BHP’s Escondida copper mine in Chile set for worker strike

Supervisors at BHP Group's Escondida copper mine in Chile are set to initiate a strike on Wednesday after government-mediated negotiations over a new collective labor contract were unsuccessful, according to the union. The work stoppage, scheduled to commence at 8 a.m. local time, aims to disrupt supplies as the industry faces challenges in expanding production.

The union, representing over 1,000 supervisors and professional staff, has rejected BHP's latest contract offer, with nearly 95% of participating members voting in favor of strike action. The dispute revolves around wages, bonuses, working conditions, and proposed changes to employees' duties and shift arrangements. The union contends that the company's proposal does not adequately acknowledge workers' contributions to the mine's profitability.

The impending strike adds to concerns over Chilean copper supply, as a separate labor dispute at Antofagasta Minerals' Centinela copper mine further heightens apprehensions about disruptions at these two major operations. This has consequently bolstered global copper prices.