A note on copper exploration in the Central Andes

Abstract

This article, based on a presentation at the Metal Bulletin's 16th International Copper Conference in Algarve, Portugal, February 2003, examines the success of basic copper exploration carried out during the last three decades in Argentina, Chile and Peru. The paper is based on data published in different specialized mining books or magazines. It mainly includes those discoveries important at a world or regional scale, not the lesser discoveries important at the local scale. The economic impact of these discoveries is presented here regarding the exploration expenditures, the value of the mineral resources identified, the investments and metals production generated. It finalizes with a review of expected future trends for the Central Andes region.

Keywords:

• Copper
• Exploration
• Central Andes
• Main Discoveries
• Economic Results