Minera Centinela ends strike with $24 million labor agreement

Minera Centinela, owned by Antofagasta Minerals, has reached a collective bargaining agreement with the Minera Esperanza and Distrito Centinela unions, effectively ending a ten-day strike that began on October 7.

The new 36-month contract includes a $24 million bonus for the conclusion of negotiations and the renewal of work shifts, alongside improvements to wages and benefits. The agreement was approved by 94.49% of participating workers. A key driver of the dispute was the demand for equal benefits and conditions among workers performing similar functions across different unions.

The resolution followed voluntary mediation led by the Regional Labor Directorate of Antofagasta. While the strike raised concerns regarding copper production, the company stated it managed to maintain operational continuity throughout the period. The settlement reduces labor uncertainty in the Chilean mining sector during a time of contracting mining activity.