Harm to the Environment shall be deemed a ‘Major Project’ for the purposes of the EIA Act, and is hereby added to the Schedule to that Act. Page 66 2020 Revised Edition
• Acuerdo de 1994 sobre la aplicación de la Parte XI [ES]: Paragraph 16
• Accord de 1994 relatif à l’application de la partie XI [FR]: Article 10. Textes faisant foi L’original du présent Accord, dont les textes anglais, arabe, chinois, espagnol, français et russe font également foi, est déposé auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies. EN FOI DE QUOI, les Plénipotentiaires soussignés, à ce dûment autorisés, ont signé le présent Accord. FAIT À NEW YORK, le ... juillet mil neuf cent quatre-vingt-quatorze. Annexe
• 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement: Article 10. Authentic texts
• CNUDM Parte XI (La Zona) [ES]: Paragraph 3; Paragraph 6; Paragraph 1; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 3; Paragraph 4; Paragraph 5; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 8; Paragraph 2; Paragraph 2
• CNUDM Partie XI (La Zone) [FR]: Article 151. Politique en matière de production; Article 155. Conférence de révision; Article 160. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 161. Composition, procédure et vote; Article 162. Pouvoirs et fonctions; Article 165. La commission juridique et technique
• UNCLOS Part XI (The Area): Article 151. Production policies; Article 154. Periodic review; Article 155. The Review Conference; Article 160. Powers and functions; Article 161. Composition, procedure and voting; Article 162. Powers and functions; Article 165. The Legal and Technical Commission
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term:; Section 970.213. Amendment to an application. After an application has been submitted to the Administrator, but before a determination is made on the issuance or transfer of a license, the applicant must submit an amendment to the application if required by a significant change in the circumstances represented in the original application and affecting the requirements of this subpart. Applicants should consult with NOAA to determine if changes in circumstances are sufficiently significant to require submission of an amendment. The application, as amended, would then serve as the basis for determinations by the Administrator under this part. For each amendment judged by the Administrator to be significant, he will provide a copy of such amendment to each other Federal agency and department which received a copy of the original application, and also will provide for public notice, hearing and comment on the amendment pursuant to § 970.212. Such amendment, however, will not affect the priority of right established by the filing of the original application. After the issuance of or transfer of a license, any revision by the licensee will be made pursuant to § 970.513.; Section 970.300. Purposes and definitions.; Section 970.302. Procedures and criteria for resolving conflicts.; Section 970.303. Procedures for new entrants.; Section 970.304. Action on portions of applications or amendments not in conflict. If an applicant so requests, the Administrator will proceed in accordance with this part to review that portion of an area included in an application or amendment that is not involved in a conflict. However, the Administrator will proceed with such review only if the applicant advises the Administrator in writing that the applicant will continue to seek a license for the proposed exploration activities in the portion of the application area that is not in conflict. To the extent practicable, the deadlines for certification of an application or amendment and issuance of a license provided in §§ 970.400 and 970.500, respectively, will run from the date of filing of the original application.; Section 970.900. Other applicable regulations. The regulations in subparts H, I and J of 15 CFR part 971 are consolidated regulations and are applicable both to licenses under this part and to permits under 15 CFR part 971. The regulations in subparts H, I and J of part 971 govern records to be maintained and information to be submitted by licensees and permittees, public disclosure of documents received by NOAA, relinquishment and surrender of licenses and permits, amendment of regulations, competition of time, uniform hearing procedures, and enforcement under the Act. [54 FR 548, Jan. 6, 1989] Subparts J-W [Reserved]
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.213. Amendment to an application. After an application has been submitted to the Administrator, but before a determination is made on the issuance or transfer of a permit, the applicant must submit an amendment to the application if there is a significant change in the circumstances represented in the original application which affects the requirements of this subpart. Applicants should consult with NOAA to determine if changes in circumstances are sufficiently significant to require submission of an amendment. The application, as amended, would then serve as the basis for determinations by the Administrator under this part. For each amendment judged by the Administrator to be significant, the Administrator will provide a copy of that amendment to each other Federal agency and department which received a copy of the original application, and also will provide for public notice, hearing and comment on the amendment pursuant to § 971.212. After the issuance or transfer of a permit, any revision of the permit will be made pursuant to; Section 971.413. . Any amendment or modification which would cause coastal zone effects substantially different than. those originally reviewed by the state agency would be subject to Federal consistency review as prescribed in 15 CFR part 930.; Section 971.804. Amendment to regulations for conservation, protection of the environment, and. safety of life and property at sea. The Administrator may amend the regulations in this part and 15 CFR part 970 at any time as the Administrator determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to provide for the conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment, or the safety of life and property at sea. The amended regulations will apply to all exploration or commercial recovery activities conducted under any license or permit issued or maintained pursuant to this part or 15 CFR part 970, except that amended regulations which provide for conservation of natural resources will apply to activities conducted under an existing license or permit during the present term of that license or permit only if the Administrator determines that the amended regulations providing for conservation of natural resources will not impose serious or irreparable economic hardship on the licensee or permittee. Any amendment to regulations under this section will be made pursuant to the procedures in subpart I of this part.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1468. Regulations.

us_non_unclos_parallel_regime (190)

Provisions of the US DSHMRA/OCSLA track operating outside the ISA regime (national parallel track).

• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 34, NORI v. ISA): Article 189 of the Convention
• ITLOS Order of 18 July 2026 (Case No. 35, TOML v. ISA): Paragraph 135
• ISMA 2015 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires: ‘Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Department’ means the administration of this law; Department responsible for the ‘Exploitation’ means the recovery of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals, including the construction and operation of all mining, processing and transportation systems for the production and marketing of metals, in the Area; ‘Exploration’ means the: (a) search for deposits of Seabed Minerals with exclusive rights; (b) analysis of such deposits; (c) use and testing of recovery systems and equipment, processing facilities and transportation systems in the Area; and (d) carrying out of studies of the environmental, technical, economic, commercial and other appropriate factors that must be taken into account in Exploitation; An ‘Incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; or (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; or (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; or (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘Marine Environment’ means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this law; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer Nauru’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘Precautionary Principle’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Prescribed’ means prescribed by Regulations or other subsidiary legislation made under this Act; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that must be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in section 23 of this Act; ‘Regulations’ means regulations made under this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under contract with the ISA under Nauru’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; person applying for a ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by Nauru under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in the accordance with Article 153(2) (b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘The Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)’ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994; the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982, and any Annexes thereto. (2)Unless a contrary intention appears, words and expressions used in this Act are accorded the same meaning used in the UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.
