"Volcan shareholder aims for more acquisitions in Peru: What minerals is he looking at?"

The recent acquisition of shares in Volcan Compañía Minera by Integra Capital marks a crucial moment in the Peruvian mining sector. José Luis Manzano, president and founder of the Argentine venture capital firm, has expressed his ambition to consolidate his company's presence in the Andean country. With an eye on new horizons, Manzano has stated that they are evaluating various investment opportunities ranging from copper to minerals such as lithium, zinc, and lead. This diversification of interests could transform the mining landscape in Peru, a country already recognized for its wealth of natural resources.

During a recent conversation, Manzano highlighted Peru's cultural affinity and mining experience as key factors that have attracted Integra Capital. "Our intention is not just to invest, but also to attract talent and explore new possibilities, including rare earths," he commented. This statement underscores Integra's strategy of not limiting itself to acquisition, but also focusing on innovation and sustainable development in the sector.

One of the most notable projects is the construction of the Romina project, which is part of Volcan and is projected with an investment of 160 million dollars. This project is expected to begin production in 2026 or 2027, reflecting Integra's confidence in the long-term potential of mining in the region. Manzano emphasized that future acquisitions will be considerably more expensive, indicating the seriousness of their intentions in the Peruvian market.

However, Integra's focus is not limited solely to mineral extraction. Manzano's interest in the recently inaugurated Chancay port also highlights a desire to transform the logistical infrastructure into a strategic hub. "My dream is for it to become a space where large technology companies, like Amazon and Google, can establish themselves and work collaboratively," he expressed. This plan aims not only to boost mining but also to foster an ecosystem of innovation and technology in the region.

The political context in Argentina, under the presidency of Javier Milei, also influences these strategic decisions. Manzano noted that the implemented policies have allowed Argentine companies to regain access to the New York capital markets, revitalizing the flow of investments into the mining sector. "In the last six months, we have seen mining investments exceeding 12 billion dollars," he commented, referring to significant projects from major multinationals like Rio Tinto and BHP.

The intersection of mining and technology has also become a recurring topic in Integra's approach. Manzano indicated that the growing demand for minerals for semiconductor manufacturing, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, represents an unprecedented opportunity. "The key lies in the human talent we can develop in local markets," he added, suggesting that the creation of data centers and sustainable energy production are steps towards a more integrated future between technology and mining.

Nonetheless, the Argentine businessman has been clear that maintaining an exclusive focus on commodity exports is not enough. The integration of technology into business strategies has become essential. Manzano has utilized artificial intelligence tools in his business approach, highlighting how these can break down barriers in the decision-making process. "Sometimes the role of technology in our strategies is underestimated, but it has been fundamental in my arrival in Peru," he explained.

As Integra Capital delves further into the Peruvian market, attention will focus on how the company can balance resource exploitation with sustainability and innovation. Plans for expansion into strategic minerals and the intention to collaborate in the development of a technological hub suggest a promising future both for the company and for the mining economy of the country. José Luis Manzano's vision is not just about acquiring and producing, but also about transforming the industrial and technological landscape of Peru.

Thus, Integra's future in Peru will depend on dynamic management that combines mining tradition with technological modernity. With a firm gaze towards the future, Manzano is willing to take risks that could redefine how mining is understood and managed in the region, leading Peru into a new chapter in its rich mining history.