Peru to create fund to incentivize small-scale mining
Peru’s government will create a “mining fund” set to finance incentives for small and artisan miners, the Andean country’s energy and mining minister Jorge Montero said on Wednesday.


We are announcing in a few weeks the launch of a mining fund for small-scale and artisanal mining,” Montero said during a press briefing on the company’s upcoming initiatives. “This fund is designed to provide critical financial support and technical assistance to miners who have traditionally operated outside of formal financial and industrial systems. By doing so, we aim to bridge the gap between informal mining operations and the broader, more sustainable extractive economy.”
According to Montero, the fund will offer a range of support services, including access to low-interest loans, modern mining tools, safety training programs, and capacity-building workshops. “These miners will benefit from preferential rates on equipment and materials, as well as improved access to distribution channels that can significantly enhance the value they receive for their output,” he added.
The initiative is expected to have a transformative impact on communities where artisanal mining is a primary source of income. “We’re not just looking at this from a financial standpoint — this is about fostering inclusive economic growth, promoting environmental responsibility, and helping formalize a sector that supports millions of families globally,” Montero explained. “By equipping these miners with the tools and knowledge they need, we are also helping to reduce the environmental impact of their activities and improving safety standards across the board.”
He emphasized that the fund will work in close coordination with local governments, NGOs, and community leaders to ensure that the support reaches those most in need. “Our goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where small-scale miners are no longer marginalized, but instead become empowered participants in the industry’s value chain,” Montero concluded.