Peru aims to turn copper reserves into engine for sustainable industrial development

13:17 | Lima, Sep. 17.

The Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) on Wednesday highlighted that Peru aims to turn its copper reserves into the driver of sustainable industrial development, generating higher revenues and strengthening its position in global markets for high-value products.

The General Directorate of Mining Promotion and Sustainability (DGPSM) specified that the pillars of this strategy are:

-Promotion of plants to process copper into cathodes and wire rod, key inputs for global industries.

-Development of industrial hubs in mining regions such as Arequipa, Moquegua, and Apurimac

-Implementation of environmental standards and traceability to ensure responsible copper.

-Training of local labor for specialized jobs in processing and innovation.

-Increase processing capacity through the construction and modernization of smelters and refineries.

Minem emphasized that mining operations in Peru are already incorporating advanced technologies to ensure sustainability and efficiency.

An example is the Quellaveco Project (Anglo American), which has implemented automation and remote control systems to optimize processes and reduce environmental impact.

Similarly, Peru is accelerating its energy transition with the amendment of Law No. 28832, in line with global demand for critical minerals.

According to the 2024 Mining Yearbook, Peru ranked as the country with the second-largest copper reserves in the world (100 million metric tons of fine copper), equivalent to 10.2% of the global total, only behind Chile (19.4%).

"Copper is a crucial metal for Peru’s economic growth and sustainable development, as well as a key mineral in the global energy transition, thanks to its role in electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure, and power transmission," Minem's Mining Promotion and Sustainability General Director Walter Sanchez stated.

(END) NDP/MVB

Published: 9/17/2025