Codelco and NTT DATA Sign Strategic Alliance to Accelerate Digital and Sustainable Transformation of Future Mining

The agreement will enable the exploration and implementation of cutting-edge technologies — namely, advanced innovations that transform the industry and address global challenges, such as artificial intelligence and advanced connectivity networks, among others — with a focus on safety, sustainability, and the development of new capabilities. 

NTT DATA and Codelco (National Copper Corporation of Chile), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) marking the beginning of a strategic alliance aimed at driving future mining. The agreement seeks to integrate emerging technologies and advanced solutions that strengthen automation, safety, and sustainability in the operations of the world's leading copper producer. 

This agreement was signed at NTT DATA's global headquarters in Tokyo by Máximo Pacheco, Chairman of CODELCO's Board of Directors, and Miguel Teixeira, CEO Iberia, International Organisations, LATAM and Consulting in Benelux and France at NTT DATA, Inc. 

Yutaka Sasaki, President and CEO of NTT DATA, attended the signing as a witness to acknowledge the collaboration between both parties. The MoU encompasses a wide range of collaboration areas, including advanced connectivity and digital infrastructure (5G/6G, photonic and satellite networks), generative artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing, autonomous operations, and clean technologies, among others. 

Potential joint initiatives will be implemented progressively through a cooperation model that promotes knowledge transfer, open innovation, and the creation of shared value between both organizations, combining NTT DATA's global cutting-edge experience and capabilities to transform industrial processes with Codelco's mining expertise. 

"The future of mining is built through alliances that allow us to learn, innovate, and adopt cutting-edge technologies to maintain our leading role globally. Every step we take in innovation serves a greater purpose: to strengthen Codelco as a pillar of sustainable development in Chile and the world," highlighted Máximo Pacheco, Chairman of Codelco's Board of Directors. 
"This alliance with Codelco represents a unique opportunity to combine our technological experience with the leadership of one of the world's most important mining companies. Together, we will drive a new era of innovation and efficiency in global mining," emphasized Miguel Teixeira, CEO Iberia, International Organisations, LATAM and Consulting in Benelux and France at NTT DATA, Inc.  
"Improving safety and productivity within the mining industry is fundamental. NTT DATA will help address these challenges by providing a comprehensive R&D framework that incorporates generative AI, autonomous control of robots, operational understanding through digital twins, and process productivity improvement using quantum computing," added Yutaka Sasaki, President and CEO, NTT DATA. "We look forward to collaboratively advancing the product." 
The agreement includes a governance structure with strategic committees and technical coordination teams responsible for evaluating challenges and opportunities, as well as prioritizing and overseeing the execution of programs and projects.

About Codelco

Codelco is the world's largest copper producer, specializing in the exploration, development, and extraction of mineral resources. It processes these resources to produce refined copper and by-products, which are then marketed to customers worldwide.

Since the nationalization of copper in 1971, Codelco has contributed over $158 billion to the Chilean state (adjusted to 2023 values).

The company operates seven major mining divisions in Chile: Chuquicamata, Ministro Hales, Radomiro Tomic, Gabriela Mistral, Salvador, Andina, and El Teniente, in addition to the Ventanas Refinery. Codelco also maintains commercial offices in the United Kingdom, United States, China, and Singapore.