Chile-based Codelco’s output dropped by 11pc to 155,200mt in November 2019, from the prior year, while output of BHP Billiton’s Escondida fell by 1.5pc to 103,200mt, according to Chile state copper agency Cochilco.
The decline in production at the Chilean mines is attributed to months of riots, mass protests, strikes and road blockades coupled with internal upgrades and maintenance at individual mines. Miners have adopted a wait-and-watch approach that is likely to impact the investment decisions by many mining companies operating in Chile.