Mexico's mining sector faces $11 billion investment hold‑up over permits

The Cámara Minera de México (Camimex) reported that about $11 billion in mining projects are stalled because required authorizations have not been granted. President of Camimex Pedro Rivero said the lack of new concessions since the 2023 mining law reform hampers the transition from exploration to construction, threatening future production as existing reserves dwindle.

Despite the investment blockage, the sector posted a record production value of 379.29 billion pesos in 2025, up 21.2 % year‑on‑year, driven by higher international metal prices. Physical output, however, remained essentially unchanged. Fiscal contributions rose 72.3 % to 78.1 billion pesos, reflecting higher mining fees and metal prices.

Camimex estimates the industry could invest more than $14 billion in key projects if permitting processes improve. The organization urges faster concession grants and environmental approvals to reactivate exploration and secure Mexico’s role as a strategic supplier of critical minerals for North America.