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Government says its ongoing reform of mining policies will need the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in the sector to achieve the targetted, strategic national vision. �It is through a deepened partnership of stakeholders that the industry can achieve the six priority areas of poverty reduction, revenue management, local content, regional development planning, social investment, and dispute resolution,� Mike Hammah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, said. The government in its 2012 budget statement increased the corporate tax rate for mining companies from 25 to 35 percent, introduced an additional windfall tax of 10 percent, and established a uniform regime for capital allowance of 20 percent that is deducted over five years. Early this year, it commissioned a seven-member team of negotiators to begin a review of mineral agreements and to redesign draft agreements to ensure that they yield maximum social and economic returns to the country. Government is as well developing a new mining policy to guide its management of the mining and minerals sector, and it is expected to be ready by close of the year. �Government�s viewpoint alone will not bring about the desired development of the mining industry. To ensure a win-win situation for both investors and government, there should be continuous dialogue between industry operators and the state,� Mr. Hammah told delegates at the three-day West Africa Mining and Power Exhibition and Conference (WAMPEX/WAMPOC) in Accra. Mr. Hammah indicated that partnerships between companies, governments, development agencies and civil society could help fill capacity and governance gaps where necessary, and expand the overall socio-economic contribution of mining and metal investments. �Partnerships with government, communities, civil society groups and academia could help advance the development of the industry. It will help confront local and global challenges such as illegal mining, economic recession, and accelerate progress towards agreed goals.