Lima, March 4, 2024. Exploration is a fundamental activity for the development of mining, as it allows the discovery of new deposits, extends the useful life of mining units in operation and attracts significant investment for the country.

This initial stage is key for the mining industry and much of the success that can be achieved with a new project depends on the results obtained in this phase. This is why it is so important to promote this activity in the sector, which is one of the most important for the national economy.

In line with this, the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) has expressed its willingness to unblock mining projects, both for construction and exploration, and has been doing so.

Recently, the General Directorate of Mining Environmental Affairs (DGAAM) granted environmental certification to 15 mining exploration projects representing an investment of US$92.7 million.

This favors companies to continue with the mining cycle process, which energizes the regional and local economy, and also promotes the sustainability of the mining activity.

The projects include the modification through the Supporting Technical Report (ITS) of the Environmental Impact Assessment Semi-detailed (EIASd) of Compañía de Minas Buenaventura's Tambomayo exploration project in Arequipa for US$21 million. Modification of the EIASd for Lumina Copper's Galeno exploration project in Cajamarca for US$10 million.

Also, the modification of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of the Pucasalla project in Lima - Ica, by Nexa Resources Peru for US$ 9 million; the modification of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of the Azulmina project in Ancash, by Nexa Resources Peru for US$ 7 million, and the EIS of the Huilacollo project in Tacna, by Vale Exploration for US$ 7 million.

Certifications have also been granted for the following exploration projects: San Martín (San Martín), Alpamarca (Pasco), Huatana (Huancavelica), Azulccacca (Apurímac), Tassa (Moquegua), Bordebamba (Apurímac), El Carmen (Ica), Piedra Grande (La Libertad), Baños del Indio II (Tacna) and Alto Dorado (La Libertad).

These environmental certifications were granted between December 8, 2023 and February 12, 2024, after a rigorous technical-legal evaluation process by a multidisciplinary team.