The Ventanas smelter has been the target of criticism from social and environmental groups that accuse it of contributing to heavy pollution in the Quintero area.

The projected returns are slightly better than the output Newcrest had predicted in a pre-feasibility study released last year.

The mine, located in central Chile about 350 kilometers north of Santiago, produced about 15,000 tonnes of copper in the quarter ended June 30.

The continuous protest actions have led Minera Las Bambas to announce that probably “within a week” it will have to halt production at its namesake copper mine.

EcuaCorriente said the closure is a precautionary measure while protests against an end to government fuel subsidies continue across the country.

Peru's largest copper minefield, has declared "partial" force majeure.

The world’s second-largest bullion producer is working with advisers to solicit interest for the Lumwana mine.