The world’s largest copper producer Codelco was forced to shut down operations at its Chuquicamata mine after contract workers launched protests demanding better salaries and improved working conditions.

Miners from Chile’s largest copper union, CTC, which represents around 40,000 workers, put up barriers to block access to roads leading to various Codelco mining sites.

The fresh wave of demonstrations took place after a breakdown in negotiations between labor representatives and Codelco management officials.

“Our workers engaged in labor actions after Codelco failed to meet worker demand following months of talks and negotiations in order to solve the labor conflict,” the CTC stated Wednesday.

The company has refused to increase subcontractor salaries, claiming it will result in financial losses as copper prices fall, according to the union.

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Telesur