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[BUSINESS] · Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru · 17 sources

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Argentina and Chile approve protocols for major cross-border mining projects

Argentina and Chile have reactivated the 1997 Mining Integration and Complementation Treaty, approving specific operating protocols for three major cross-border mining projects: Vicuña, NexoAndino, and Filo Sur. Located in the Andes between Argentina’s San Juan province and Chile’s Atacama region, these projects involve high-value copper and lithium deposits. The new protocols aim to facilitate shared infrastructure, logistics, and the movement of workers across the border without extensive migratory bureaucracy.

Officials estimate these agreements could unlock more than USD 20.7 billion in investment. The Vicuña project integrates the Josemaría, Tamberías, and Filo del Sol deposits, while NexoAndino combines Los Helados and Lunahuasi. The Filo Sur project will unify exploration efforts within the Vicuña District.

In a broader regional move, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru signed a joint declaration in Santiago to strengthen cooperation on strategic minerals. This alliance seeks to position the region as a reliable global supplier of critical resources, such as copper and lithium, which are essential for the energy transition and artificial intelligence. Experts suggest global demand for these minerals could rise by 400% to 600% over the next decade.

Entities

Argentina · Atacama · Bolivia · Chile · Filo Sur Project · Luis Lucero · NexoAndino Project · Peru · Vicuña Project

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