Mendoza Seeks Mining Investment With Legal Support and Low Tax Burden

Mendoza's Governor Alfredo Cornejo outlined the provincial strategy to promote mining activities before U.S. investors, emphasizing lower tax pressure, legal certainty and legislative approval of environmental permits.

During his participation in the US-Argentina Forum on Critical Minerals, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the governor also highlighted the availability of qualified human resources, business climate and Mendoza's logistical connection to Pacific ports.

Cornejo noted that the province amended its Mining Procedures Code and adopted a framework whereby certain environmental permits are reviewed by the Legislature. According to his explanation, this mechanism enabled legal backing for exploration projects and development of a copper venture.

The project in question is PSJ Cobre Mendocino, associated with a deposit that has accumulated five decades of exploration work. The initiative entered the Large Investment Incentive Regime, with US$613.4 million in qualifying assets within a total declared investment of US$891 million. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2027.

At the national level, the governor praised the RIGI for the predictability conditions and guarantees it offers for long-term investments. He also stated that Argentina is experiencing an opportunity to develop critical minerals and warned that the country should not miss it.

The presentation also included discussion on social acceptance of mining. Cornejo questioned whether such acceptance should be interpreted as unanimity and argued that the debate must be approached from a perspective of majority support. In that context, he attributed part of the changing climate to outreach by agricultural business sectors and the new national political landscape.

Information from Panorama Minero.