AIMMGM Calls for Open Debate on Mining Law

The Association of Mining Engineers, Metallurgists and Geologists of Mexico (AIMMGM) called on Congress to organize an open debate with the entire mining industry before the Mining Law is voted on. AIMMGM pointed out that, prior to the vote, it is necessary to listen to the communities that benefit from mining, as well as to the sector experts.

Next week, the president's initiative to reform the Mining, National Waters, Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection and General Laws for the Prevention and Integral Management of Waste will be voted on by the United Commissions of Energy and Economy, Commerce and Competitiveness of the Chamber of Deputies. Subsequently, these reforms will be voted on by the Chamber of Deputies.

"We urge legislators to convene an open parliament to discuss the initiative that will affect mining and at least 70 sectors that depend on the inputs provided by this industry. It is regrettable that the reasons for amending the law are based on erroneous and inaccurate information, so it is necessary to open a space for those involved. We need to present the technical, environmental, social and economic arguments to avoid the contraction of a sector that contributes 2.5% of the national GDP," AIMMGM stated.

What Does the New Mining Law Propose?
The new legislation, which was dispatched to the Executive and is awaiting promulgation in the Official Gazette, reduced the duration of mining concessions from a maximum of 100 to 80 years. The text also establishes that exploratory activities are reserved to the State through the Mexican Geological Service (SGM) or assignments to entities of the federal public administration.

The changes also state that the ministry "will only grant mining concessions through a public bidding competition that guarantees the State the best economic and benefit conditions for the population, as well as the realization of actions to preserve, restore and improve the environment, prevent and control air, water, soil, and subsoil pollution, in accordance with applicable provisions."

The concession title must be given to whoever obtains the corresponding competition ruling, after processing the environmental, labor, energy, social and any other authorizations and permits that must be processed at the federal level, in addition to the corresponding water concession for industrial use in mining, in accordance with applicable regulations.