Team Finland promoting responsible mining in Ecuador

Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. At the same time, the country holds significant mineral resources on par with neighbouring Peru, Colombia, and Chile. The most valuable mineral exports include gold, copper, and silver. Recent favourable development has placed mining as the fastest growing sector, ranking fourth in exports with around 100,000 registered jobs in 2022.

With a growing sector comes increasing challenges such as tailings risking soil and water contamination, energy shortages, and pending permits delaying operations to commence. On the flip side, these challenges present clear opportunities for Finnish technology, service, and energy companies that are positioned to contribute to the development of the Ecuadorian mining sector.

Last week, Finnpartnership, together with Business Finland Latin America and Mining Finland, organised a Team Finland visit to Quito, Ecuador, to promote sustainable mining practices and technologies. The visit was led by H.E. Ambassador of Finland to Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia, Mr. Antti Rytövuori.

Bringing Finnish solutions to the spotlight of the Ecuadorian mining sector

During the week, we hosted a mining seminar together with Chamber of Mines of Ecuador (CME), promoting high-tech and responsible mining. The seminar brought together key stakeholders and included a panel discussion on sustainability in Ecuadorian mining, moderated by Ms. Carolina Orozco, Chairman of the Board of CME. The event was well received by the participants.

The week continued with Team Finland and Mining Finland hosting a stand at the Expominas 2024 conference and trade fair, where Metso, Wärtsilä, Vaisala, Lamor, and AFRY showcased their technologies and solutions.

The visit was not just useful for Team Finland and the Finnish companies, having expanded their networks in Ecuador, but also brough Finnish solutions and Finland to the spotlight of the Ecuadorian mining sector as a responsible partner.

A special thanks to Cámara de Minería del Ecuador and Business Finland Latin America Senior Advisors Nicolas Vassallo and Roberto Requejo for all the support.