World's Largest Copper Mine Faces Strike as Labor Disputes Mount

Key Facts

1Supervisors at BHP’s Escondida, the world's largest copper mine, announced a strike after government-led mediation failed.

2Workers at Antofagasta’s Centinela mine have been on strike since October 7.

Supervisors at BHP’s Escondida, the world's largest copper mine, announced a strike after government-led mediation failed to produce a labor contract. OilPrice.com reported that the walkout adds to existing supply disruptions in Chile, as workers at Antofagasta’s Centinela mine have also been on strike since October 7.

Antofagasta (ANFGF) shares closed at $48.87 on October 13, 2026, as markets assess the impact of labor unrest on global supply chains. According to S&P Global, copper demand is projected to reach 42 million metric tons by 2040, while Chile's national output already fell 12.8% in August, marking its lowest monthly level since February 2011.