Marcelo Orrego at PDAC 2025: Showcasing Argentina’s Mining Investment Potential
Governor Marcelo Orrego is on a mission in Canada to attract investments to San Juan’s mining sector at PDAC 2025. He highlights Argentina’s favorable conditions despite existing foreign exchange restrictions. Orrego aims to clarify investment opportunities and reinforce San Juan’s strategic position in the mining industry with an emphasis on the importance of legal stability and fiscal security.
Marcelo Orrego, the Governor of San Juan, is actively seeking investments during his agenda in Canada. He aims to promote major metal mining projects in his province at various events, including attending the Toronto Stock Exchange. His participation in the PDAC 2025 conference highlights Argentina’s potential to draw investment, particularly in mining.
During his trip, Orrego emphasized that Argentina—especially San Juan—offers “absolutely everything” needed to attract mining investment. This is his second appearance at the convention as governor; he previously showcased investment prospects in March 2024, connecting the province’s capabilities with the global demand for strategic minerals amidst an energy transition.
With San Juan recognized as a leading mining province, Orrego noted the importance of legal security, fiscal stability, and social acceptance for mining projects. However, he identified foreign exchange restrictions as a significant barrier that needs to be addressed for effective investment facilitation.
The governor shared the objectives of his Toronto mission, stressing the necessity of enhancing the value of the mining sector. As President of the Copper Roundtable, one of his goals is to clarify issues surrounding prospecting and exploration. He stated that 57% of mining complexes in Argentina require exploration, many of which are located in San Juan.
Orrego declared, “When discussing mining, we cannot overlook Argentina’s economic situation.” He conveyed a positive message regarding investment opportunities, grounded in improved legal frameworks and the potential alignment of Argentina’s strategic capabilities with global mining interests.
Despite reforms already in place, Orrego pointed out that gradual enhancements are essential. He confirmed that both national and provincial levels have enacted revisions, but eliminating foreign exchange restrictions remains critical for attracting investment.
He further highlighted Argentina’s strong economic growth drivers: Vaca Muerta, agriculture, and mining, noting the importance of critical minerals in meeting global demands. Orrego also expressed his support for Mendoza’s reentry into the mining sector, seeing potential for collaboration within responsible practices.
The governor reiterated that mining policy is at the forefront of state objectives for San Juan, which has nurtured the industry for over four decades. Mining significantly contributes to the province’s exports and economic conditions, particularly in gold and lime production.
Orrego indicated that new investments in mining would enhance living standards in local communities and strengthen supplier networks, vital for value addition within the industry. He mentioned key mining projects, such as the merger between Lundin Mining and BHP, leading to the establishment of Vicuña Corp., which oversees the Josemaría and Filo del Sol projects.
With applications to incentive programs such as the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI), projects like Los Azules and Gualcamayo demonstrate growing investor confidence. Notably, San Juan hosts six out of ten copper projects in Argentina, positioning it as a strategic player in the global energy transition.
Marcelo Orrego’s visit to PDAC 2025 underscores the commitment of San Juan to attracting mining investments, emphasizing the province’s resources and regulatory improvements. While challenges remain, particularly regarding foreign exchange limitations, the proactive approach and identified mining potential signify a significant opportunity for enhancing the region’s economic landscape. The collaboration within the mining sector positions Argentina advantageously in meeting current global demands for essential minerals.
Original Source: www.panorama-minero.com
