Gemini to lose concession

Gemini to lose concession

JAKARTA (JP): The government is revoking PT Gemini Timber Joint Corp.'s exploitation rights over its forest concession in the Kolaka district of Southeast Sulawesi, the province's governor said.

Governor Laode Kaimuddin told a recent hearing with the provincial council that Gemini owes more than Rp 1 billion (US$428,000), mostly to the government, in unpaid taxes and unpaid reforestation fees.

Laode said the government and the provincial administration will continue pushing the company to fulfill its obligations.

"Debt is debt and it must be paid," Laode was quoted by Antara as saying.

Gemini's rights over its 23,000-hectare concession in Kolaka end next year. (rid)