Argentina and France Strengthen Cooperation on Critical Minerals and Nuclear Energy During Milei’s Visit

Javier Milei and Emmanuel Macron strengthened Argentina–France cooperation on lithium and copper extraction, nuclear energy, and the Mercosur–EU trade deal during a meeting at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, despite their opposing views on climate change.

Peru Restores Nasca Lines Protected Area Amid Rising Threat from Informal Mining

Peru reinstates the 5,600 km² protected area of the Nasca Lines after criticism over reduced boundaries and rising informal gold mining activity in the region

Chile’s Mining Royalty Law to Redistribute $244 Million USD Across Regions in 2025

Chile’s new Mining Royalty Law will inject $244 million USD into regional and municipal budgets in 2025, marking the country’s largest fiscal decentralization effort since the return to democracy. Coquimbo is set to receive $17 billion pesos, with major budget increases in communes like Andacollo and Monte Patria.

Chile Aims to Become World’s Second Largest Cobalt Producer: Transforming Mining Waste into “Blue Gold”

Amid a global shift toward clean energy and advanced technologies, Chile is positioning itself as a future leader in cobalt production—transforming mining tailings into a strategic resource. With innovative bioleaching techniques and one of the largest potential reserves outside Africa, the country aims to produce up to 15,000 tonnes of cobalt annually. The Green Cobalt project not only supports sustainable mining and circular economy goals, but also promises regional development, job creation, and a new source of export revenue exceeding US$1.1 billion per year.

Argentina’s Infrastructure Gap Threatens Mining and Energy Development

With Argentina’s federal government halting new public works under President Javier Milei, oil and mining companies — backed by provincial governors — are pushing for privatized infrastructure development to sustain Vaca Muerta, lithium mining, and agriculture.