The Minister of Mines and Energy, María Nohemí Arboleda, announced in Cartagena the repeal of 10 resolutions that defined the Special Mining Districts in Colombia. This decision aims to reactivate mining exploration, recover investment, and modify the regulatory framework of these areas.
During the National Mining Congress 2026, Arboleda emphasized that the repeal does not affect acquired rights, since the delimitations were not executed. She also described the economic impact of the industry, highlighting that foreign direct investment in mining fell from USD 1.508 billion to USD 178 million and that royalties from the sector decreased by 34% between 2022 and 2025.
The minister stated that the decision was made after technical evaluations and extensive dialogue in a working group. She emphasized that “this decision has future effects, and does not affect the rights of any citizen because nothing was executed for us to be at ease”.
The Special Mining Districts were intended for socio-environmental planning and achieving sustainability in regions with mining projects. Their objectives included the formalization of small miners and the development of strategic plans to manage mining activity more responsibly.
Arboleda also asserted the need to rebuild trust in the industry, arguing that “a mining country cannot be decreed from a ministry; it has to be built with each one of you.” Additionally, she defended the role of mining in the energy transition and questioned the dichotomy between green and conventional energy.
From the mining sector, there was a call for a favorable regulatory framework and an increase in investment, with projections to mobilize USD 4.7 billion in three years. Industry representatives emphasized the importance of overcoming legal obstacles and improving security in mining territories.
Source: www.infobae.com
