A few months before presenting at PERUMIN 36, BHP, one of the largest mining companies in the world, announces its expectations for the mining convention, its new corporate growth plans and its commitment to community development. Carlos Ávila, BHP's Joint Venture President, is convinced that the company is always open to opportunities that may arise to strengthen and expand its presence in Peru.

Why did BHP decide to participate again in PERUMIN Mining Convention?

BHP considers it very important to be present at a new edition of PERUMIN, one of the most important mining conventions in Latin America. Last year we had a great experience with our delegation: it was the first time we attended PERUMIN and we witnessed firsthand the opportunity to connect with partners, learn more about our peers in the industry and interact with the entire mining ecosystem. In addition, we were able to tell what BHP is and show what we have to offer the country as one of the largest natural resource companies in the world. Being once again at PERUMIN means reaffirming our interest in working together with the industry in the development of new mining projects.

How has PERUMIN contributed to the achievement of the mining company's objectives?

PERUMIN is a unique showcase for industry players. Undoubtedly our participation in 2022 helped us to make our presence visible and show the interest that BHP has in Peru. In addition, it gave us a very enriching look at the development of the Peruvian mining industry, as well as first-hand knowledge of its main aspirations and challenges. We believe that Peru can strengthen its position as one of the world's leading mining players and, as a company, we want to be part of that process.

How do you demonstrate your commitment to modern and responsible mining?

Our commitment has been translated into concrete actions. For example, in Chile we have been pioneers in desalination, with more than US$ 4 billion invested in the last 15 years. This has allowed us to operate sites such as Escondida, which is the largest copper producer in the world, exclusively with seawater. Another example is the use of renewable energies to power our operations. Thanks to the early termination of fossil fuel-based contracts - at a cost of US$780 million - Spence and Escondida now operate 100% on clean energy.

These are examples of our conviction that mining responsibly and with high socio-environmental standards is the only possible way to do business and develop projects.

What are BHP's advances in gender equity and local job creation?

BHP can also share its experience in diversity and inclusion in the industry. Our company is a leader in incorporating female talent and members of indigenous communities in the different activities we develop. In the Americas alone, we have 33.4% female representation and 8.7% of members of indigenous communities.

For BHP, mining is not only technological innovation, project development, and respect for the environment, but also involves reflecting the society of which we are a part in our company.

What growth plans will you develop in Peru in the short term?

BHP has a global growth plan in which copper plays a fundamental role. We want to continue growing and developing new mining businesses, so collaborating with mining countries, such as Peru, is a central part of our business strategy.

Last year, precisely at PERUMIN, we announced a major investment in Peru to strengthen our exploration activities. We are currently focused on the development of these projects, which not only involve working in the search for new deposits, but also in executing a Social Value policy with the communities and indigenous peoples.

What projects are they aiming to develop to expand BHP's presence in the country?

In Peru we are present in the regions of Apurimac, Huancavelica, Ayacucho, Arequipa, Ancash and Cusco. In addition, a few months ago we received permission to do our first exploration at Jatum Orcco, and we are already seeing some very positive developments. In addition, without being operators of the site, we own 33.75% of Antamina's property.

We are always open to opportunities that may arise to strengthen and expand our presence in Peru, a country where we have been for more than 20 years through our participation in Antamina.

From BHP's perspective, how important is copper to the world today?

Copper is a critical mineral for the future. It is essential to make progress in the decarbonization of the planet, to enable the energy transition and to help address climate change. Without copper, it is not possible to think of a modern, developed world.

In this scenario, demand for copper will rise steadily, which opens a unique window of opportunity for mining companies and, above all, for copper-producing countries. Peru has a very important geological wealth, so it is in a privileged position to provide the copper that the modern world needs. At BHP we want to be partners in this path to the future.