Sneak Preview: Mergers & Acquisitions in Mining Tech with Ivan Gustavino
In this sneak preview, Ax Legal’s Managing Partner Cody McFarlane speaks with Ivan Gustavino, Managing Director at Atrico, who has advised over 100 high-growth companies in mining, industrial tech, and software. With M&A activity heating up, Ivan breaks down what investors and buyers really look for in mining technology companies today.
Chile is one of the most attractive markets in Latin America for mining and industrial technology companies. It is also a market where small operational mistakes can create real delays. On paper, entry is simple. In practice, what matters is how you set up and run the business from day one. Here is what actually makes a difference.
There has been a race in Chile among Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology providers to reach commercial scale. While Chile remains the world’s second-largest lithium producer, its position is increasingly challenged by Argentina. Albemarle’s US$3.1 billion project is set to be the first DLE project at scale in the country, and if it proves more sustainable than traditional evaporation ponds, it could unlock the next wave of projects and investment in Chile.
Chile’s mining sector is starting to build real momentum again. In the past few weeks, the two largest projects submitted to Chile’s Environmental Assessment Service (SEA) since at least 1992 have been filed: a US$7.5 billion expansion by Freeport-McMoRan and a US$5.1 billion project from BHP.
Mining in Chile often centers on the largest players, but medium-sized operations are just as critical — and operate under tighter margins and capital constraints. In this segment, improvements in water efficiency, recovery, or asset availability are not incremental upgrades; they are strategic drivers of competitiveness. A November 2025 study provides a practical roadmap showing where the right technologies can make a measurable impact.
It is very common for foreign companies in the industrial sectors to send specialists into Chile for short, focused periods to help with commissioning, supervision, installation, or troubleshooting. It is important for foreign companies to understand how to send technical and project staff to Chile, the differences between work permits and work visas and the common pitfalls to avoid.
Chile plays a central role in global copper supply. A clear overview of the countries 2025–2034 mining investment pipeline, highlighting what has changed, which projects are driving growth, and the opportunities emerging for mining suppliers and technology companies.
Santiago
Sydney
Lima