Colombia Repeals Major Mining Restrictions, Unlocking Millions of Hectares for Exploration
Colombia has abolished two major mining restrictions imposed by former President Gustavo Petro, potentially reopening millions of hectares for exploration and releasing billions of dollars in investment under President Abelardo de La Espriella.Colombia’s Ministry of Mines repealed 15 special mining zones on October 22, covering 5.3 million hectares, or nearly 5% of the country’s land area. The Ministry of Agriculture separately revoked food production protection areas (APPA) in four regions in October, removing another obstacle to mineral development.Juan Camilo Narino, president of the Colombian Mining Association (ACM), said at the National Mining Congress in September: “Colombian mining is seeking to open a new phase and once again become an engine of growth for the country and its regions.”