INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
will help them better control mining activities and fight illegal mining, which has caused serious environmental problems in the country.The
new fee began in June 2025 and applies to almost all mining companies, except for small-scale, artisanal miners.The fee is highest for
companies exploring new mining sites
They now pay up to $11.50 per hectare, which is more than in other Latin American countries.For example, Colombia charges $6.70, Chile
$4.50, and Peru $3 per hectare.Mining companies in Ecuador say this fee is too high, especially for early-stage projects that do not make
money yet.They warn that these costs could stop new projects from starting, which would mean less investment in Ecuador.Mining has become an
In 2024, the government collected over $1 billion in mining taxes, up 218% from 2019.Mining now makes up about 5% of all tax revenue, and
the government expects this share to grow as more projects begin.New Mining Charges in Ecuador Raise Industry Costs and Environmental
set to reach over $4 billion a year, making mining the third-largest export sector by 2025.Despite the economic benefits, illegal mining has
grown quickly and doubled since 2020
This has led to pollution, deforestation, and damage to Indigenous lands.Armed groups have also moved into mining areas, making the
situation even more difficult
The government says the new fee will help pay for better monitoring and environmental protection.Industry groups say the government did not
