Copper Projects Worth US$20 Billion Could Make Argentina a Top Producer

Written by Amir Richani for Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--Argentina could become a major copper exporter as new projects come online. The Incentive Regime for Large Investments (RIGI) will play a key role in fast-tracking developments.

The Argentine Chamber of Mining Companies (CAEM) expects about US$20 billion in investments in six major copper developments. These projects could make the South American nation one of the world's largest copper producers.

The red metal is taking the central stage in Argentina. The increase in demand for the mineral amid the transition to renewable technologies is driving the development of new assets worldwide, and Argentina is no exception.

The six projects that could attract investment are Vicuña, PSJ, Los Azules, Taca Taca, MARA and El Pachón.

Subscribers to Industrial Info's Global Market Intelligence (GMI) Metals & Minerals Project Database can read detailed reports on the Vicuna, PSJ, Los Azules, Taca Taca, MARA and El Pachón projects.

The San Juan province in Argentina's north is the leading area for copper developments.

The six abovementioned projects could add more than 1 million metric tons of copper production, which would make Argentina one of the top 10 producers worldwide.

The Incentive Regime for Large Investments in Argentina seeks to spur on the development of large projects. The RIGI includes fiscal and legal benefits for investments above the US$200 million mark.

So far, close to a dozen projects have applied for the RIGI, with a handful receiving approvals. Among those that have applied is McEwen Mining Incorporated's (Toronto, Ontario) Los Azules copper mine.

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