emphasized the importance of using seawater in Peruvian mining operations during his presentation, "Mining in Peru: A New Vision," at the Peru Day event on Monday.
Montero Cornejo specified that four mining companies operating in Ica and Piura regions currently use seawater in their operations. Additionally, three major projects —Los Calatos (Moquegua), Tia Maria, and Pampa de Pongo (Arequipa)— have planned to use seawater as an alternative source for their operations before 2030.
He considered this alternative a means to address local communities, defense fronts, rural (farming) patrols, political leaders, regional authorities, and civil organizations, demonstrating that sustainable water resource use is possible, allowing mining to coexist with other productive activities.
The minister stressed the importance of investing in seawater utilization and desalination to remove water-related concerns from negotiations and counter slogans such as "Water yes, gold no," used by mining opponents to block consensus-building for new projects.
At another point in his presentation, Montero referred to tailings management using innovative technologies aimed at reducing costs.
"Some tailings can be reused. At the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem), we are working on this —there are 300 tailings deposits that likely still hold economic potential, such as in Quiulacocha, Cerro de Pasco," he emphasized.
Montero addressed the revival of Peru's metallurgical industry due to the diversity of strategic minerals present in polymetallic and copper concentrates.
He recalled that La Oroya Metallurgical Complex produced over 32 metals and byproducts, which are essential for the industries of the future.
The minister referred to progress on the Small-Scale and Artisanal Mining Law (MAPE Law), noting that adjustments are needed, along with incentives for miners undergoing formalization, such as financial inclusion, technical assistance, and gold traceability.
Regarding his sector's 2025 outlook, Montero indicated that an agreement with the World Bank aims to complete the Digital One-Stop Window, among other projects.
Likewise, he announced efforts to advance the National Mining Policy through 2050.
Regarding mining exploration projects portfolio, Montero stated that 84 ventures are listed for 2025, with an investment of US$1.039 billion.
"Exploration in Peru is rising like never before," he emphasized.
Before concluding, Minister Montero invited Peruvian mining entrepreneurs and suppliers to join a delegation traveling to Mongolia from September 11 to 15.
"I committed to making this business visit a reality to promote Peruvian mining services. It is time for us to go global and do business," he stated.
(END) NDP/JMP/MVB