Peru successfully concluded the 27th World Mining Congress (WMC 2026), the world’s leading mining event, which transformed Lima into the global meeting point for industry leaders, government authorities, academics, international organizations, and experts to discuss the decisive role mining will play in addressing the world’s major challenges.
More than 5,500 participants from 55 countries attended this year’s Congress, reinforcing its position as the premier global platform for dialogue aimed at building a shared vision for the future of mining and the critical minerals needed to support the energy transition.
One of the Congress’s most significant moments was the High-Level Roundtable, led by Peru’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Waldir Ayasta, which brought together government and institutional representatives from ten economies across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Throughout the plenary sessions, speakers emphasized that many of the technologies society relies on today—from electric vehicles to artificial intelligence—depend on a greater supply of minerals. In this context, panelists agreed that countries with strong geological potential must enhance their competitiveness, efficiency, and capacity to develop new mining projects.
The discussions also highlighted that the industry’s greatest challenge is no longer limited to the availability of mineral resources, but rather to creating the conditions necessary to attract long-term investment. Legal stability, trust among governments, companies, and communities, innovation, skilled talent, and sustainability were identified as essential factors for capitalizing on the historic opportunity facing the mining sector.
A Unique Opportunity for Peru
For Abraham Chahuan, President of WMC 2026, the true value of the Congress lies in putting its lessons into practice across the industry.
“I hope we return to our companies with new ideas, stronger partnerships, and a renewed commitment to working together. Because the future of mining will not depend solely on what we have discussed this week, but on the actions we take once we leave Lima,” he said.
Meanwhile, Juan Carlos Ortiz, President of the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers (IIMP), highlighted the significance of hosting a world-class event in Peru after 52 years, showcasing the country’s vast geological potential.
“This Congress represents an opportunity to strengthen long-term relationships, showcase Peru’s mining capabilities, and reaffirm our commitment to modern, responsible, and globally connected mining,” he stated during the closing ceremony.
During the closing ceremony, the symbolic WMC lamp was officially handed over to China, which will host the 28th World Mining Congress from June 26 to 28, 2028, in the city of Hefei.
