Atacama mining sector receives $7.2 billion CLP investment

The Atacama Regional Government and the Chilean Undersecretariat of Mining have signed two agreements totaling more than $7.2 billion CLP to support and strengthen small-scale mining in the region. The initiatives were announced during the 5th Mining Congress in Atacama.

The first agreement allocates $751 million to assist small producers in the Huasco and Tierra Amarilla provinces who were affected by recent heavy rainfall. These funds will provide up to $5 million per project for essential needs such as fuel, machinery services, equipment, and tools.

The second agreement, valued at $6.5 billion CLP, is a comprehensive development program funded by the National Fund for Regional Development (FNDR). This 24-month program aims to benefit 480 producers across Copiapó, Huasco, and Chañaral. It focuses on technical assistance, formalization, safety, technological integration, and business development. Additionally, the plan includes the establishment of the region’s first accredited regional laboratory for gold sample analysis through Enami.