• SBMA Act 2024 (Nauru): Section 4. Interpretation. (1) In this Act: ‘Affiliate’ in relation to a Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party, means any person that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party; ‘Approved Expert’ means an economic, legal, scientific, technical or other expert who is qualified and competent and engaged by the Authority or otherwise engaged by any State, international or regional organisation providing technical service assistance to the Republic, to assess, audit, analyse or verify certain data and information in connection with Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Area’ means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, as defined in Article 1(1) of the UNCLOS; ‘Associate’ means a person who acts on behalf of, or enters into an agreement with a Sponsored Party, or a Sponsored Party’s Affiliate to carry out all or part of the Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Best Available Information’ means the best information that, in the particular circumstances, is available without unreasonable cost, effort or time; ‘confidential information’ means all information that is disclosed to the Authority by the Sponsorship Applicant or Sponsored Party or by their Affiliates or Associates, including but not limited to, information relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, technology, processes and know-how, the location and prospective locations of the Seabed Minerals, confidential information that is restricted or proprietary under any contract or agreement with a third party, business details, customers or suppliers, all technical and research data relating to the Seabed Mineral Activities, financial information and business relationships or other trade secrets or commercially sensitive information; ‘Contingency Plan’ means the emergency response and contingency plan or equivalent plan required of Sponsored Parties by the relevant Rules of the ISA; ‘dump’ has the same meaning as ‘dumping’ under the UNCLOS; ‘Effective Control’ means such sponsorship oversight and regulatory control activities exercised by the Authority when taking all necessary and appropriate measures to secure effective compliance by a Sponsored Party with the relevant Rules of the ISA and any written law of the Republic; ‘Exploitation’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Exploitation Regulations’ means the regulations governing exploitation of Seabed Minerals in the Area adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; s4 ‘Exploration’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploration Regulations; ‘Exploration Regulations’ means the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Area, the regulations on prospecting and exploration for polymetallic sulphides in the Area and the regulations on prospecting and exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Area, adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on it by the UNCLOS and as replaced or amended by the ISA from time to time; ‘incident’ occurs when: (a) any ship or installation or other similar item or structure while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities results in significant unanticipated or unlawful adverse impact to or pollution of the Marine Environment; (d) the International Seabed Authority issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; (e) a Sponsored Party implements a Contingency Plan whether under the relevant Rules of the ISA or otherwise; or (f) any other event occurs that is defined as an “Incident” by the relevant Rules of the ISA. ‘International Seabed Authority’ or ‘ISA’ means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI, Section 4 of the UNCLOS as the organisation through which State Parties shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; ‘ISA Contract’ means a contract for exploration or exploitation entered into between the ISA and a Sponsored Party; ‘ISA Contract Area’ means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Marine Environment’ has the meaning given to it under the Exploitation Regulations; ‘Marine Scientific Research’ means any lawful study, research or other related scientific activity within the Area whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all humankind; ‘Minister’ means the Minister responsible for the administration of this Act; ‘Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority’ or ‘the Authority’ means the body established under Part 2 of this Act to administer the Republic’s sponsorship of Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘person’ includes any natural person or business enterprise and includes but is not limited to, a corporation, partnership, cooperative, association, s4 the Republic or any subdivision or agency, and any foreign State, subdivision or agency of such State or other entity; ‘precautionary approach’ means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing costeffective measures to prevent environmental degradation; ‘Qualification Criteria’ means the criteria that shall be met before a Sponsorship Certificate can be issued, as stipulated in Section 17 of this Act; ‘Rules of the ISA’ means any rules, regulations, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UNCLOS, which are from time to time in force, including binding decisions of any organ of the ISA and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; ‘Seabed Mineral Activities’ means operations for the Exploration or Exploitation of Seabed Minerals within the Area under an ISA Contract under the Republic’s sponsorship under this Act; ‘Seabed Minerals’ means hard mineral resources, consisting of any deposit or accretion, on or just below the surface of the deep seabed in the Area, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain metalliferous elements; ‘Security Deposit’ means any insurance, bank guarantee, trust fund, cash, or other form of financial security acceptable to the Authority that a Sponsored Party may be required to provide as a guarantee under Section 52 of the Act and as a condition of sponsorship; ‘Sponsored Party’ means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued under Part 3 of this Act, that person’s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; ‘Sponsorship Agreement’ means an agreement entered into between the Republic and a Sponsored Party pursuant to Section 25 of this Act; ‘Sponsorship Applicant’ means a person applying for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Application’ means an Application made by a person for a Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; ‘Sponsorship Certificate’ means a certificate validly issued by the Republic under Part 3 of this Act; ‘Sponsoring State’ means a State Party to the UNCLOS, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Exploitation in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UNCLOS; ‘State Party’ means a State which has consented to be bound by the UNCLOS; ‘UNCLOS‘ means the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, the 1994 Agreement and its Annexes; and s5 ‘1994 Agreement’ means the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS, and any of its Annexes. (2) In interpreting any word, phrase or provisions of this Act, the intent and purpose of such provision shall be derived from the objective of this Act and the meaning used in UNCLOS and in the Rules of the ISA.
