The Peruvian Congress has approved an extension of the formalization process for small-scale and artisanal mining, which has sparked significant debate. The new legislation, passed late on Friday by

A Peruvian congressional committee on Friday took an initial step to extend a scheme that allows temporary permits to be given to small-scale informal miners, controversial due to accusations by opponents that it has been misused to expand illegal mining.

Peru’s Congress voted late on Friday to extend for six months a controversial permit that allows informal mines to operate in the country.