Archive · 22 Jan 2026
Panama-Canada Dispute Over Copper Mine
Panama and Canada are arguing about a big copper mine called Cobre Panama.
The mine was closed in 2023 because Panama's Supreme Court said it wasn't allowed.
The Canadian company that runs the mine, First Quantum, wants to start processing some of the copper that's already been dug up.
Panama's president will decide by June if the mine can reopen.
The mine is important because it helps Panama's economy a lot, but some people are worried about the environment.
Chile's president-elect has offered to help Panama with the mine.
First Quantum is also working on other mines and expects to produce a lot of copper in the next few years.
Panama's Supreme Court closed the Cobre Panama copper mine in 2023 due to an unconstitutional government concession.
First Quantum, the Canadian operator, proposes processing stockpiled ore but not fully reopening the mine.
Panama's president will decide by June 2024 whether to reopen the mine, which accounted for 5% of Panama's GDP in 2023.
Chile's president-elect has offered assistance, potentially lending credibility due to Chile's status as the world's largest copper producer.
First Quantum expects to produce 413,000 to 479,000 tons of copper in 2026 from other mines, with potential processing of stockpiled ore at Cobre Panama.
- Who
- Panama and Canada (First Quantum Minerals)
- What
- Dispute over the reopening of the Cobre Panama copper mine
- When
- Decision to be announced by June 2024
- Where
- Panama
- Why
- Economic benefits vs. environmental and constitutional concerns
- Mine Name
- Cobre Panama
- Operator
- First Quantum (Canadian company)
- Closure Date
- 2023
- Reason for Closure
- Unconstitutional government concession
- Economic Impact
- 5% of Panama's GDP in 2023
- Global Supply Impact
- Nearly 2% of global copper supply
- Decision Deadline
- June 2024
- Proposed Action
- Removal and processing of stockpiled ore