Sheinbaum in Favor of Lithium, EV Development

MORENA presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum said her government would support the production of electric vehicles (EVs), highlighting the importance of minerals like copper and lithium. In other news, in response to allegations from the United States accusing Mexico of being a gateway for Chinese products to enter its market, the Ministry of Economy (SE) plans to impose stricter controls on steel and aluminum imports.

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Sheinbaum to Promote Lithium, EVs

Sheinbaum has announced plans to enhance the extraction of strategic minerals like lithium and copper, aiming to support the production of electric vehicles (EVs), should she become president. She emphasized that, if elected, it would be her administration’s responsibility to ensure progress in EV development.

Exploration Vital to Mexico’s Future as a Leading Silver Producer 

George Paspalas, President and CEO, MAG Silver highlights the company's strategic focus on operational efficiency and exploration as key drivers for future growth. He emphasizes the success of the Juanicipio project in achieving significant milestones and generating free cash flow, positioning it well for 2024. 

Unlocking Value from Mining By-Products 

Marco Barragán, Managing Director, Just Refiners Mexico, shares his perspective on the company's focus on providing solutions for the refining and processing of mining byproducts. Barragán emphasizes Just Refiners' goal of recovering precious metals from materials like slags, carbon fines, and precipitates, which were previously considered waste. He highlights how these processes enhance mining operators' value proposition by providing a source of income through the recovery of valuable metals.

Are You Getting the Most of Your Mining Operation? 

Lorena Montano, Director of Operations, Ausenco, shares insights into optimizing mining operations in Mexico. Highlighting a recent collaboration with Luca Mining, Montano emphasizes the critical role of data in identifying performance challenges and driving operational improvements. Ausenco's approach, focusing on metallurgical lab testing, milling circuit optimization, and flotation control, led to significant increases in recovery rates and concentrate grades at Campo Morado, Montano stressed. 

Mexico Strengthens Import Controls Following Trade Allegations

SE is planning to enforce stricter controls on steel and aluminum imports in response to allegations from the United States regarding Mexico's involvement in trade activities with China to the detriment of the US market.

Global Expertise, Strong Economics Underpin Cerro Caliche: Sonoro 

John Darch, Chairman of the Board, Sonoro Gold, highlights key milestones and progress at the Cerro Caliche project in Sonora. In 2023, the company filed updated mineral resource estimation and preliminary economic assessment reports, confirming economic potential and expansion opportunities. Darch emphasizes the project's favorable attributes, including an experienced management team and attractive economics. With only 30% of the known mineralized areas explored, there is significant growth potential, Darch adds. 

Leveraging Water, Geophysics for Mining Excellence 

Ellezer Ramos, Founder and CEO, Tesolum Exploration, highlights the company's diverse services, including its involvement in the La Muralla Project in Chihuahua. Ramos says this project shows promising signs of polymetallic mineralization, with significant gold and silver grades. Tesolum's use of advanced geophysical surveys and exploration techniques aims to uncover a substantial ore body, Ellezer notes.

If We Do Not Lead in ESG Performance, Who Will?: Metso 

Giuseppe Campanelli, President for North and Central America, Metso, emphasizes the region's role in copper production, critical minerals for the automotive industry, and its support for Metso's global operations. Despite the industry's conservatism, Metso is committed to promoting new technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability, he says. 

Cybercrime: De-Risking The New Security Threat for Mining 

David Betancourt, Director General, Mining Risk Advisors, discusses the company's role in mitigating risks for Mexican mining firms. Offering tailored security solutions, Mining Risk Advisors emphasizes addressing political, social, and safety challenges.