Antofagasta to ramp up copper output on critical minerals demand, World Mining Congress 2026 delegates hear
The mining industry has both the opportunity and the responsibility to respond to the growing global demand for critical minerals required for the energy transition, according to Iván Arriagada, Executive Chairman and CEO of Antofagasta PLC.
In this context, Arriagada announced that Antofagasta aims to increase its production by 30% by 2030 through the expansion of its operations in Chile, the incorporation of new technologies and the optimisation of existing infrastructure, outlining this during the panel discussion “From Urgency to Action” at the World Mining Congress 2026, in Lima, Peru, this week.
“The urgency is to respond to this demand with new and growing production, but to do so responsibly and while generating benefits for the communities and countries where we operate,” he stated.
Arriagada emphasised that innovation will be one of the key enablers for achieving this goal. He explained that the adoption of new technologies and more efficient processes will help accelerate project development and improve operational productivity, while reducing risks and optimising capital allocation.
He also highlighted the potential of brownfield expansions – projects that leverage existing infrastructure and operations – to respond more quickly to market needs. According to Arriagada, these initiatives offer significant competitive advantages due to their established geological knowledge, installed infrastructure and existing relationships with local communities.
“Knowledge of the resource base, existing infrastructure and community trust are key elements for scaling up production more quickly and efficiently,” he noted.
During his remarks, the executive also stressed the need to address the barriers that continue to limit the development of new mining projects. In particular, he pointed to lengthy regulatory timelines and the importance of strengthening collaboration between governments and companies to accelerate strategic investments.
Arriagada recalled that several studies project a significant copper supply deficit by 2035, representing both a challenge and an opportunity for producing countries. In this regard, he noted that Latin America possesses geological and operational advantages that position the region to play a critical role in meeting future global mineral demand.
Finally, he called for greater recognition and differentiation of minerals produced under high environmental and social standards, promoting mechanisms that reward responsible and sustainable practices throughout the global supply chain.
“The challenge is not only to produce more, but to do so in a way that generates wellbeing for communities and strengthens trust in mining as a driver of development,” he concluded.
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