Delays in Environmental Permitting Undermine the Competitiveness of Mineral Exploration in Peru
Adán Pino, president of proEXPLO 2026, warns that a lack of efficiency in permitting reduces the likelihood of new discoveries, while the advance of illegal mining increases perceived risk.
Lima, April 6, 2026.- Lengthy timelines for obtaining environmental permits, often extending between two and three years, have become one of the main factors limiting the competitiveness of mineral exploration in Peru, warned geologist Adán Pino, president of proEXPLO 2026.
“That is far too long. Two or three years is enough time for a company to decide to shift its budget to another country,” he added. He noted that these timelines are significantly longer than in competing countries such as Chile or Argentina, where such processes can be completed in less than a year, increasing the risk that companies redirect their investments to other markets.
Eroding Competitiveness
In this regard, the specialist emphasized that exploration depends directly on the ability to carry out drilling within reasonable timeframes.
“If drilling doesn’t take place, the chance of making a discovery is zero. And to drill, the permitting system needs to be efficient,” he said during the webinar Road to proEXPLO 2026, organized by the Geological and Geophysical Engineering Chapter of the Peruvian Engineers Association - Arequipa Regional Council.
Pino also warned about the impact of illegal mining on the country’s competitiveness, noting that its expansion in recent years has been affecting risk perception in certain areas.
In this context, he called for coordinated efforts to address these challenges and strengthen Peru’s position on the global stage.
“We need to address these challenges to make Peru a competitive country and attract exploration to the region,” he added.
Against this backdrop, Pino stated that proEXPLO 2026 aims to position itself as a platform for advancing concrete solutions to these challenges. The event will include dedicated sessions to address critical issues such as permitting, illegal mining, and professional training, while also promoting the exchange of global knowledge.
“The goal is to showcase Peru’s geological potential, but also to foster discussion on the main challenges facing the sector, thereby helping improve our capabilities and attract new investment,” he concluded.