Workers at Antofagasta's Centinela mine reject offer, pave way for strike
SANTIAGO - Workers from two unions at Antofagasta Minerals' Centinela copper mine in northern Chile rejected on Monday the company's collective contract offer, paving the way for a strike.
The company and unions must now undergo a mandatory five-day government-led mediation process, which can be extended for another five days by mutual agreement, before a strike can legally begin.
98.73% of unions members voted in favor of a strike, with all eligible members participating in the vote.
The Minera Esperanza and Distrito Centinela unions had urged their members to reject the offer, complaining that Antofagasta Minerals has refused to discuss equalizing benefits for workers regardless of union affiliation.
Antofagasta Minerals does not comment on its collective bargaining negotiations.
Centinela produced 240400 tons of copper in 2025.
