TORONTO – First Quantum Minerals Ltd. says the government of Panama will authorize the removal and processing of certain materials at the Cobre Panamá copper mine.
The Toronto-based miner says it is awaiting formal approval to carry out the activities in co-ordination with the government of Panama.
First Quantum CEO Tristan Pascall says in a release that the move marks a positive step, but that it does not constitute a reopening of the mine.
Pascall says First Quantum remains committed to dialogue to achieve a resolution at the Cobre mine.
The company says the processing of ore stockpiles at the mine will mitigate environmental and operational risks associated with acid rock drainage.
In July of last year, First Quantum Minerals announced that shipments of copper concentrate had begun leaving the contentious mine in Panama that had been shuttered.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 15, 2026.
Companies in this story: (TSX:FM)
