The Las Bambas Copper Mine, which rooted in the southern Andes region of Peru two decades ago, is a world-class mining project. It serves as a vivid illustration of how to build a community with a shared future for mankind between China and Latin America.
Contributing to economic development
The Las Bambas Copper Mine, a world-class large-scale copper deposit, is one of China Minmetals Corporation (China Minmetals)’s key overseas assets. Since acquiring the mine in 2014, the company has emphasized green and sustainable resource development, creating tens of thousands of jobs and driving Peru’s economic growth.
Since its commissioning in 2016, the project has contributed over 12.8 billion yuan ($1.76 billion) in taxes to the Peruvian government and accounted for approximately 1 percent of the country’s GDP.
The Las Bambas Copper Mine, a world-class large-scale copper deposit, is one of China Minmetals’ key overseas assets. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
In operating the Las Bambas Copper Mine, China Minmetals has introduced advanced open-pit mining and automated ore processing technologies, significantly improving key performance metrics such as ore throughput and mineral recovery rates. By the end of 2023, it had produced 2.71 million tons of copper concentrate. The application of digital and intelligent technologies has further enhanced decision-making efficiency, reduced operational costs and increased production output.
China Minmetals is also deeply committed to localized operations. Peruvians currently make up 98.4 percent of the staff, including many who have returned home to avail of these opportunities. The mine has further stimulated local industries such as transportation, catering and lodging. In 2023, the project contributed to more than 5,600 indirect jobs.
Protecting the environment
Located at an altitude of around 4,000 meters in the Andes, the Las Bambas Copper Mine is surrounded by 33 communities and villages. Guided by the principles of “respecting, adapting to and protecting nature”, the mine has undertaken various ecological initiatives, including afforestation, environmental monitoring and wildlife protection, to minimize its ecological impact.
Since 2015, the mine has collaborated with 22 local nurseries to provide funding and technical support to 34 communities in the Cotabambas and Grau provinces. This effort has resulted in the planting of pine and quenual trees across 368 hectares, with nearly 1.9 million trees cultivated in nurseries. More than 500 people participate in the monthly care and maintenance of the trees.
To enhance environmental monitoring, Las Bambas established an environmental lab and installed air monitoring devices along ore transport routes. The company regularly submits monitoring results to environmental authorities and hosts workshops to gather feedback from nearby residents. In 2023, about 600,000 trout fry were released to local waterways, which helps improve aquatic biodiversity and maintain ecological balance.
Empowering through education
Las Bambas has actively supported local education by improving school infrastructure and launching education-focused projects.
In recent years, Las Bambas invested 23.4 million yuan ($3.2 million) to rebuild the largest secondary school in the Mara district, constructing 11 classrooms, 3 laboratories, a library and 15 accessible facilities, benefiting 276 students. The mine has also provided internet access to six directly impacted communities, donating computers, interactive whiteboards, projectors and other learning tools to local schools.
Las Bambas supports local education by improving school infrastructure and launching education-focused projects. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
The mine also prioritizes local talent development through programs such as “Small Business Management Training” and “Local Talent Training”. In 2024, the mine launched a three-year training program to equip 26 community members with skills in mobile mining equipment maintenance, enabling them to become certified professionals in mining operations.
Prioritizing health and safety
At the core of Las Bambas’ operations is a commitment to employee health and safety, which the company views as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Located at high altitudes, where oxygen deficiency poses challenges to safe operations, the mine has developed an “Intelligent Safety Helmet Anti-Fatigue Driving System”. Using EEG technology, the system monitors micro-sleep patterns among drivers and provides fatigue warnings.
The mine has also extended its safety awareness initiatives to employees’ families. In 2024, the mine introduced the “Critical Life Control Pocket Guide”, outlining essential safety measures for avoiding 12 types of workplace hazards.
Under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, Las Bambas Copper Mine will further its role as a bridge for practical cooperation, cultivating even greater shared prosperity.
(Executive editor: Zhu Zeya)
