Argentina and Chile activate binational mining protocols

Argentina and Chile have activated protocols to operate three binational mining projects located along the border between San Juan province and the Atacama Region. The approved Specific Additional Protocols (PAE) reactivate a 1997 treaty to facilitate the development of the Vicuña, Nexo Andino, and Filo Sur projects. These copper-related developments represent a combined portfolio exceeding USD 20.7 billion.

In a broader regional move, representatives from Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, and Peru met in Santiago to sign a joint declaration aimed at unifying efforts to exploit strategic minerals. The bloc seeks to position itself as a competitive and sustainable global supplier of copper, lithium, and rare earth elements, which are essential for the energy transition, electromobility, and artificial intelligence.

The regional agreement emphasizes technical cooperation and the implementation of stricter filters for foreign investment. The participating nations intend to attract responsible investors while avoiding speculative actors that could delay the development of critical infrastructure.