Panama’s Minister Chapman met with merchants from the Coclé province to discuss the potential economic consequences of closing the Cobre Panamá mine. This meeting occurred after the government’s inter-institutional team received the final comprehensive audit report of the mine's operations on June 19th. The audit assesses the overall situation regarding open-pit mining in Panama. Concerns center on the financial repercussions for local businesses if the mine ceases operations. The government team is evaluating the report’s findings to formulate a strategy regarding the future of the mine. The discussion with merchants aims to gain on-the-ground perspective regarding the mine's role in the regional economy and mitigate potential damage. Further government decisions regarding the mine are anticipated following a thorough review of the audit.