Keiko Fujimori's mining agenda in Peru faces heightened social conflict risk

A study by the Observatorio de Conflictos Mineros warns that accelerating copper projects could trigger protests in Peru's mining regions. The analysis notes that most of the key mining zones voted against President‑elect Keiko Fujimori, raising the likelihood of tensions if her government fast‑tracks approvals without addressing community opposition and environmental concerns.

The report highlights the $1.8 billion Tía María project of Southern Copper, slated to start operations in 2027, and the Río Blanco copper project of Chinese firm Zijin as potential flashpoints. Fujimori has pledged to speed up mining investments through a rapid‑approval system and tax incentives, while promising that 40 % of mining revenues be allocated to local populations. Mining accounts for over 60 % of Peru’s exports, making its continuity critical to the economy. The Defensoría del Pueblo records roughly 200 active social conflicts, 64 of which relate to mining and environmental disputes.