• Seabed Minerals Act 2014 (Tonga, 2020 Rev. Ed.): Section 2. Interpretation (1) For the purpose of this Act the following words shall have the following meanings – “Ancillary Operations” means any activity carried on by or on behalf of a Title Holder under this Act in support of Seabed Mineral Activities (including travel between port and the Title Area, the establishment and operation of sampling or collecting systems and equipment, platforms, installations, processing facilities, transportation systems and other plant and machinery); “Applicant” means a person applying for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Application” means an application made by a person to the Authority for a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; 2020 Revised Edition Page 7 “The Area” means the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction as defined under Article 1(1) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Authority” means the Tonga Seabed Minerals Authority established under section 9 of this Act; “Continental Shelf” means the Kingdom‘s seabed and subsoil as defined under Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Contract Area” means any part of the Area in respect of which there is in force a contract between a Sponsored Party and the ISA for the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities; “EIA Act” means the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 or any Act replacing that Act; “Environment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- it includes all natural, physical and social resources, people and culture and the relationship that exists between these elements; “Environmental Impact Assessment” has the meaning provided in the EIA Act; namely- the study and evaluation of the potential effects that a development project may have on the Environment; “Exclusive Economic Zone” means the Kingdom‘s marine area as provided for under Part V of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Exploration” means - (a) the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including by drilling, with exclusive rights; (b) the sampling and analysis of such deposits; (c) the testing of systems and equipment; (d) the carrying out of studies; and (e) for the purpose of investigating whether those minerals can be commercially exploited; An “Incident” occurs when - (a) any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations is lost, abandoned, capsized or incurs significant damage; (b) loss of life or injury requiring hospitalisation occurs on board any ship or installation while engaged in Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations, except in the case of a loss of life that is certified by an independent medical practitioner as being the result of natural causes; (c) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; (d) the conduct of Seabed Mineral Activities or Ancillary Operations results in the pollution of the Marine Environment in breach of the Kingdom‘s obligations under international law; or Page 8 2020 Revised Edition (e) where the Seabed Mineral Activities are occurring in the Area, the ISA issues an emergency order in connection with the Seabed Mineral Activities; “Inspector” means a person appointed by the Authority as an inspector in relation to Seabed Mineral Activities under section 21(3) of this Act; “The International Seabed Authority” or “ISA” means the International Seabed Authority established by Part XI Section 4 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the organisation through which State Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea shall organise and control Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area; “Licence” means a written document that is granted under Part 6 of this Act for the purpose of conducting Exploration or Mining under this Act; “Licensed Area” means a part of the Kingdom‘s seabed in respect of which there is in force an Exploration or Mining Licence; “Licensee” means any person to whom an Exploration or Mining Licence is issued under Part 6 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Licence may lawfully have been transferred, mortgaged, leased or otherwise assigned; “Marine Environment” means the environment of the sea, and includes the physical, chemical, geological and biological and genetic components, conditions and factors which interact and determine the productivity, state, condition and quality of the marine ecosystem, the waters of the seas and oceans and the airspace above those waters, as well as the seabed and ocean floor and subsoil thereof; “Marine Reserve” has the meaning given in the Parks and Reserves Act or any Act replacing that Act; “Marine Scientific Research” means any study, research or other related scientific activity, whether fundamental or applied, intended to increase knowledge about the Marine Environment for the benefit of all mankind, and not undertaken directly for industrial or economic purposes, and not significantly altering the surface or subsurface of the deep seabed nor significantly affecting the Marine Environment; “Mining” means the recovery for commercial purposes of Seabed Minerals and the extraction of minerals therefrom, including the construction and operation of mining, processing and transportation systems, for the production and marketing of metals; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals; “Person” means any natural person or group of natural persons, or legal person or business enterprise and includes, but is not limited to a company, corporation, partnership, cooperative, or association; 2020 Revised Edition Page 9 “The Precautionary Approach” the precautionary approach, in accordance with Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, means that, in order to protect the environment, where there are threats of serious and irreversible damage to the Marine Environment or threats to human health in the Kingdom, a lack of full scientific certainty regarding the extent of adverse effects shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent or minimise environmental degradation arising in any way from a matter or person or activity regulated under this Act; “Prescribed” means prescribed by Regulations or other subordinate legislation made under this Act or other applicable Act; “Prospecting” means low impact exploration activities such as seismic surveying and other non-surface disturbing activities in the search for Seabed Mineral deposits, including estimation of the composition, size and distribution of deposits and their economic values, without any exclusive rights; “Prospecting Permit” means a written document that is granted under Part 5 of this Act for the purpose of allowing the conduct of Prospecting within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Tonga pursuant to this Act; “Prospectors” means a person to whom a Prospecting Permit is granted under Part 5 of this Act, that person‘s representatives, and any person or persons to whom the Title conferred by the Prospecting Permit may lawfully have been assigned; “Protected Area” means any area or areas within the Kingdom established as a protected area within the meaning of the Convention on Biological Diversity (opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992, entered into force on 29 December 1993, and to which Tonga acceded in 1998); “Public Official” has the meaning provided in section 2 of the Anti- Corruption Commissioner Act 2007; “Regulations” means all regulations and other subordinate legislation made under this Act; “Rules of the ISA” means any rules, regulations, guidance to contractors, or procedures adopted by the ISA pursuant to powers conferred on the ISA by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea that are from time to time in force, and any contractual terms contained in a contract between the ISA and a Sponsored Party relating to Seabed Mineral Activities; “Seabed Minerals” means the hard mineral resources of any part of the deep seabed, including those in crust, nodule or hydrothermal deposit form, which contain (in quantities greater than trace) metalliferous or non-metalliferous elements; “Seabed Mineral Activities” means - Page 10 2020 Revised Edition operations for Prospecting under Prospecting Permit, Exploration under Exploration Licence, or Mining under Mining Licence, of Seabed Minerals within the Kingdom‘s national jurisdiction; or Exploration or Mining of Seabed Minerals in the Area under the Kingdom‘s sponsorship, under this