Peru Extends Controversial Permit for Informal Miners Amid Industry Tensions
Peru’s Congress voted late Friday to extend the controversial Reinfo permit for six months, allowing informal mines to continue operating legally.
The decision reflects a complex battle of interests, with large business groups opposing the permit and hundreds of thousands of informal miners advocating for its continuation.
Peru is a significant global hub for copper mining, home to major operators such as Freeport-McMoRan and Southern Copper. The Reinfo permit has become a contentious issue as it seeks to regulate informal mining while addressing concerns about illegality and environmental impact.
The extension comes after informal miners staged blockades on key highways, pressing for the permit’s renewal. Without the extension, thousands of small mining operations risk falling into illegal status, potentially exacerbating tensions in the sector.
The government has indicated that it may extend the permit again for an additional six months upon its expiration, aiming to maintain order and prevent widespread disruptions.
Earlier this week, Congress dismissed Mining Minister Rómulo Mucho after his attempts to crack down on informal mining operations. This decision underscores the political sensitivity surrounding the issue and the strong influence of informal miners in shaping policy.
President Dina Boluarte has yet to appoint a replacement for Mucho and has remained silent on her stance regarding the permit extension.
Her administration now faces the dual challenge of balancing the demands of informal miners with the interests of larger mining corporations and environmental concerns.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in Peru’s mining sector, a critical component of the nation’s economy, as stakeholders await clearer direction from the government.
