Peru was forecast to produce 345,000 tonnes of copper this year which would make it the non- socialist world’s sixth largest producer. Peru produces about 4.8% of the free world’s copper.
The miners are demanding better wages and benefits, and wider collective bargaining rights. Many miners earn less than $2.50(US) per week.
Executives at Peruvian mines expect the strike to gain moderate support in the first few days, but if it spreads and continues for several weeks, they fear that it may cripple the industry.
“Our fear is that it could become like last year’s strikes. If it drags on, pressure will grow on non-strikers to stop working,” said a labor relations manager at one company. “The final impact will depend on how long it lasts.”
Copper, zinc and lead mining account for more than half of Peru’s export earnings.
Peru is not the only producer suffering from labor trouble. Canada’s Highland Valley copper mine in British Columbia is also shut down by a strike. Production is also disrupted at the Bougainville mine in Papua New Guinea because of terrorist attacks.
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