LIMA, June 24, 2026 — Peru’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Waldir Ayasta, announced that mining investment in the country is expected to reach approximately US$6.3 billion in 2026. He attributed this positive outlook to investor confidence in Peru’s geological potential, macroeconomic stability, and government efforts to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness.
Ayasta made the announcement during the opening ceremony of the 27th World Mining Congress (WMC 2026), which is being held in Lima and has attracted business leaders, government officials, academics, experts, and investors from around the world.
“The results achieved so far allow us to project mining investment of around US$6.3 billion this year,” Ayasta said. “This reflects investors’ confidence in Peru’s geological potential, macroeconomic stability, and the opportunities our country offers.”
Peru’s Mining Project Pipeline Exceeds US$64 Billion
During his address, Ayasta underscored Peru’s strategic role in the global mining industry. As one of the world’s leading producers of copper, silver, and zinc, the country continues to attract significant investment interest.
He also highlighted Peru’s mining project portfolio, which is valued at more than US$64 billion.
“This demonstrates Peru’s vast geological potential and the opportunities it presents for responsible and sustainable investment,” Ayasta said. “The portfolio will strengthen our contribution to the global supply of strategic and critical minerals.”
Government Advances Modernization Agenda
The minister noted that the government is actively implementing measures to facilitate investment by modernizing state institutions and technical processes.
As per the press release, these efforts form part of a broader strategy to improve efficiency and create a more attractive environment for mining investment.
“We are convinced that the future of mining depends on progress built on three fundamental pillars,” Ayasta said, identifying technology, sustainability, and trust as the foundations of a modern mining industry.
Mining Remains a Key Driver of Peru’s Economy
Ayasta also emphasized the mining sector’s significant contribution to the national economy. Currently, mining accounts for approximately 12% of Peru’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and more than 60% of the country’s exports. In addition, the industry continues to generate employment and economic resources across the country’s regions.
According to the minister, the sector created an average of 278,000 direct jobs during the first four months of 2026. Meanwhile, mining-related fiscal revenues exceeded PEN 15 billion during the same period.
Furthermore, transfers from mining royalties, mining canon, validity rights, and penalties surpassed PEN 4.1 billion, reinforcing the sector’s importance to regional development and public finances.
World Mining Congress Brings Together Global Industry Leaders
The World Mining Congress 2026 officially opened on June 24 and will run through June 26 at the Lima Convention Center. The event has brought together participants from more than 50 countries.
The program features keynote speeches, technical sessions, a technology exhibition, and ministerial roundtables. Representatives from nine countries will discuss key issues shaping the industry, including critical minerals, the energy transition, competitiveness, innovation, and sustainability.
