Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-2016

Abstract

From 2002 to 2013, resource-rich countries in Africa enjoyed the benefits of a commodity boom, using increased revenues to embark on major infrastructure projects in roads, rail, ports, and housing. But when commodity prices fell starting in 2011 (see figure below), public sector revenues took a major hit with private sector companies scaling back operations, delaying investment decisions and suspending unprofitable operations. Especially as the number and size of investments in the sector contracted, Governments felt increased pressure to collect, manage and spend those revenues more efficiently. As a result, the fall in commodity prices and mounting economic pressure actually led to opportunities to improve governance of the extractives sector. The result in a number of resource-rich countries has been efforts to improve laws and increase focus on implementing existing laws. There is evidence of some success in reducing corruption in the sector.

Disciplines

Contracts | International Law | Law | Natural Resources Law | Oil, Gas, and Mineral Law | Securities Law | Transnational Law

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