Act; “Serious Harm” means any effect that represents a significant adverse change that cannot be remedied within a reasonable timeframe; “Sponsored Party” means a person who holds a current Sponsorship Certificate validly issued by the Kingdom under Part 7 of this Act, that person‘s representatives or officers, and any person or persons to whom the Sponsorship Certificate may lawfully have been assigned; “Sponsorship Certificate” means a written document issued to another person under Part 7 of this Act by the Kingdom that validates the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of that person pursuant to this Act; “Sponsoring State” means a State Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sponsoring a person to carry out Exploration or Mining in the Area in accordance with Article 153(2)(b) of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; “Title” means the rights conferred by a Prospecting Permit, Licence, or Sponsorship Certificate under this Act; “Title Area” means the area of seabed to which a Title relates; “Title Holder” means a Prospector, Licensee or Sponsored Party; and “The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea” means the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea of 10 December 1982 entered into force on 16 November 1994, and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 – to which Tonga acceded in 1995. (2) This Act shall where possible be interpreted, and all persons performing functions and duties or exercising powers under it shall act, subject to any Act of the Kingdom to the contrary, consistently with the Kingdom‘s international obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and other relevant international instruments, and specifically the Kingdom‘s duties to - (a) protect and preserve the Marine Environment and rare or fragile ecosystems and habitats; (b) prevent, reduce and control pollution from seabed activities, or caused by ships or by dumping of waste and other matter at sea; (c) prevent trans-boundary harm; (d) conserve biodiversity; (e) apply the Precautionary Approach; (f) employ best environmental practice; 2020 Revised Edition Page 11 (g) conduct prior Environmental Impact Assessment of activities likely to cause Serious Harm to the Marine Environment; and (h) take measures for ensuring safety at sea. (3) In particular, in determining whether to grant a Prospecting Permit, Licence or Sponsorship Certificate, setting the terms of that Title, taking steps to monitor or to enforce those terms, the Authority shall have regard at all times to the duties listed in sub-section (2) as well as the importance of the Kingdom‘s sustainable economic development; and the Authority shall consider any representations made to it concerning such matters.; Section 91. Payments by Prospectors, Licensees and Sponsored Parties (1) Application fee An Applicant for a Title under this Act shall upon Application pay to the Authority the prescribed fee, which shall be non-recoverable. (2) Sponsorship payments The holder of a Sponsorship Certificate shall pay to the Authority - (a) such sums by way of annual administrative fees for the Kingdom‘s sponsorship of its Seabed Mineral Activities in the Area, and (b) where the Sponsorship Certificate pertains to a contract for Mining in the Area, such sums by way of a commercial recovery payment, at such times and in such amounts as may be prescribed, or provided in the Sponsorship Certificate or a Sponsorship agreement made under this Act. (3) Taxes Licensees, and their sub-contractors, advisors, and employees shall pay all applicable customs duties and taxes in accordance with the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Page 52 2020 Revised Edition (4) Seabed Minerals royalties The holder of a Mining Licence shall pay such sums by way of royalties for the extraction of the Kingdom‘s Seabed Minerals and at such times as may be specified under the relevant applicable laws of the Kingdom. Each payment shall be accompanied by details of the Seabed Minerals produced, sold or disposed of, and the details of the payment and how it has been calculated.
• 15 CFR 970 — DSM Exploration Licences (NOAA): Section 970.100. Purpose.; Section 970.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term:; Section 970.102. Nature of licenses.; Section 970.103. Prohibited activities and restrictions.; Section 970.200. General.; Section 970.201. Statement of financial resources.; Section 970.202. Statement of technological experience and capabilities.; Section 970.203. Exploration plan.; Section 970.204. Environmental and use conflict analysis.; Section 970.207. Antitrust information.; Section 970.208. Fee.; Section 970.209. Substantial compliance with application requirements.; Section 970.210. Reasonable time for full compliance. Priority of right shall not be lost in case of any application filed which is in substantial but not full compliance, as specified in § 970.209, if the Administrator determines that the applicant, within 60 days after issuance to the applicant by the Administrator of written notice that the application is in substantial but not full compliance, has brought the application into full compliance with the requirements, as applicable, of §§ 970.201 through 970.208 or § 971.214(d) of this chapter. [91 FR 2672, Jan. 21, 2026]; Section 970.211. Consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies.; Section 970.209. , for purposes of establishing priority of right. However, pursuant to section 103(e) of the Act,. NOAA will cooperate with such agencies and with the applicant with the goal of resolving the concerns raised and satisfying the statutory responsibilities of these agencies. [46 FR 45898, Sept. 15, 1981, as amended at 47 FR 11513, Mar. 17, 1982]; Section 970.212. Public notice, hearing and comment.; Section 970.213. Amendment to an application. After an application has been submitted to the Administrator, but before a determination is made on the issuance or transfer of a license, the applicant must submit an amendment to the application if required by a significant change in the circumstances represented in the original application and affecting the requirements of this subpart. Applicants should consult with NOAA to determine if changes in circumstances are sufficiently significant to require submission of an amendment. The application, as amended, would then serve as the basis for determinations by the Administrator under this part. For each amendment judged by the Administrator to be significant, he will provide a copy of such amendment to each other Federal agency and department which received a copy of the original application, and also will provide for public notice, hearing and comment on the amendment pursuant to § 970.212. Such amendment, however, will not affect the priority of right established by the filing of the original application. After the issuance of or transfer of a license, any revision by the licensee will be made pursuant to § 970.513.; Section 970.300. Purposes and definitions.; Section 970.301. Requirements for applications based on pre-enactment exploration.; Section 970.302. Procedures and criteria for resolving conflicts.; Section 970.303. Procedures for new entrants.; Section 970.304. Action on portions of applications or amendments not in conflict. If an applicant so requests, the Administrator will proceed in accordance with this part to review that portion of an area included in an application or amendment that is not involved in a conflict. However, the Administrator will proceed with such review only if the applicant advises the Administrator in writing that the applicant will continue to seek a license for the proposed exploration activities in the portion of the application area that is not in conflict. To the extent practicable, the deadlines for certification of an application or amendment and issuance of a license provided in §§ 970.400 and 970.500, respectively, will run from the date of filing of the original application.; Section 970.400. General.; Section 970.401. Financial responsibility.; Section 970.402. Technological capability.; Section 970.403. Previous license and permit obligations. In order to certify an application, the Administrator must find that the applicant has satisfactorily fulfilled all past obligations under any license or permit previously issued or transferred to the applicant under the Act.; Section 970.404. Adequate exploration plan. Before he may certify an application, the Administrator must