on Friday announced that the 2025 Mining Investment Projects Portfolio will consist of 68 projects with a total investment of US$63 billion.
"The portfolio previously included 51 projects worth US$55 billion. Now, in 2025, we have 68 projects that have already begun administrative procedures and initial activities, totaling US$63 billion," Montero told
Andina News Agency.
"These are 68 investment projects in the mine development stage, already registered with the General Directorate of Mining and the General Directorate of Environmental and Mining Affairs of the Ministry of Energy and Mines," he added.
New projects across key mining corridors
The government official explained that the mining projects being added to the new investment portfolio are located in different areas of Peru.
"Several projects are being included, some in the northern mining corridor, which is primarily based on the geological wealth of Cajamarca (region). We have the central mining corridor, where most investments would be concentrated in Ancash (region), and the southern mining corridor, with the impressive mineral wealth of Apurimac (region)," the minister detailed.
"Many projects are being activated based on Peru’s geological heritage, which is rich and recognized worldwide. Currently, 15% of the national territory is under mining concessions for production, processing, exploitation, and exploration," Montero stated.
"This means 85% of the country is still outside the reach of mining operations. However, of that 85%, 42% consists of protected natural areas that we must care for, respect, and coexist with, leaving 43% available for mining," he explained.
Mining investment Expected to surpass US$5 billion
The Cabinet member also highlighted that mining investment in Peru nearly reached US$5 billion by the end of 2024, with projections to exceed this figure starting in 2025.
"For years, we have maintained an annual investment in mining development of approximately US$5 billion, but that is not enough. Private-sector-driven exploration will drive further investment in specific mining projects, and this US$5 billion figure is expected to increase," Montero stated.
"Peru needs US$10 billion in annual mining investments because the geological heritage and business opportunities are there. The market must respond with a bit more confidence," he concluded.
(END) CNA/JMP/MVB