Chilean mining groups present constitutional proposals

Chile’s mining chamber and copper research center Cesco presented proposals this week for the country’s new magna carta to the constitutional convention. 

Cesco bets on the state remaining as the owner of the country's mineral resources and modifying the duration of exploration concessions to up to three years, renewable only once for another three years. On mining property, it proposes to set a minimum investment commitment and an increase in the annual patent.

Regarding lithium mining, Cesco proposes the establishment of a general framework for its use by the state through its companies or through partnerships with the private sector.

On taxes, Cesco’s proposal is to apply a royalty on non-renewable resources that replaces the current specific mining tax. 

The mining chamber, meanwhile, focused on proposals that provide security and stability, as well as giving greater added value to raw materials.

Chamber president Manuel Viera proposed new standards on environmental protection and social development but focused on sustainability. He also argued for maintaining and protecting legal and tax security, as well as private property rights. 

Earlier in the week, mining association Sonami presented its proposals for the new constitution. 

Photo credit: Codelco