Mining Conditions Expected to Improve Under Sheinbaum

Several mining leaders believe that president-elect Claudia Sheinbaum will adopt a more industry-friendly stance compared to López Obrador’s government, suggesting potential for more sustainable growth in the sector.

While experts note that the full impact of Sheinbaum's approach will only become clear once she assumes office on Oct. 1, there is optimism due to her openness to the private sector. "She is forming a very good team, which is also aware that Mexico needs mining. I think we will see a significant change. It is anticipated that Sheinbaum's incoming administration will adopt a more favorable stance toward the extractive industry in Mexico, which could potentially benefit projects like our flagship Cerro Caliche," said John Darch, Chairman, Sonoro Gold.

Mariano Calderón, Partner, Santamarina + Steta, also views Sheinbaum’s cabinet positively, citing their qualifications and experience. "We do foresee a change in the relationship with the private sector toward a more positive and open direction. Although the issue of mining remains very sensitive.” For instance, he stressed that Sheinbaum has promised no new open-pit mining concessions. However, she has also proposed accelerating electromobility and emphasized the importance of the energy transition.

Jaime Gutiérrez, former President, CAMIMEX, commented on Alicia Bárcena, the incoming Minister of SEMARNAT, stating that while Sheinbaum’s government acknowledges the need to move from extractivism to sustainability, it will not completely close the door on mining. "In such general terms, it can be thought that the future secretary refers to controlling extractivism with awareness, to being sustainable, not to a complete halt of mineral or oil and gas extraction. Knowing her, her technical background, it will certainly be studied how to proceed with these operations in a sustainable way."