find that the proposed exploration plan of the applicant meets the requirements of § 970.203.; Section 970.405. Appropriate exploration site size and location. Before the Administrator may certify an application, he must approve the size and location of the exploration area selected by the applicant. The Administrator will approve the size and location of the area unless he determines that the area is not a logical mining unit pursuant to § 970.601.; Section 970.406. Fee payment. Before the Administrator may certify an application, he must find that the applicant has paid the license fee as specified in § 970.208.; Section 970.407. Denial of certification.; Section 970.408. Notice of certification. Upon making a final determination to certify an application for an exploration license, the Administrator will promptly send written notice of his determination to the applicant.; Section 970.500. General.; Section 970.501. Proposal to issue or transfer and of terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 970.502. Consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies. Prior to the issuance or transfer of an exploration license, the Administrator will continue the consultation and cooperation with other Federal agencies which were initiated pursuant to § 970.211. This consultation will be to assure compliance with, among other statutes, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended, and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act. He also will consult, prior to any issuance, transfer, modification or renewal of a license, with any affected Regional Fishery Management Council established pursuant to section 302 of the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 1852) if the activities undertaken pursuant to such license could adversely affect any fishery within the Fishery Conservation Zone, or any anadromous species or Continental Shelf fishery resource subject to the exclusive management authority of the United States beyond such zone.; Section 970.503. Freedom of the high seas.; Section 970.504. International obligations of the United States. Before issuing or transferring an exploration license, the Administrator must find that the exploration proposed in the application will not conflict with any international obligation of the United States established by any treaty or international convention in force with respect to the United States.; Section 970.505. Breach of international peace and security involving armed conflict. Before issuing or transferring an exploration license, the Administrator must find that the exploration proposed in the application will not create a situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international peace and security involving armed conflict.; Section 970.506. Environmental effects. Before issuing or transferring an exploration license, the Administrator must find that the exploration proposed in the application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse effect on the quality of the environment, taking into account the analyses and information in any applicable EIS prepared pursuant to section 109(c) or 109(d) of the Act. This finding also will be based upon the considerations and approach in § 970.701.; Section 970.507. Safety at sea. Before issuing or transferring an exploration license, the Administrator must find that the exploration proposed in the application will not pose an inordinate threat to the safety of life and property at sea. This finding will be based on the requirements reflected in §§ 970.205 and 970.801.; Section 970.508. Denial of issuance or transfer.; Section 970.509. Notice of issuance or transfer. If the Administrator finds that the requirements of this part have been met, he will issue or transfer the license along with the appropriate terms, conditions and restrictions. Notification thereof will be made in writing to the applicant and in the FEDERAL REGISTER.; Section 970.510. Objections to terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 970.511. Suspension or modification of activities; suspension or revocation of licenses.; Section 970.512. Modification of terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 970.513. Revision of a license.; Section 970.514. Scale requiring application procedures.; Section 970.515. Duration of a license.; Section 970.516. Approval of license transfers.; Section 970.517. Diligence requirements. The terms, conditions and restrictions in each exploration license must include provisions to assure diligent development. The Administrator will establish these pursuant to § 970.602.; Section 970.518. Environmental protection requirements.; Section 970.519. Resource conservation requirements. For the purpose of conservation of natural resources, each license issued under this part will contain, as needed, terms, conditions and restrictions which have due regard for the prevention of waste and the future opportunity for the commercial recovery of the unrecovered balance of the hard mineral resources in the license area. The Administrator will establish these pursuant to § 970.603.; Section 970.520. Freedom of the high seas requirements. Each license issued under this part must include such restrictions as may be necessary and appropriate to ensure that the exploration activities do not unreasonably interfere with the interests of other nations in their exercise of the freedoms of the high seas, as recognized under general principles of international law, such as fishing, navigation, submarine pipeline and cable laying, and scientific research. The Administrator will consider the provisions in § 970.503 in establishing these restrictions.; Section 970.521. Safety at sea requirements. The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in consultation with the Administrator, will require in any license issued under this part, in conformity with principles of international law, that vessels documented under the laws of the United States and used in activities authorized under the license comply with conditions regarding the design, construction, alteration, repair, equipment, operation, manning and maintenance relating to vessel and crew safety and the promotion of safety of life and property at sea. These requirements will be established with reference to subpart H of this part.; Section 970.522. Monitoring requirements. Each exploration license must require the licensee:; Section 970.523. Special terms, conditions, and restrictions. Although the general criteria and standards to be used in establishing terms, conditions, and restrictions for a license are set forth in this part, as referenced in §§ 970.517 through 970.522, the Administrator may impose special terms, conditions, and restrictions for the conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment, or the safety of life and property at sea when required by differing physical and environmental conditions.; Section 970.524. Other Federal requirements. Pursuant to § 970.211, another Federal agency, upon review of an exploration license application submitted under this part, may indicate how terms, conditions, and restrictions might be added to the license, to assure compliance with any law or regulation within that agency's area of responsibility. In response to the intent, reflected in section 103(e) of the Act, to reduce the number of separate actions to satisfy the statutory responsibilities of these agencies, the Administrator may include such terms, conditions, and restrictions in a license.; Section 970.600. General. Several provisions in the Act relate to appropriate mining techniques or mining efficiency. These raise what could be characterized as resource development issues. In particular, under section 103(a)(2)(D) of the Act, the applicant will select the size and location of the area of an exploration plan, which will be approved unless the Administrator finds that the area is not a “logical mining unit.” Also, pursuant to section 108 of the Act the applicant's exploration plan and the terms, conditions and restrictions of each license must be designed to ensure diligent development. In addition, for the purpose of conservation of natural resources, section 110 of the Act provides that each license is to contain, but only as needed, terms, conditions, and restrictions which have due regard for the prevention of waste and the future opportunity for the commercial recovery of the unrecovered balance of the resources.; Section 970.601. Logical mining unit.; Section 