Proposed Ban on Open-Pit Mining Could Crush Mexico's Economy

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s recent proposal to ban open-pit mining is causing concern within the mining sector, which is a significant contributor to the country’s economy, accounting for 2.5% of its GDP. Industry representatives argue that the proposed ban, aimed at preventing new open-pit mining concessions, could lead to uncertainty and deter investment in this crucial sector. Mexico, being the leading silver producer globally and a significant producer of gold and copper, could face adverse effects from such a policy. Although the proposal is not expected to pass in the short term due to a lack of necessary congressional support, it has been endorsed by Claudia Sheinbaum, the frontrunner to succeed Lopez Obrador, as part of her campaign platform. This endorsement has intensified concerns about the future of mining investments in Mexico.