Panama Denies Authorization for Visits to Cobre Panama Mine

Government Blocks Unilateral Entry

Panama’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry has stated that it has not authorized visits to the shuttered Cobre Panama mine operated by First Quantum Minerals. The ministry clarified that any visits to the site have been arranged unilaterally by the company without government approval.

Official Statement on Entry Restrictions

Minister Julio Molto shared a statement on X emphasizing that the Panamanian government is managing the situation and has not endorsed external visits. The government is currently in the process of contracting a comprehensive audit to assess the mine’s operations and environmental impact objectively.

Concerns Over Public Visits

The government expressed concerns that allowing public visits before the audit is completed could affect the impartiality of the evaluation. The statement was released after First Quantum announced plans to host visits to the mining site.

Background on Cobre Panama Mine

The Cobre Panama mine has been shut down since 2023 due to an ongoing environmental dispute. Before its closure, the mine was a significant global copper supplier, contributing approximately 1% of worldwide copper output.

Potential Impact on Copper Market

With the mine’s operations halted, concerns remain about its effect on global copper supply. The government’s stance suggests that further negotiations and regulatory actions could be forthcoming.

“Panama Denies Authorization for Visits to Cobre Panama Mine”