The surge in copper prices this year has led to a dramatic increase in the number of trucks carrying copper from illegal mines in Peru, causing chaos and hazardous conditions along the country’s key “mining corridor” highway. With the global demand for copper on the rise due to the shift towards electric vehicles and clean energy, illegal mining activities have been booming in Peru.
Industry sources have reported alarming growth in delays and stoppages on the 482-kilometer highway, which is crucial for transporting copper concentrate to the coast. Trucks from artisan and illegal mining operations have been crowding vehicles from major mines like Las Bambas, Constancia, and Antapaccay, leading to accidents and road damage.
According to reports, informal mining trucks were involved in at least 11 accidents in May alone, causing significant damage to the roadway. The growing stand-offs between big mines and artisan miners have complicated government efforts to regulate the sector and spur investment in the country’s economy.
Local community groups have expressed concerns about the lack of control and monitoring along the roads, with one leader noting the influx of more than 100 trucks a day from informal miners. Despite government efforts to regulate artisan mining, the sector remains largely uncontrolled, leading to increased traffic and environmental problems.
As Peru continues to grapple with the challenges of illegal mining, experts warn that the supply chain for illegally mined metals will only continue to grow. With billions of dollars at stake, the government faces an uphill battle in curbing illegal mining activities and promoting sustainable mining practices in the country.
