Gowling WLG hosts PDAC Argentine delegation

10 March 2016

On March 8, 2016, Gowling WLG hosted the PDAC Argentine delegation to discuss Argentina's recent changes to the regulatory and political environment, as well as the current administration's policies to restore competitiveness in the Argentinean mining industry.

The roundtable included Daniel Meilan, secretary of mining of Argentina, Mario Capello, sub-secretary of mining development, and Alberto Hensel, ministry of mines of the province of San Juan. Opening remarks were given by France Tenaille, a partner at Gowling WLG and co-leader of the firm’s Latin American Group, who also moderated the discussion, and Miguel Morley, president of the Argentine-Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

The event was well attended by members of the mining, energy and legal industries, as well as government officials. The discussion revolved around the opportunities and challenges facing the government and the industry at the provincial and federal level.

The panelists spoke candidly about the new regulations and emphasized the importance of community consultation and obtaining social licence prior to development. Every member of the panel agreed that greater education was a key factor in changing the perception of the mining industry, and that Argentina is committed to making great strides in this field. Finally, Meilan underlined the need for foreign investment and noted that as Argentina wants to make mining a priority going forward, it will require the involvement of the global mining industry.

When the floor was opened to questions, the conversation turned to renewable energy, nuclear development, and the need for mine monitoring and maintenance to avoid environmental disasters. Ultimately, this event confirmed that Argentina is open to opportunities and that mining is taking centre stage!

Gowling WLG’s Latin America Group has an in-depth understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges in the region. We take a practical, results-driven approach to advising Canadian and international clients investing in Latin America - as well as Latin American companies investing in Canada, the UK and beyond.


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