Buenaventura, one of Peru’s leading mining companies, is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to transform its geology and exploration processes. At the Business Innovation Now event hosted by the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP), José Enrique Gutiérrez, Director of Modeling and Resources at Buenaventura, explained how AI tools are enhancing decision-making. By combining continuous innovation with advanced data technologies, the company is achieving faster and more accurate exploration outcomes.
Key applications include the Yupay platform, which integrates GIS mapping with computer vision for drill core and photo analysis, machine learning for geochemical prediction, and natural language processing to leverage historical geological descriptions. In parallel, Buenaventura has established data governance systems based on cloud architecture to ensure data quality and traceability. Predictive dashboards and models help direct drilling programs more efficiently resulting in higher productivity.
By combining geoscience with digital technologies, Buenaventura is redefining how exploration is conducted in Peru. The integration of AI-driven platforms such as Yupay, coupled with strong data governance, points to a gradual shift toward efficiency and predictive capacity in mining. This trajectory not only enhances competitiveness but also places the company at the center of a regional push to align mining practices with innovation, sustainability, and closer ties between industry and academia.