proEXPLO 2026 to Address the Impact of Illegal Mining on the Country’s Economy and Security
Experts will analyze the economic, social, and security impacts generated by illegal mining, as well as the challenges it poses for the development of a formal and sustainable mining sector.
Lima, March 11, 2026.- The issue of illegal mining in Peru will be one of the central topics of the 15th International Congress of Prospectors and Explorers (proEXPLO 2026), an event organized by the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers (IIMP) that will take place from May 4 to 6 at the Centro de Exposiciones Jockey in Lima.
During the congress, experts from both the public and private sectors will present on the economic, social, and national security impacts associated with this illicit activity, as well as the challenges it poses for the development of a formal and sustainable mining industry.
Among the featured presentations is “Illegal Mining as a Threat to National Security: State Strategies to Combat Organized Crime and Protect Territories,” to be delivered by Gen. (Ret.) Rodolfo García, High Commissioner for Combating Illegal Mining at the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
Fiscal Impact
In addition, Carlos Gallardo, General Manager of the Peruvian Institute of Economics (IPE), will present the lecture “The Economic Costs of Illegal Mining in Peru: Fiscal Impacts, Market Distortions, and Challenges for Sustainable Development,” where he will analyze the consequences that this activity generates for the national economy.
Meanwhile, Javier Arenas, Mining Account Director at Arenas Comunicaciones y Sostenibilidad Consultores, will address the social impacts, conflict dynamics, and challenges involved in advancing toward sustainable mining amid the growth of informal and illegal mining in the country.
The program will also include the roundtable discussion “Challenges of Illegal Mining: Consequences for Mining Exploration, the National Economy, and Peru’s Sustainability,” which will be moderated by Mario Cedrón and will feature the participation of Rodolfo García, Carlos Gallardo, Walter Tejada, Lucas Ghersi, and César Ipenza.
proEXPLO 2026 will bring together mining industry leaders, geologists, investors, government representatives, and academics from different countries to highlight the role of exploration in the responsible discovery of the minerals required for the energy transition. Those interested in attending the congress may register by email at helen.loaiza@iimp.org.pe or by phone at +51 951 294 314.