The Panamanian government has decided to process and export the remaining rock material at the copper mine in Donoso, Colón province. This decision aims to reduce environmental risks and resolve pending issues related to the mine's closure. President José Raúl Mulino announced this during his annual address to the nation, stating that thousands of tons of rock were extracted before the mining operation was suspended and that their prolonged presence poses an environmental risk if not properly managed. Mulino instructed the Ministries of Trade and Industry, Economy and Finance, and Environment to coordinate the process under strict technical, environmental, and legal parameters. This measure does not imply the reopening of the mine, which has been suspended since late 2023 following a Supreme Court ruling that declared the contract with the operator unconstitutional. The future of the mine will depend on the results of an ongoing audit and the opinion of international experts. The president emphasized that Panama is adopting best international practices in responsible mining. In 2025, over 122,000 tons of stored copper concentrate were exported, generating more than $29 million in royalties for the state. The revenue from the rock sale will be invested in roads, education, health, the environment, employment, and support for entrepreneurs.
