Peru is the world's second-largest producer of tin and the third-largest producer of copper, both of which are also considered critical minerals that play a key role in the energy transition process and the use of renewable energy sources,
"Critical minerals are key inputs in energy transition processes aimed at moving away from fossil fuels, which generate harmful environmental effects," he noted.
Quijandria made the remarks during his participation in the Symposium – 16th International Mining Meeting, organized by the SNMPE, adding that the shift is part of a push toward renewable energy sources.
The SNMPE vice chairman, who also chairs the mining sector committee, said that those negative effects include greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.
Peru holds a strategic position in the world's copper market
"The minerals that will help drive that energy transition are known as critical minerals. Copper and tin stand out among them," the SNMPE official pointed out.
Quijandria noted that, in addition to copper and tin, Peru produces 21 other critical minerals.
"Therefore, Peru is becoming part of that global agenda and ends up playing a critical role for humanity. We are aware of that. That is the debate we want to deepen," he emphasized.
Added value
The SNMPE vice chairman indicated that when discussing mining, a recurring issue is how to generate greater added value and capture a larger share of mining revenue.
"Another issue currently under discussion is how to supply humanity with the critical minerals it needs," he said.
The executive underscored that tin is a critical mineral commonly used in the soldering of digital components.
"When you open any digital device, you will find tin soldering that connects the electronic components. That can be found in every digital device," he remarked.
In that regard, Quijandria emphasized that Peru is the leading supplier of tin in the Western Hemisphere.
"China ranks first and obviously supplies the Eastern market," he said.
Practically every digital device contains tin, including mobile phones, computers, video cameras, among other products.
"That makes tin an indispensable product," Quijandria stressed.
He added that, as one of the world's leading tin producers, Peru plays an essential role in the energy transition currently underway globally.
On the other hand, Quijandria said the best way to accelerate larger investments planned for mining projects in the pipeline is to maintain legal stability.
"The country has developed a series of mining projects that have positioned us among the world's leading mineral producers. We rank second in tin, third in copper, seventh in gold, among others," he highlighted.