Mining investment grew 43.7% year-over-year in the first quarter, reaching US$1.5 billion

The Peruvian mining sector began 2026 with a marked recovery in its investment levels, driven by the execution of infrastructure projects, operational expansions, and improvements in various production units across the country. The dynamism observed during the first three months of the year allowed for the consolidation of one of the greatest advances recorded in recent periods.

According to figures from the Mining Statistics Bulletin of the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM), cumulative mining investment between January and March reached US$1.5 billion, an amount that exceeded the figure recorded in the same period of 2025 by 43.71%. The result reflects an acceleration in the development of initiatives aimed at strengthening the productive capacity and competitiveness of the national mining industry.

In March alone, capital expenditures by companies in the sector totaled US$623 million, representing a 31.41% increase from February and a 55.11% increase compared to the same month last year. This growth was driven by increased investments in infrastructure, exploration, operational development, and the optimization of processing plants.

Among the best-performing sectors, infrastructure stood out as the main driver of mining investment growth during the first quarter. This sector recorded cumulative growth of 116.81% year-over-year, driven by projects aimed at improving strategic facilities, increasing operational efficiencies, and strengthening capabilities within the country’s major mining operations.

Similarly, expenditures related to mine development and preparation grew by 50.81% year-over-year, while investments in processing plants increased by 30.11% year-over-year. Meanwhile, the mining equipment sector recorded a 28.41% increase, reflecting companies’ increased efforts to maintain and boost their production levels.

In the corporate rankings, Southern Peru Copper Corporation was the sector’s leading investor as of the end of March. The company invested US$1.88 billion, equivalent to 12.51% of the national total, consolidating its position as one of the most important players in the development of mining projects in the country.

Second place went to Shougang Hierro Perú, which invested a total of US$1.53 billion, accounting for 10.21% of the total. A significant portion of these funds was allocated to infrastructure improvement projects and the upgrading of processing facilities.

Minera Las Bambas rounded out the top three with investments totaling US$1.44 billion, accounting for 9.61% of national mining investment. The company also stood out for recording one of the highest growth rates among the sector’s leading companies, driven by expenditures related to infrastructure development and the maintenance of its operations in Apurímac.

For its part, Compañía Minera Antamina ranked fourth with investments totaling US$116 million. The funds were primarily allocated to equipment upgrades, facility maintenance, and operational improvements at one of the country’s leading copper and zinc producers.

The first-quarter results show a favorable scenario for Peruvian mining activity, in an international context characterized by attractive mineral prices and sustained demand for raw materials. This performance reinforces the outlook for new investments during the rest of the year and reaffirms mining's role as one of the main drivers of the national economy.