Minera Antucoya workers reject offer and announce legal strike starting October 16

Unionized workers at Minera Antucoya, part of Antofagasta Minerals, overwhelmingly rejected the company’s latest collective bargaining offer and confirmed a legal strike beginning October 16 after a mediation process yielded no progress.

Antofagasta, Chile. The Workers’ Union of Minera Antucoya, part of Antofagasta Minerals (AMSA), reaffirmed its unity and determination in the ongoing collective bargaining process after rejecting the company’s latest offer during massive assemblies held both on-site and online.

According to the union, the offer “remains insufficient and does not reflect the commitment, effort, and professionalism” of the workers who sustain the operation daily. As a result, members decided to move forward with a legal strike if the company fails to present a satisfactory proposal by Thursday, October 16 — marking what would be Antucoya’s second legal strike under AMSA.

Overwhelming rejection and stalled mediation

The union’s discontent had already been made clear on September 30, when 99.71% of members voted against the company’s previous offer, with 100% participation.

Negotiations began on August 8, and despite a mediation process before Chile’s Labor Directorate — involving proposals and counterproposals — union leaders say the company “remained firm in its position.”

Union President César García said the latest proposal, presented on September 23, was rejected both by the bargaining committee and again in recent assemblies.

“The proposal is insufficient because it does not meet the legitimate aspirations of workers regarding fixed and variable pay, nor the end-of-negotiation bonus,” García stated.
“If there are no real advances, on October 16 we will begin our second legal strike within the AMSA group.”

Corporate recognition vs. worker reality

The union highlighted a striking contrast between the company’s public image and its treatment of workers. In November 2024, Minera Antucoya received the Carlos Vial Espantoso Foundation’s Triple Impact Award, recognizing its commitment to employee well-being and social responsibility.

“Today, that recognition contrasts with the reality faced by its own workforce, who once again must reach the limit to make their voices heard,” the union said in a statement.