Peru Invites Japan to Strengthen Ties in Mining Industry

Written by Amir Richani for Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--Peru's President Dina Boluarte and Minister of Mines Jorge Montero visited Japan to strengthen economic ties in several areas, including mining. The trip included a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, as well as several meetings with more than 80 business leaders aimed at attracting investments.

"Japanese companies have expressed interest in Peruvian mining resources, especially copper, lithium and critical minerals that are strategic for the shift in the global energy mix from fossil fuels to renewable energy," Montero told Peruvian TV channel RPP.

Several Japanese companies already are involved in mining operations in Peru. Mitsubishi holds interests in the Antamina (10%), Quellaveco (40%) and planned Zafranal (20%) copper mines. Mitsui, another Japanese company, is involved in phosphate extraction in Bayobar.

The Antamina mine is one of the world's largest copper mines, significantly contributing to Peru's yearly volumes. Subscribers to Industrial Info's Global Market Intelligence (GMI) Metals & Minerals Plant Database can read detailed profiles of the Antamina, Quellaveco and Zafranal mines.

Between January and May this year, Peru produced 1.1 million tons of copper, about 2.8% more than during the same period of 2024, making it one of the world's top three producers.

In 2024, 7.5% of Peru's copper exports were sent to Japan. It was surpassed only by China, which accounted for 71.6% of all shipments.

Other Japanese enterprises, such as Sumitomo, Sojitz, Nippon Koei and Hitachi, already have investments in several areas in Peru, Montero told RPP.

The visit also helped to deepen cooperation on the Peru-Japan roadmap 2024-2033, signed last year, which seeks annual meetings to attract investments and promote mining collaboration between companies.

Montero told RPP that Japanese developers also have expressed interest in continuing their exploration of lithium resources in Peru. Lithium has been developed than other minerals in Peru, such as copper or gold.

Currently, Peru has approved the Quelcaya and Falchani projects for exploration in the northern part of the country. Subscribers can read detailed reports on the Quelcaya and Falchani projects.

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