In September 2026, the Kast government promoted rare earth mining as part of a geopolitical strategy linked to the Shield of the Americas and the energy transition. Minister Daniel Mas highlighted four active projects valued at US$158 million. On 22 September, Chile joined the Shield of the Americas, which includes securing control of rare earths.
In June, the Biobío Environmental Assessment Commission approved Aclara Resources’ RCA in Penco, but in September the Municipality of Concepción challenged the resolution due to impacts on the Andalién River and lack of citizen participation. On 16 September, the SEA declared the municipal appeal inadmissible. The declaration of inadmissibility extends into the future, limiting the ability to challenge decisions. In parallel, organizations in Ñuble declared the region “on alert” due to more than 71 rare earth mining concessions, and residents of San Rosendo requested certainty about exploration concessions.
This event has a negative impact on the enabling environment, as it reflects a pattern of government promotion of rare earth mining with limitations on citizen participation. The most affected actors are the communities of Penco, Concepción, Ñuble, and San Rosendo, who see mining projects approved without adequate participation and with limitations on their ability to challenge decisions.