Peru's Informal Miners Clash with Government Over Permit Program

Thousands of informal miners in Peru are protesting against the government's efforts to end a temporary permit program, known as REINFO, that allows small-scale mining. Union leader Maximo Franco Bequer seeks negotiation with Congress as miners demand a five-year extension. The situation is complicated by upcoming general elections.

More than a thousand informal miners in Peru gathered outside Congress on Tuesday, reigniting protests against government plans to end the temporary REINFO permit program. The government seeks to regularize small-scale miners, but protesters argue that full compliance is complicated and expensive.

The government has deferred the scheme's expiration multiple times, with Congress now considering an extension to 2027. This debate unfolds as lawmakers face re-election, and formal mining firms worry that concessions could exacerbate illegal activities.

Union leader Maximo Franco Bequer is advocating for continued negotiations, after meeting with President Jose Jeri. Peru's gold exports rose significantly, yet an estimated 40% is reportedly of illegal origin.

(With inputs from agencies.)