Lima, Peru, recently hosted the 27th World Mining Congress (WMC 2026), an event that brought together over 5,500 participants from 55 countries to deliberate on the pivotal role of mining in addressing contemporary global challenges. The congress served as a crucial platform for industry leaders, government authorities, academics, and international organizations to forge a shared vision for the future of mining and the critical minerals essential for the global energy transition.
High-Level Dialogue on Critical Minerals and Investment
A significant highlight of WMC 2026 was the High-Level Roundtable, spearheaded by Peru’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Waldir Ayasta. This session convened government and institutional representatives from ten economies across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, underscoring the international collaborative spirit required for the sector’s advancement.
Discussions throughout the plenary sessions consistently emphasized the growing dependence of modern technologies—ranging from electric vehicles to artificial intelligence—on a robust supply of minerals. Panelists concurred that nations endowed with substantial geological potential must bolster their competitiveness, efficiency, and capacity to initiate new mining projects. The dialogue also shifted focus from mere mineral resource availability to the imperative of cultivating an environment conducive to attracting long-term investment. Key factors identified for capitalizing on the mining sector’s historic opportunity included legal stability, trust among governments, companies, and communities, innovation, skilled talent, and sustainability.
Peru’s Enduring Mining Potential and Investment Growth
Holding the World Mining Congress in Lima after 52 years was particularly significant for Peru, a nation recognized for its vast geological potential and a mining sector that is a cornerstone of its economy. Peru stands as the world’s third-largest copper producer and a major global gold producer.
The country’s commitment to the mining sector is evident in its recent investment figures. In the first four months of 2026, Peru’s mining industry attracted US$2.05 billion in investments, marking a substantial 43.5% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Infrastructure investments were a primary driver of this growth, surging by 86.1% to reach US$564 million. Major investors during this period included Southern Peru Copper Corporation, Shougang Hierro Peru, and Minera Las Bambas, collectively contributing significantly to the sector’s expansion.
Minister Waldir Ayasta expressed confidence in Peru’s mining outlook, projecting total investments to reach approximately US$6.3 billion by the end of 2026. This forecast reflects strong investor confidence in Peru’s geological wealth, macroeconomic stability, and the myriad opportunities within its mining landscape.
A Call to Action for the Industry
Abraham Chahuan, President of WMC 2026, articulated the congress’s true value as the practical application of its insights across the industry. He urged participants to return to their organizations with
new ideas, stronger partnerships, and a renewed commitment to collaboration, emphasizing that the future of mining hinges on the actions taken post-Lima.
Juan Carlos Ortiz, President of the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers (IIMP), echoed this sentiment, highlighting the congress as an unparalleled opportunity to strengthen long-term relationships, showcase Peru’s mining capabilities, and reaffirm its dedication to modern, responsible, and globally connected mining.
China to Host WMC 2028
The congress concluded with the symbolic handover of the WMC lamp to China, which is set to host the 28th World Mining Congress from June 26 to 28, 2028, in Hefei. This transition signifies the ongoing global collaboration and the continuous evolution of the mining industry.
