Peru proposes new MAPE law to formalize small-scale mining

Peru's Minister of Energy and Mines, Guillermo Shinno, has presented a proposal for a new Small-Scale and Artisanal Mining Law (Ley MAPE). The initiative aims to replace current fragmented and temporary regulations with a permanent legal framework designed to promote sustainability and productive development in the sector.

Under the proposal, the Integral Mining Formalization Registry (Reinfo) will conclude on December 31, 2026. A consolidation regime will then run from January 1, 2027, until December 31, 2028, exclusively for those currently registered in Reinfo. The plan also includes the creation of the National Agency for the Strengthening of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (FORMAPE), an entity under MINEM responsible for promoting operational standards, labor practices, safety, and technological innovation.

Economically, formalizing the artisanal and small-scale mining (MAPE) sector could potentially contribute an additional 1.5% to Peru's GDP and generate between 300,000 and 400,000 jobs. To support this, experts suggest implementing mechanisms that allow small producers to associate and achieve economies of scale, moving beyond mere legal compliance toward improved profitability.