970.602. Diligent exploration.; Section 970.603. Conservation of resources.; Section 970.700. General. Congress, in authorizing the exploration for hard mineral resources under the Act, also enacted provisions relating to the protection of the marine environment from the effects of exploration activities. For example, before the Administrator may issue a license, pursuant to section 105(a)(4) of the Act he must find that the exploration proposed in an application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse effect on the quality of the environment. Also, the Act requires in section 109(b) that each license issued by the Administrator must contain such terms, conditions and restrictions which prescribe the actions the licensee must take in the conduct of exploration activities to assure protection of the environment. Furthermore, the Act in section 105(c)(1)(B) provides for the modification by the Administrator of any term, condition or restriction if relevant data and other information indicates that modification is required to protect the quality of the environment. In addition, section 114 of the Act specifies that each license issued under the Act must require the licensee to monitor the environmental effects of the exploration activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator, and to submit such information as the Administrator finds to be necessary and appropriate to assess environmental impacts and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse environmental effects.; Section 970.701. Significant adverse environmental effects.; Section 970.702. Monitoring and mitigation of environmental effects.; Section 970.800. General. The Act contains requirements, in the context of several decisions, that relate to assuring the safety of life and property at sea. For instance, before the Administrator may issue a license, section 105(a)(5) of the Act requires that he find that the proposed exploration will not pose an inordinate threat to the safety of life and property at sea. Also, under section 112(a) of the Act the Coast Guard, in consultation with NOAA, must require in any license or permit issued under the Act, in conformity with principles of international law, that vessels documented in the United States and used in activities authorized under the license comply with conditions regarding the design, construction, alteration, repair, equipment, operation, manning and maintenance relating to vessel and crew safety and the safety of life and property at sea. In addition, under section 105(c)(1)(B) of the Act, the Administrator may modify terms, conditions and restrictions for a license if required to promote the safety of life and property at sea. [46 FR 45909, Sept. 15, 1981]; Section 970.900. Other applicable regulations. The regulations in subparts H, I and J of 15 CFR part 971 are consolidated regulations and are applicable both to licenses under this part and to permits under 15 CFR part 971. The regulations in subparts H, I and J of part 971 govern records to be maintained and information to be submitted by licensees and permittees, public disclosure of documents received by NOAA, relinquishment and surrender of licenses and permits, amendment of regulations, competition of time, uniform hearing procedures, and enforcement under the Act. [54 FR 548, Jan. 6, 1989] Subparts J-W [Reserved]; Section 970.2402. Notice of pre-enactment exploration.; Section 970.2501. Notice of pre-license exploration voyages.; Section 970.2502. Post voyage report. Within 30 days of the conclusion of each exploration voyage, the United States citizen engaging in the voyage shall submit to NOAA a report containing any environmental data or information obtained during that voyage.; Section 970.2503. Suspension of exploration activities.; Section 970.2601. Additional information. Any United States citizen filing notice under § 970.2402 or § 970.2501 of this part shall provide such additional information as the Administrator may require as necessary and appropriate to implement section 101 of the Act. [45 FR 76662, Nov. 20, 1980]
• 15 CFR 971 — DSM Commercial Recovery Permits (NOAA): Section 971.100. Purpose. The purpose of this part is to implement the responsibilities and authorities of the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) pursuant to Public Law 96-283, the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (the Act), to issue to eligible United States citizens permits for the commercial recovery of deep seabed hard minerals.; Section 971.101. Definitions. For purposes of this part, the term; Section 971.102. Nature of permits.; Section 971.103. Prohibited activities and restrictions.; Section 971.200. General.; Section 971.201. Statement of financial resources.; Section 971.202. Statement of technological experience and capabilities.; Section 971.203. Commercial recovery plan.; Section 971.204. Environmental and use conflict analysis.; Section 971.205. Vessel safety and documentation. In order to provide a basis for the necessary determinations with respect to the safety of life and property at sea, pursuant to § 971.407, § 971.422 and Subpart G of this part, the application must contain the following information for vessels used in commercial recovery, except for those vessels under 300 gross tons which are engaged in oceanographic research:; Section 971.206. Statement of ownership.; Section 971.208. Fee.; Section 971.209. Processing outside the United States.; Section 971.210. Determination whether application is complete for further processing. Upon receipt of an application, the Administrator will review it to determine whether it includes information specifically identifiable with and fully responsive to each requirement in § 971.201 through § 971.209. The Administrator will notify the applicant whether the application is complete within 60 days after it is received. The notice will identify, if applicable, in what respects the application is not complete, and will specify the information which the applicant must submit in order to make it complete, why the additional information is necessary, and a reasonable date by which the application must be completed. Application processing will not begin until the Administrator determines that the application is complete.; Section 971.211. Consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies.; Section 971.212. Public notice, hearing and comment.; Section 971.213. Amendment to an application. After an application has been submitted to the Administrator, but before a determination is made on the issuance or transfer of a permit, the applicant must submit an amendment to the application if there is a significant change in the circumstances represented in the original application which affects the requirements of this subpart. Applicants should consult with NOAA to determine if changes in circumstances are sufficiently significant to require submission of an amendment. The application, as amended, would then serve as the basis for determinations by the Administrator under this part. For each amendment judged by the Administrator to be significant, the Administrator will provide a copy of that amendment to each other Federal agency and department which received a copy of the original application, and also will provide for public notice, hearing and comment on the amendment pursuant to § 971.212. After the issuance or transfer of a permit, any revision of the permit will be made pursuant to; Section 971.413. . Any amendment or modification which would cause coastal zone effects substantially different than. those originally reviewed by the state agency would be subject to Federal consistency review as prescribed in 15 CFR part 930.; Section 971.214. Consolidated license and permit procedures.; Section 971.211. and determining in writing that:.; Section 971.300. General.; Section 971.301. Required findings. Before the Administrator may certify an application for a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator must:; Section 971.302. Denial of certification.; Section 971.303. Notice of certification. Upon making a final determination to certify an application for a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator will promptly send written notice of the determination to the applicant.; Section 971.400. General.; Section 971.401. Proposal to issue or transfer and proposed terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 971.402. Consultation and cooperation with Federal and State agencies. Before