PERU: Illegal and Informal Copper Mining Risks Production Targets

On June 3, 2025, Peru projected copper output to reach 2.8 million tonnes in 2025, slightly above 2024 levels. The forecast is backed by $4.8 billion in mining investment and a 4% rise in formal Q1 production. However, officials warned that informal and illegal copper extraction is growing in regions like Cusco and Puno, undermining environmental controls and market stability. While formal output strengthens, unregulated mining could threaten Peru’s reputation, tax revenues, and sustainability goals.