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Ecuador mineral exports could fall by some 20% this year, recover next year-official

Ecuador's mineral exports might fall by some 20% yearonyear, mining viceminister Rebeca Illescas told a market conference on Tuesday, as power cuts and hold-ups in giving export licenses struck output.

Ecuador's worst drought in over 60 years has actually plunged the hydropower-dependent country into an energy crisis as reduced tanks leave hydroelectric dams offline, pushing the federal government to impose power cuts.

There will be a fall, Illescas said. I expect it will be a minimum of 20% compared to in 2015.

Output will recuperate next year, she said.

Mining exports were worth $3.3 billion for Ecuador in 2023.

The Mirador copper mine is running at about half of its capability, Illescas said. Mirador's operator said in August they expect to invest about $650 million into the second phase of the job over 3 years.

Mirador has had energy problems for more than 30 days and considering that about 10 days ago they are at half capability, Illescas said.

Mirador operator Ecuacorriente, an unit of Chinese consortium CRCC-Tongguan Financial investment Co Ltd, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Canadian miner Lumina Gold will establish a gold task in the coastal province of El Oro, Illescas included, with production set to start in 2026.

(source: Reuters)