Mining Day: The Government Defended the RIGI, Called for the Elimination of Internal Barriers, and Warned About Blockages Affecting Projects Such as Vicuña.

The Managing Director of McEwen Copper, operator of the Los Azules project, stated that the province brings together unique conditions for mining development and affirmed that San Juan already has suppliers, professionals, and human infrastructure that facilitate the execution of world-class projects.

San Juan is positioning itself as the engine of Argentina’s new mining cycle through projects such as Altar, Hualilán, and Los Azules. Industry companies highlighted growing investor interest, improved regulatory conditions, and a more favorable environment for financing copper and gold.

Glencore Argentina’s CEO outlined the company’s copper roadmap in the country: reopening Bajo la Alumbrera to place Argentine copper on the market in 2028 and developing El Pachón through successive stages. He also identified the four challenges mining must respond to for society: employment, water, infrastructure, and local development.

TSX Director Guillaume Légaré highlighted the country's positive narrative for attracting mining investment and promised announcements in the coming days. San Juan, host of the Ring the Bell TSX Market Opening Ceremony.

The San Juan Mining Chamber introduced its new leadership with a focus on the sector’s production leap and the infrastructure and social license needs associated with the major projects underway.

The CEO of Vicuña, Ron Hochstein, confirmed the end of the road restrictions in La Rioja and the normalization of logistics for the copper, gold, and silver project. The district is moving toward the final construction decision under the RIGI regime and an estimated mine life of 70 years.

During the Mining Day ceremony, San Juan Governor Marcelo Orrego highlighted the favorable business climate, legal certainty, and the implementation of the RIGI to advance major metal mining projects.

The province is consolidating itself as one of the world’s leading destinations for mining, with a focus on copper and greater regulatory stability.

Expo San Juan Minera 2026 officially opened with the presence of diplomats and national and provincial authorities. The sector was defined as a State policy and a key economic driver representing a historic opportunity for the country.

The reactivation of Casposo, backed by a multi-million-dollar investment and a regional hub model that promotes exports and development, marks an important step for San Juan.

From CaMEM, they warn that exploratory development starts from a low level of information and requires time, investment, and trust.

Dr. Aníbal Altamira (School of Mountain Road Engineering – EICAM) highlights the potential of Calingasta’s mountain passes. Routes such as La Chapetona stand out for their lower altitude and limited snowfall, offering a strategic and complementary alternative for Chile.

The Governor of San Juan, Marcelo Orrego, spoke again and reaffirmed the defense of provincial jurisdiction over the Vicuña Project.

Canadian company AbraSilver Resource Corp. has taken a key strategic step in consolidating the Diablillos project after completing the acquisition of the Condoryacu and María Amalia properties, and reporting drilling results that reinforce the district’s positioning as one of the most promising precious metals developments in northern Argentina.

The visit of a European Parliament mission reinforces interest in the province’s mining potential and its key role in logistical and productive integration between South America and Europe.

Energy costs, infrastructure, and the global context are shaping the sector, while rising metal prices open new opportunities.

Phase 4 drilling has reached 88%. With more than 22,000 meters completed and eight rigs in operation, the Lunahuasi exploration campaign continues to deliver high-grade and large-scale results, while the company strengthens its financial position and advances toward underground development.