issuance or transfer of a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator will conclude any consultations in cooperation with other Federal and State agencies which were initiated pursuant to §§ 971.211 and 971.200(g). These consultations will be held to assure compliance with, as applicable and among other statutes, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, and the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended. The Administrator also will consult, before any issuance, transfer, modification or renewal of a permit, with any affected Regional Fishery Management Council established pursuant to section 302 of the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 1852) if the activities undertaken pursuant to the permit could adversely affect any fishery within the Fishery Conservation Zone (now known as the Exclusive Economic Zone), or any anadromous species or Continental Shelf fishery resource subject to the exclusive management authority of the United States beyond that zone.; Section 971.403. Freedom of the high seas.; Section 971.404. International obligations of the United States. Before issuing or transferring a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator must find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application will not conflict with any international obligation of the United States established by any treaty or international convention in force with respect to the United States.; Section 971.405. Breach of international peace and security involving armed conflict. Before issuing or transferring a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator must find that the recovery proposed in the application will not create a situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international peace and security involving armed conflict.; Section 971.406. Environmental effects. Before issuing or transferring a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator must find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse environmental effect, taking into account the analyses and information in any applicable EIS and any TCRs associated with the permit. This finding also will be based upon the requirements in subpart F. However, as also noted in subpart F, if a determination on this question cannot be made on the basis of available information, and it is found that irreparable harm will not occur during a period when an approved monitoring program is undertaken to further examine the significant adverse environmental effect issue, a permit may be granted, subject to modification or suspension and, if necessary and appropriate, revocation pursuant to § 971.417(a), or subject to emergency suspension pursuant to; Section 971.407. Safety at sea. Before issuing or transferring a commercial recovery permit, the Administrator shall find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application shall not pose an inordinate threat to the safety of life and property at sea. This finding shall be based on the requirements in § 971.205, or as applicable, § 971.214(d)(7), and subpart G of this part. [91 FR 2676, Jan. 21, 2026]; Section 971.408. Processing outside the United States.; Section 971.409. Denial of issuance or transfer.; Section 971.410. Notice of issuance or transfer. If the Administrator finds that the requirements of this subpart have been met, he will issue or transfer the permit along with the appropriate TCRs. Notice of issuance or transfer will be made in writing to the applicant and published in the FEDERAL REGISTER.; Section 971.411. Objections to terms, conditions and restrictions.; Section 971.412. Changes in permits and permit terms, conditions, and restrictions.; Section 971.214. (e);.; Section 971.413. Revision of a permit.; Section 971.414. Modification of permit terms, conditions, and restrictions.; Section 971.415. Duration of a permit.; Section 971.416. Approval of permit transfers.; Section 971.417. Suspension or modification of activities; suspension or revocation of permits.; Section 971.418. Diligence requirements. The TCRs in each commercial recovery permit must include provisions to assure diligent development consistent with § 971.503, including a requirement that recovery at commercial scale be underway within ten years from the date of permit issuance unless that deadline is extended by the Administrator for good cause.; Section 971.419. Environmental protection requirements.; Section 971.420. Resource conservation requirements. For the purpose of conservation of natural resources, each permit issued under this part will contain, as needed, TCRs which have due regard for the prevention of waste and the future opportunity for the commercial recovery of the unrecovered balance of the hard mineral resources in the recovery area. The Administrator will establish these requirements pursuant to § 971.502.; Section 971.421. Freedom of the high seas requirements. Each permit issued under this part must include appropriate restrictions to ensure that commercial recovery activities do not unreasonably interfere with the interests of other nations in their exercise of the freedoms of the high seas, as recognized under general principles of international law. The Administrator will consider the factors in; Section 971.422. Safety at sea requirements. The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in consultation with the Administrator, will require in any permit issued under this part, in conformity with principles of international law, that vessels documented under the laws of the United States and used in activities authorized under the permit comply with conditions regarding design, construction, alteration, repair, equipment, operation, manning and maintenance relating to vessel and crew safety and the promotion of safety of life and property at sea. These requirements will be established with reference to subpart G of this part.; Section 971.423. Best available technology. The Administrator will require in all activities under new permits, and wherever practicable in activities under existing permits, the use of the best available technologies for the protection of safety, health, and the environment wherever such activities would have a significant adverse effect on safety, health, or the environment, (see §§ 971.203(b)(3), 971.602(f), and 971.604(a)), except where the Administrator determines that the incremental benefits are clearly insufficient to justify the incremental costs of using such technologies.; Section 971.424. Monitoring requirements. Each commercial recovery permit will require the permittee:; Section 971.425. Changes of circumstances. Each permit must require the permittee to advise the Administrator of any changes of circumstances which might constitute a revision which would be a major change under § 971.412(c). Changes in ownership, financing, and use conflicts are examples, as are technology or methodology changes including those which might result in significant adverse environmental effects.; Section 971.426. Annual report and records maintenance. Each permit will require the permittee to submit an annual report and maintain information in accordance with § 971.801 including compliance with the commercial recovery plan and the quantities of hard mineral resources recovered and the disposition of such resources.; Section 971.427. Processing outside the United States. If appropriate TCRs will incorporate provisions to implement the decision of the Administrator regarding the return of resources processed outside the United States, in accordance with § 971.408.; Section 971.429. Special terms, conditions and restrictions. Although the general criteria and standards to be used in establishing TCRs for a permit are set forth in this part, as referenced in §§ 971.418 through 971.428, the Administrator may impose special TCRs for the conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment, or the safety of life and property at sea when required by differing physical and environmental conditions.; Section 971.430. Other Federal requirements. Pursuant to § 971.211, another Federal agency, or a State acting under Federal authority, upon review of a commercial recovery permit application submitted under this part, may propose that certain TCRs be added to the permit, to assure compliance with any law or regulation within that agency's area of responsibility. The Administrator will include appropriate TCRs in a permit.; Section 971.500. General. Several provisions in the Act relate