“These figures reflect the impact of mining industry as well as its role as the main income source for the majority of the population,” said the MEM Mining Promotion Director Henry Luna.

According to the book entitled ‘Peruvian Mining: Contribution to Economic and Social Development” in 2009 -written by the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers (IIMP) and revised by MEM- mining workers enjoy higher salaries compared to other sectors, according to information issued by Peru’s National Statistics Institute (INEI).

In 2009, large and medium mining industry -which usually demands advanced technology- accounted for 87.39 percent of salary earners, whereas small mining industry and handcrafted mining industry represented 11.64 percent (14,659 people) and 0.97 percent (1,224 people) respectively.

Moreover, mining companies have employed some 6,106 women for the mines in regions such as Madre de Dios (16.66 percent), Cusco (13.72 percent) and Apurímac (13.61 percent).

However, most female employees tend to work in Cajamarca (1,025), Arequipa (658) and Junín (538).