Seabed Minerals Act 2017 (No. 1 of 2017).

This Act establishes a legal framework for the efficient management and development of Kiribati's Seabed Minerals. It creates a regulatory system and designates a responsible Secretariat to license, monitor and manage exploration and exploitation of Kiribati's seabed minerals. The Act also concerns sponsorship and the effective control, by Kiribati of contractors that undertake seabed mineral activities in the Area.
Seabed mineral activities within Kiribati's national jurisdiction, or under Kiribati's sponsorship in the sea bed 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("Area"), must be carried out in accordance with best international practice, and in a manner that is consistent with internationally accepted rules, standards, principles and practices, including Kiribati's responsibilities under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and specifically Kiribati's duty to protect and preserve the marine environment.
The Act also creates an advisory committee, a Register of Titles, and the Seabed Minerals Fund for the responsible sustainable management of funds raised through seabed mineral activities for the long-term benefit of the people of Kiribati. Provisions of the Environment Act 1999 apply to environmental impact assessment and other activities carried out under this Act. Activities shall not interfere with fishing. Impact on fishing shall be described in the environmental impact assessment.