Mendoza province establishes new regulations for state lands used in mining

The government of Mendoza approved a regulatory framework governing the use of provincial state lands for mining activities. The rules set distinct criteria for mines classified as first, second and third category, and introduce a usage fee (canon) that applies only to projects that have reached the exploitation stage on state‑owned parcels. Exploration and prospecting phases are exempt, aiming to avoid additional costs during higher‑risk stages and to encourage new mineral discoveries.

The regulation, drafted with input from the Direction of Mining, the Direction of Management of Registrable State Assets and the State Prosecutor’s Office, seeks to provide greater legal certainty for both the state and mining operators. It establishes transparent procedures for determining the rights and obligations linked to each mining phase, ensures equal conditions for operators on state lands and private property, and adds monitoring mechanisms tied to production, mineral type and surface area to improve administrative traceability.

Overall, the decree is intended to strengthen the province’s legal framework, promote investment in mining, and enhance the transparent management of public mineral assets.