Mining Insiders Advocate Essential Role in National Development
By Fernando Mares | Journalist & Industry Analyst -
Fri, 06/21/2024 - 09:56
Mining leaders hope president-elect Claudia Sheinbaum adopts a more open stance toward the sector, viewing it as essential for national development rather than an obstacle. In other news, the National Chamber of the Iron and Steel Industry (CANACERO) emphasized that the blockade at ArcelorMittal's plant in Michoacan would negatively impact the region and Mexico-US supply chains.
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Mining Leaders Urge Sheinbaum to Support the Industry
Mining leaders, including the heads of both AIMMGM and CAMIMEX, have urged Sheinbaum to diverge from the policies of current President López Obrador, asserting that despite its pivotal role in the country's development, the industry has been neglected.
More for Less: Optimizing Mexico’s Mining Operations
Jim Norine, Vice President of Minerals and Metals for Southwestern USA, Ausenco, emphasizes the need for modernization and upgrades in Mexico's aging mines, which are experiencing challenges with throughput and technology. He identifies three main strategies for improvement: asset optimization, process optimization, and debottlenecking, and explains how these approaches can boost productivity and efficiency while cutting costs. Against the backdrop of rising metals prices and new mining regulations, Norine suggests that now is the opportune moment for Mexico's mining leaders to pursue optimization and modernization initiatives.
New Reform Seeks to Improve Women's Working Conditions
PT Senator Geovanna Bañuelos has proposed reforms to the Federal Labor Law aimed at improving working conditions for women in the mining sector, including the provision of decent facilities, appropriate uniforms, and exclusive bathrooms for female workers.
Making Mining Great Again: From Villain to Hero
Adrián Juárez, CEO, CTA Consultoría y Tecnología Ambiental, emphasizes the contrasting global attitudes toward mining. While some countries view it as crucial for development, others, particularly in Latin America and Europe, oppose it due to environmental concerns. Juárez questions whether these anti-mining positions truly benefit local populations or lead to job losses and increased poverty. He advocates for a balanced approach that considers both the benefits of mining and responsible environmental practices.
Silver Investors Need Long-Term Projects: Capitan Silver
Alberto Orozco, President, Capitan Silver, notes that despite silver's historical undervaluation and the challenges of attracting capital, there is potential upside given the current gold-silver price disparity. He emphasizes the need for new mine openings due to dwindling reserves and increasing demand, especially as the energy transition is gaining more steam.
Human Remains Found in Pasta de Conchos Mine
The Ministry of the Interior announced the discovery of the first human remains belonging to some of the 63 miners who were trapped in the accident at the Pasta de Conchos mine in Coahuila. The president emphasized that if the rest of the victims are not recovered before the end of his administration, the rescue efforts will continue under the administration of Claudia Sheinbaum.
CANACERO Urges Authorities to Resolve ArcelorMittal Blockade
CANACERO issued a statement emphasizing that the blockade against ArcelorMittal has a significant negative impact on the region, affecting iron and steel-dependent industries and disrupting value chains in both Mexico and the United States.






