#Peru #CopperMining #LasBambas #MiningProtests #MMGLtd #GlobalCopper #MiningOperations #CommunityDemands
A blockade on a critical transport route in Peru is currently impeding truck movement but has yet to affect the operations at the country’s significant copper mine, Las Bambas, owned by China’s MMG Ltd. This scenario unfolds amidst a resurgence of protests by local communities around the Las Bambas mine. These communities are seeking more substantial benefits from the copper extraction activities, given the mine’s position as a leading producer in Peru, a country recognized as one of the top global suppliers of copper.
The protests, particularly concentrated in Velille, a town in the Chumbivilcas province of Cusco, reignited over a week ago following unfruitful negotiations between the local community and mine representatives. Despite the blockade’s escalating presence, a source close to the mining operations assures there has been no immediate impact on production. However, they caution that a prolonged blockade could potentially disrupt operations, highlighting that the flow of trucks transporting minerals to export points along the so-called “mining corridor” has been halted.
To circumvent the blockade, an alternative route is currently being utilized to supply the mine with the necessary inputs for continued operation. In an effort to mitigate the situation, Las Bambas has proposed a voluntary contribution of 1.15 million soles (approximately $312,925) for the years 2024/25 to the Velille community, alongside offering technical assistance for development projects. Yet, the community has set its sights on an annual contribution of 2 million soles. This proposition remains under contention, even as similar offers have been accepted by two other communities in the regions of Cusco and Aprurimac.
Las Bambas, a key player in the global copper market and a top producer in Peru, has encountered frequent interruptions in its operations due to protests from communities near the mine, demanding a more considerable share of the benefits. Since commencing operations in 2016, the mine has experienced close to 600 days of stoppages. Despite these challenges, Las Bambas managed to produce 302,039 metric tons of copper last year, marking an increase from the 254,838 tons produced in the preceding year, thereby continuing its vital contribution to global copper supplies.
Comments are closed.