to appropriate mining techniques or mining efficiency. These raise what could be characterized as resource development issues. In particular, section 103(a)(2)(C) requires a resource assessment to be provided with the recovery plan. Section 103(a)(2)(D) of the Act provides that the applicant will select the size and location of the area of a recovery plan, which will be approved unless the Administrator finds that the area is not a “logical mining unit” or the commercial recovery activities in the proposed site would result in a significant adverse environmental effect which cannot be avoided by the imposition of reasonable restrictions. Also, pursuant to section 108 of the Act, the applicant's recovery plan and the TCRs of each permit must be designed to ensure diligent development. In addition, for the purpose of conservation of natural resources, section 110 of the Act provides that each permit is to contain, as needed, terms, conditions, and restrictions which have due regard for the prevention of waste and the future opportunity for the commercial recovery of the unrecovered balance of the resources.; Section 971.501. Resource assessment, recovery plan, and logical mining unit.; Section 971.502. Conservation of resources.; Section 971.503. Diligent commercial recovery.; Section 971.600. General. The Act contains several provisions which relate to environmental protection. For example, section 105(a)(4) requires that, before the Administrator may issue a commercial recovery permit, he must find that the commercial recovery proposed in the application cannot reasonably be expected to result in a significant adverse environmental effect. In addition, each permit issued must contain TCRs which prescribe actions the permittee must take in the conduct of commercial recovery activities to assure protection of the environment (section 109(b)). The Act also provides for modification by the Administrator of any TCR if relevant data and information indicate that modification is required to protect the quality of the environment (section 105(c)(1)(B)). The Administrator also may order an immediate suspension or modification of activities (section 106(c)), or require use of best available technologies (section 109(b)), to prevent a significant adverse environmental effect. Furthermore, each permit issued under the Act must require the permittee to monitor the environmental effects of commercial recovery activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator, and to submit information the Administrator finds necessary and appropriate to assess environmental effects and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse effects (section 114).; Section 971.601. Environmental requirements. Before issuing a permit for the commercial recovery of deep seabed hard mineral resources, the Administrator must find that:; Section 971.602. Significant adverse environmental effects.; Section 971.603. At-sea monitoring.; Section 971.604. Best available technologies (BAT) and mitigation.; Section 971.606. Onshore information.; Section 971.700. General. The Act contains several requirements that relate to assuring the safety of life and property at sea. For example, before the Administrator may issue a permit, he must find that the proposed recovery will not pose an inordinate threat to the safety of life and property at sea (section 105(a)(5)). The Coast Guard, in consultation with NOAA, must require in any permit issued under the Act, in conformity with principles of international law, that vessels documented in the United States and used in activities authorized under the permit comply with conditions regarding the design, construction, alteration, repair, equipment, operation, manning and maintenance relating to vessel and crew safety and the safety of life and property at sea (section 112(a)). The Administrator may impose or modify TCRs for a permit if required to promote the safety of life and property at sea (section 105(c)(1)(B)).; Section 971.800. General. The subpart contains miscellaneous provisions pursuant to the Act which are applicable to exploration licenses and commercial recovery permits.; Section 971.801. Records to be maintained and information to be submitted by licensees and. permittees. (a); Section 971.802. Public disclosure of documents received by NOAA.; Section 971.803. Relinquishment and surrender of licenses and permits.; Section 971.804. Amendment to regulations for conservation, protection of the environment, and. safety of life and property at sea. The Administrator may amend the regulations in this part and 15 CFR part 970 at any time as the Administrator determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to provide for the conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment, or the safety of life and property at sea. The amended regulations will apply to all exploration or commercial recovery activities conducted under any license or permit issued or maintained pursuant to this part or 15 CFR part 970, except that amended regulations which provide for conservation of natural resources will apply to activities conducted under an existing license or permit during the present term of that license or permit only if the Administrator determines that the amended regulations providing for conservation of natural resources will not impose serious or irreparable economic hardship on the licensee or permittee. Any amendment to regulations under this section will be made pursuant to the procedures in subpart I of this part.; Section 971.805. Computation of time. Except where otherwise specified, Saturdays, Sundays and Federal Government holidays will be included in computing the time period allowed for filing any document or paper under this part or 15 CFR part 970, but when a time period expires on any of these days, that time period will be extended to include the next following Federal Government work day. Filing periods expire at the close of business on the day specified, for the office specified.; Section 971.900. Applicability. The regulations of this subpart govern the following hearings conducted by NOAA under this part and under 15 CFR part 970:; Section 971.901. Formal hearing procedures.; Section 971.1000. General.; Section 971.901. (i) also applies to any action or event, such as payment of a civil penalty, required by this. subpart to take place within a specified period of time.; Section 971.1001. Assessment procedure.; Section 971.1002. Hearing and appeal procedures.; Section 971.1003. License and permit sanctions.; Section 971.1004. Remission or mitigation of forfeitures.; Section 971.1005. Observers.; Section 971.1006. Proprietary enforcement information.; Section 971.1007. Advance notice of civil actions.
• US Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA): Section 1401. Congressional findings and declaration of purpose.; Section 1402. International objectives.; Section 1403. Definitions.; Section 1411. Prohibited activities by United States citizens.; Section 1412. Licenses for exploration and permits for commercial recovery.; Section 1413. License and permit applications, review, and certification.; Section 1414. License and permit fees.; Section 1415. License and permit terms, conditions, and restrictions; issuance and transfer of licenses and permits.; Section 1416. Denial of certification of applications and of issuance, transfer, suspension, and revocation of licenses and permits; suspension and modification of activities.; Section 1417. Duration of licenses and permits.; Section 1418. Diligence requirements.; Section 1419. Protection of the environment.; Section 1420. Conservation of natural resources.; Section 1421. Prevention of interference with other uses of the high seas.; Section 1422. Safety of life and property at sea.; Section 1423. Records, audits, and public disclosure.; Section 1424. Monitoring of activities of licensees and permittees.; Section 1425. Relinquishment, surrender, and transfer of licenses and permits.; Section 1426. Public notice and hearings.; Section 1427. Civil actions.; Section 1428. Reciprocating states.; Section 1441. Declaration of Congressional intent.; Section 1442. Effect of international agreement.; Section 1443. Protection of interim investments.; Section 1444. Disclaimer of obligation to pay compensation.; Section 1461. Prohibited acts.; Section 1462. Civil penalties.; Section 1464. Enforcement.; Section 1466. Civil forfeitures.; Section 1468. Regulations.; Section 1470. Authorization of appropriations.