Latvia is an independent democratic republic (Article 1). The sovereign power of the State of Latvia is vested in the people of Latvia (Article 2). The State shall recognize and protect fundamental human rights in accordance with this Constitution, laws and international agreements binding upon Latvia (Article 89). Everyone has the right to know about their rights (Article 90). Everyone has the right to own property. Property shall not be used contrary to the interests of the public. Property rights may be restricted only in accordance with law.

The Act consists of 86 sections divided into 9 Parts: Administration (I); Concessions and leases (II); Licenses (III); Mining licenses on State Lands (IV); Mining partnerships (V); Prevention of theft of raw gold or silver, or of valuable minerals or precious stones (VI); Offences (VII); Procedure (VIII); Miscellaneous (IX).The Commissioner of Geological Surveys and Mines shall have charge of metals and minerals and act as guardian of such resources.

This Act defines the jurisdiction of the High Court and makes provision with respect to the application of selected foreign law and customary law of Tanzania. The High Court shall be a Court of Admiralty and its jurisdiction shall extend to the territorial waters. Common law, doctrines of equity and statutes of general application of England shall be in force in Tanzania only so far as the circumstances of Tanzania and its inhabitants permit, and subject to such qualifications as local circumstances may render necessary.