Overview and Key Details
The Mexican Secretariat of Economy has issued three exploration orders granting the National Geology Service (SGM) exclusive authority to conduct investigations for evaluating potential mineral deposits in the states of Sonora, Sinaloa, Durango, and the State of Mexico. This decision is part of the 2023 mining law changes that give the State control over strategic mineral resources.
Formalized in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF), these orders ensure that the SGM has exclusive rights for initial exploration works, distinguishing from previous models reliant on private participation. The designated areas for this purpose—Las Granadas in the State of Mexico, La Soledad in Durango and Sinaloa, and Delia in Sonora—will undergo studies to quantify resources such as gold, copper, silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and tungsten.
Relevance of the National Geology Service
Fernando Aboitiz Saro, head of the Extractive Activities Coordination Unit at the Secretariat of Economy (SE), emphasized that exploring subsurface is crucial for understanding its value and planning the responsible use of essential minerals for modern life.
In a global context of energy transition, Aboitiz Saro highlighted that accurate information about these mineral resources is an economic catalyst, enabling innovation, sustainable development, and territorial planning.
The exploration orders do not constitute mining concessions and have indefinite validity, as reported by the SE.
Key Areas of Exploration
- Las Granadas, State of Mexico: This area will be studied to assess gold, silver, and other valuable mineral deposits.
- La Soledad, Durango and Sinaloa: Exploration will focus on copper, lead, zinc, and other strategic metals.
- Delia, Sonora: This region will be examined for gold, copper, silver, molybdenum, tungsten, and other essential minerals.
Impact on the Mining Industry and Stakeholders
The SGM’s exclusive exploration rights aim to ensure a comprehensive understanding of mineral resources in the targeted states. This knowledge will contribute to responsible mining practices, sustainable development, and informed decision-making for stakeholders.
By taking control of strategic mineral resources, the Mexican government seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection and social well-being. The indefinite validity of the exploration orders reflects this long-term commitment.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of these exploration orders? The primary goal is to evaluate potential mineral deposits and understand their value for responsible use of essential minerals.
- Which states are involved in the exploration? The exploration will take place in Sonora, Sinaloa, Durango, and the State of Mexico.
- Who is conducting the exploration? The National Geology Service (SGM) is responsible for the exploration works.
- What types of minerals will be studied? Gold, copper, silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and tungsten will be assessed in the designated areas.
- Are these exploration orders equivalent to mining concessions? No, the exploration orders do not grant mining concessions and have indefinite validity.
