The global mining industry stands at a pivotal juncture. Mineral prices remain at historically high levels, driven by a phenomenon that is no longer a future promise but a present reality: global electrification. The expansion of renewable energy, electric mobility, advanced manufacturing, and the recovery of the construction sector is generating unprecedented demand for strategic minerals. Copper, central to this transformation, along with other critical minerals – such as lithium, silver, and zinc – has become essential to economic growth and technological development.
This scenario is unfolding against a complex global backdrop. Major economies are navigating geopolitical tensions and ongoing supply chain adjustments. Even so, Latin America is showing encouraging signs. Despite international uncertainty, the region is returning to a path of solid growth, supported by its productive capacity, abundant natural resources, and renewed investment expectations.
The Andean countries stand out prominently in this new cycle. Peru and Chile are consolidating their position as global leaders in copper, backed by a long-standing mining tradition, strong technical capabilities, and a project pipeline that continues to attract international interest. At the same time, Argentina is gaining prominence as a key destination for mining investment, particularly given its potential in lithium and other minerals critical to the energy transition. Together, these countries form an Andean axis with a genuine capacity to contribute to global mineral security.
Nevertheless, the challenge is clear: how can we meet – both quickly and sustainably – a demand for minerals that is growing faster than the development timelines of mining projects? Bringing a new mine into operation can take up to 40 years, according to a study by the Peruvian Institute of Economics. The world cannot afford to wait that long. This gap between urgency and productive reality calls for new approaches and a long-term strategic vision.
This discussion cannot, and should not, be postponed. The scale of the challenge compels us to rethink the future of mining, and international forums such as the World Mining Congress 2026 (WMC), to be held in Lima this June, take on particular significance. Beyond analysis, WMC provides a platform for action. It offers the global industry a space to engage with rigor and vision on how to address these challenges: how to produce more and better while maintaining high sustainability standards, and how to close the gap between rising demand and real supply capacity.
Our response must be built around three fundamental pillars: trust, technology, and transformation. Trust – among companies, communities, governments, and citizens – is the foundation of any project’s viability, earned through transparency, dialogue, and tangible results. Technology has become an indispensable ally in improving efficiency, optimising processes, and reducing environmental impacts. Innovation allows us to produce more with less, extend the life of operations, and move toward increasingly intelligent mining. Yet technology alone is not enough. Transformation ultimately requires changing how things are done: adopting new models, new skills, and a culture of continuous improvement.
The call to action is clear. As business leaders, public authorities, and key industry stakeholders, we must face this challenge head-on and assume our shared responsibility. Promoting more efficient mining, driven by human talent and innovation, is not an option; it is a global necessity. The future is electrifying, and mining has a decisive role to play. The time to act is now.
