The Warning
On September 10, 2025, the Instituto de Ingenieros de Minas del Perú (IIMP) issued a strong statement warning that illegal and informal mining has become the greatest threat to the long-term sustainability of the sector. According to the institute, this parallel economy not only undermines fiscal revenues and formal employment but also fuels criminal networks linked to extortion, violence, and environmental destruction. The IIMP urged the government to recognize the systemic risk posed by illegal mining and to adopt an integrated, high-level response rather than isolated interventions.
The Scope of the Problem
Illegal mining in Peru is now present in nearly every region, from Cajamarca and Puno to Madre de Dios and the Amazonian departments, producing billions of dollars annually outside state control. Its impact is felt in degraded river systems, deforestation, and heavy-metal contamination that endanger public health. The IIMP stressed that this situation erodes Peru’s international reputation at a time when global markets increasingly demand traceability and responsible sourcing of critical minerals. Without decisive state action, the sector risks losing competitiveness and investor confidence.
Call to Action
The institute proposed a combination of stricter enforcement, accelerated formalization programs, and better coordination among ministries, regional governments, and law enforcement agencies. It also highlighted the importance of promoting alternative livelihoods in areas heavily dependent on illegal mining, so that communities can see tangible benefits from the formal economy. For the IIMP, safeguarding Peru’s future as a mining powerhouse depends on proving that the country can supply minerals responsibly, ensuring both environmental protection and social stability while closing the space for illegality.