Mining regulations undergo updates in Chile and Peru

In Chile, the mining sector has expressed support for a draft amendment to the Environmental Impact Assessment System (SEIA) regulations. The proposal, promoted by the Ministry of the Environment, seeks to increase the entry threshold for mining projects from 5,000 to 40,000 tons per month. Jorge Riesco, president of the National Mining Society (SONAMI), stated that this change aims to modernize the regulatory framework, reduce bureaucracy, and provide greater certainty for small-scale mining operations.

In Peru, the Environmental Evaluation and Enforcement Agency (OEFA) contributed to new technical standards approved by the Ministry of Energy and Mines. These regulations establish the minimum content for mine closure plans and semi-annual progress reports. The initiative aims to standardize technical evaluations, improve transparency, and strengthen the monitoring of environmental commitments to ensure the proper rehabilitation of areas following mining operations.