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.
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.
Peru’s Vice Minister of Mines, Henry John Luna, has resigned amid controversy over reforms to the mining formalization process, including the repeal of the “hereditary Reinfo.” The government argues the changes aim to reinforce state control and ensure regulatory clarity in the sector.
In response to global supply risks, the European Union has launched an ambitious plan to mine, process, and recycle its own critical raw materials — but can it balance independence with sustainability?
Spain is open to extending the life of the Almaraz nuclear plant, with negotiations centered on a short-term timeline and fiscal relief for energy firms.
Italy strengthens its strategic energy partnership with Kazakhstan through trade, renewables, and critical mineral cooperation, with over $19.9 billion in bilateral trade in 2024 alone.
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.
Chile’s National Lithium Strategy is facing criticism from environmentalists and local leaders who say it prioritizes extraction over protection. Experts warn of fragile ecosystems, missing impact assessments, and lack of Indigenous consultation.
President Boric called Chile’s National Lithium Strategy a historic milestone, positioning Codelco to lead lithium production in the Salar de Atacama.
As Earth’s mineral reserves dwindle, governments and private companies are turning to asteroids and the Moon in search of rare earths, platinum, and water. Space mining could revolutionize resource extraction—but not without technical, legal, and environmental challenges.