La Loma, June 9, 2025
The most recent edition of the Mining Compass perception survey, conducted by Jaime Arteaga & Asociados and the National Consulting Center, reveals a broadly positive view of the role of mining in regional development, particularly in the departments of Cesar and Magdalena, where Drummond Ltd. operates.
Mining companies received a favorable assessment in terms of regulatory, labor and safety compliance: 86% in Cesar and 75% in Magdalena recognize them as a source of decent employment.
86% and 87% of respondents from Cesar and Magdalena respectively consider that welldone mining brings development to the regions where it operates. In addition, 90% of inhabitants in Cesar and 91% in Magdalena believe that mining can benefit communities. Meanwhile, 8 out of 10 people in these departments consider mining positive for their municipality.
The perception of economic dependence is also significant: 73% of the inhabitants of Caesar and 55% of those of Magdalena believe that the economy of their regions would worsen if mining companies ceased to operate.
Regarding social commitment, 77% of the inhabitants of Cesar and 65% in Magdalena perceive mining companies as respectful of local culture and traditions. Likewise, 71% in Cesar and 64% in Magdalena consider that the companies are committed to Community progress.
“These results reflect not only the economic impact of mining in the Colombian Caribbean, but also the growing recognition by communities that this activity can and should be a force for sustainable development,” said José Miguel Linares, president of Drummond Ltd.
Trust in mining companies remains high: 67% of respondents in Cesar and 49% in Magdalena said they trusted these companies. Similarly, 81% of respondents in Cesar and 80% in Magdalena believe that mining can be done in an environmentally friendly manner.
The Social License index in Cesar reached a level of 0.84 in 2025, improving over the previous year (0.83), and surpassing that recorded in Magdalena (0.75). This development demonstrates a strong connection between mining companies and the surrounding communities, especially in territories of direct influence.
These data underline the commitment of the mining industry, and in particular of Drummond Ltd., which enjoys 93% favorability in its area of influence in Caesar, and 91% in Magdalena, highlighting its transparent, accountable operation aligned with the expectations and aspirations of local communities.