# Argentina energy and mining sector developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/argentina-energy-and-mining-sector-developments
> Updated: 2026-09-15T22:08:41.000Z. Sources: 19. Developments: 2.

Industrial and regulatory activity in Argentina’s energy and mining sectors has seen both localized disruptions and significant new investments.

In Chubut, the oil sector faced paralysis at the Manantiales Behr field due to tensions between the Truckers Union and oil workers regarding new automation technology. Union leaders described the situation as a ‘lockout patronal’ (employer lockout) stemming from disputes over service rates. However, operations in the province have also seen expansion, with Crown Point Energía resuming drilling in the Puesto Quiroga area of the El Tordillo concession. This resumption includes a USD 45 million investment plan to drill eight new wells annually and perform 24 workover interventions in the Gulf San Jorge Basin.

In Santa Cruz, the mining sector has experienced regulatory scrutiny and intensified exploration. The provincial government ordered task cessations at Newmont’s Cerro Negro site following reports of safety and hygiene violations. While authorities considered site closure, a work agenda was established to address security and environmental compliance. Concurrently, mining exploration is increasing in the Deseado Massif, with 14 gold and silver projects active, including drilling campaigns by Fredonia Mining and FOMICRUZ.

## Claims

- INSUGA aims to export more than 85% of its production. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The company targets new markets in Asia, Central America, and South America. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The company will use the port of Corrientes and the future Port of Las Palmas for exports. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The plant produces bovine tallow and meat and bone meal. (single source)
- Current shipments are being sent to the United States and the port of Montevideo. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-15: Crown Point Energía resumes oil drilling in Chubut with USD 45 million plan

Argentina sees increased industrial activity as Crown Point Energía resumes oil drilling in Chubut, INSUGA expands export plans in Chaco, and mining exploration intensifies in Santa Cruz.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/insuga-targets-85-export-rate-for-animal-by-products

### 2026-09-13: Argentina energy and mining sectors face labor and regulatory tensions

Industrial conflicts impact Argentina's energy sector in Chubut over PECOM's operational changes, while Santa Cruz authorities intensify inspections of Newmont's Cerro Negro mining site.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pecom-operations-paralyzed-at-manantiales-behr-due-to-labor-dispute

---
Cite as: Argentina energy and mining sector developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/argentina-energy-and-mining-sector-developments