Panama’s trade and industry ministry has made the decision to cancel Orla Mining’s concessions for the Cerro Quema project, following the recent moratorium on mining concessions passed by Panama’s unicameral congress in response to widespread protests.
The cancellation has left Orla Mining uncertain about the future of its investments in the country, particularly since it has already committed $120 million to the project. This move by the Panamanian government underscores the escalating tensions between mining companies and local communities who are concerned about the environmental and social impacts of mining activities.