In a major step toward accelerating project development, Chile’s Congress has passed legislation to cut mining and energy permitting times by as much as 70%, aiming to unlock investment and maintain the country’s leadership in global copper and lithium markets.
The bill, which passed with 93 votes in favour, 27 against, and 17 abstentions, reforms more than 40 sectoral regulations and now awaits the president’s final approval to become law.
Faster Permits, Same Standards
The government says the changes will reduce approval timelines by 30% to 70% without compromising environmental safeguards or regulatory oversight.
“This will allow us to substantially reduce permitting times while maintaining our regulatory rigour,” said Economy Minister Nicolás Grau.
The move comes after years of mounting pressure from mining and renewable energy stakeholders who warned that lengthy permitting processes—sometimes stretching over 12 years—were deterring billions in potential investment.
Industry Response
Jorge Riesco, president of the National Mining Society (SONAMI), welcomed the reform but cautioned that further improvements are needed:
“We appreciate the work of the Ministry of Economy and other stakeholders, but this should be seen as the beginning of a deeper transformation.”
The reform is expected to be particularly impactful in Antofagasta, the mining-rich region in northern Chile, where faster permitting is expected to drive both regional growth and national economic planning.
“Improved permitting timelines not only accelerate project delivery, but also offer long-term certainty for strategic investment,” noted Matías Muñoz, Regional Secretary of Economy.
Digital-First Approach: The SUPER Platform
At the core of the reform is the institutionalization of SUPER, a new mandatory digital platform that centralizes the permit application process. This “one-stop shop” will provide:
- Real-time case tracking
- Full traceability of applications
- Interoperability across government agencies
The platform will work in tandem with a newly established Sectoral Authorizations and Investment Office, responsible for coordinating, advising, and modernizing the permitting process.
Chile’s Mining Outlook Remains Strong
Despite recent fluctuations in copper output, Chile remains the world’s largest copper producer. According to Cochilco, the country’s state copper commission, Chile’s share of global copper production is expected to rise from 23.6% in 2024 to 27.3% by 2034.
With lithium demand also soaring, this streamlined permitting system positions Chile to better compete for green energy investments and maintain its central role in the global clean energy transition.