Chile is emerging as the anchor market for desalination in Latin America, with over $18 billion committed to projects, largely fueled by the copper mining sector's growing water demand. According to industry data, the country operates 11 desalination plants with a combined capacity of 6,472 liters per second, primarily serving industrial users. Seawater now accounts for more than 30% of total mining water use, reflecting a significant shift in water sourcing.
Latin America as a whole has seen over $20 billion committed to desalination projects, with more than 25 new regional projects under development. Peru is also actively promoting six new seawater desalination plants to expand access to drinking water. These developments underscore the region's accelerating deployment of desalination technology to address water scarcity and industrial needs.
The 8th International Congress "Desalination Latin America 2026" will be held in Santiago, Chile, on June 17-18, 2026, organized by Vostock Capital. The event will bring together CEOs of leading businesses in the region's desalination sector. The Ministry of Mining from Chile has officially supported the congress, which is also sponsored by companies such as LG Chem, Soltex, Mining Company Curacao – MMC, and International Valve.
Globally, more than 17,000 desalination plants produce around 107 million cubic meters per day, supplying water to over 300 million people. Latin America's investment momentum highlights the region's growing role in the global desalination market. For more information, visit the Vostock Capital newsroom.
