Comprehensive Preparation Streamlines Approval Processes

Q: What main services does CIMA Consultores Ambientales’ provide to mining projects?
A: We engage with clients from the earliest phases, often before a site is identified as a viable mining project. We collaborate with Canadian investors during the due diligence process to assess whether the project falls within protected areas and identify potential restrictions. We support clients throughout the entire project life cycle, including exploration, impact assessments, land-use modifications, waste management, and even the closure process.

Q: What differentiates CIMA Consultores Ambientales’ approach from others in the mining sector?
A: Over the past six years, we have focused on elevating operational standards and enhancing reporting quality within the sector. We offer a distinctive service through our "What If?" forward-looking scenario planning. By analyzing potential risks and various scenarios, we enable clients to proactively prepare for unforeseen challenges. This comprehensive level of preparation often streamlines the approval process, as authorities can recognize that we have anticipated and planned for multiple contingencies.

In addition to our high technical expertise, we distinguish ourselves through our unwavering commitment to timely client service and the exceptional quality of our mining studies. Our extensive track record with various mining companies underscores our reliability. In Guerrero, for example, we are collaborating with Argonaut to face challenges related to social issues. In Merida, Yucatan, we are working on reforestation efforts related to the Maya Train project. 

Q: What are CIMA Consultores Ambientales’ expectations for the recently appointed government administration?

A: Our strength lies in our advanced technical expertise, which positions us well in the Mexican mining market, regardless of shifts in government. We adapt to changes by effectively navigating legal frameworks, identifying interpretative pathways, and working within regulatory allowances to ensure our clients can operate without interruption. The appointment of Alicia Bárcena as Minister of Environment and Natural Resources brings significant opportunities. Bárcena introduces an environmental focus that has been clear in her proactive engagement with companies. The current administration is composed of capable and business-oriented people, and we expect this administration’s leadership to be an improvement over the previous government.

The high technical standards set by the administration are expected to lead to increasingly specialized regulatory requirements. Our rigorous technical expertise aligns well with these priorities, adding significant value to our services and differentiating us from competitors who may lack this depth of focus. Technical proficiency will be essential this term, and we are fully prepared to meet these elevated expectations.

Q: In which areas do you see the greatest potential within Mexico’s mining sector?

A: The proposed Mining Law looks stringent, but it could take a more balanced approach as it undergoes the approval process. The new administration can shape the regulatory framework and will likely engage the Ministry of Economy in this process. While the regulation may be rigorous, we anticipate well-defined, enforceable standards that will promote a collaborative environment rather than impose prohibitive measures.

While some fear a proposed ban on open-pit mining, it is unlikely to be outrightly prohibited. The administration is aware of its possible negative economic and social impact, as open-pit operations account for 69% of mining activities. Encouragingly, President Claudia Sheinbaum recently removed this issue from her list of immediate priorities, which signals a pragmatic approach.

Q: What are CIMA Consultores Ambientales’ top priorities for 2025, and what is your recommendation to the industry?
A: The primary focus for 2025 is securing approval for the Cordero and San Nicolás projects in Zacatecas and Chihuahua. Achieving these approvals will provide clients with long-term operational stability. The industry should exercise patience as December will bring changes in regional delegations. By next year, it should have a clearer understanding of how mining, particularly open-pit operations, will evolve. Stricter oversight will favor companies with rigorous standards, while those lacking technical preparedness may find it challenging to adapt.

CIMA Consultores Ambientales uses an interdisciplinary team of experts and strategic alliances to solve clients’ needs regarding planning, environmental and legal management, and sustainable development.