Unionized Workers Halt Operations at Orla Mining’s Camino Rojo Gold Mine in Mexico

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Operations at Orla Mining’s Camino Rojo gold mine in Zacatecas, Mexico, have been temporarily suspended after unionized workers initiated a work stoppage and blocked access to the site on June 1. The company described the action as illegal.

According to Orla Mining, the dispute stems from negotiations over a worker productivity bonus and a profit-sharing entitlement. The company said it had already paid employees the maximum profit-sharing amount required under Mexican law. However, workers alleged that the payment is insufficient.

Meanwhile, Orla confirmed that all critical equipment necessary for maintaining operational safety and environmental compliance remains functional. Also, the company is currently engaged in discussions with union representatives to resolve the dispute at the earliest so that mining activities can be resumed safely.

The company is yet to assess the potential impacts of the disruption on its 2026 production guidance.

Camino Rojo produced 96,764 ounces of gold in 2025 and 18,221 ounces during the first quarter of 2026. The company has proposed an underground expansion project at the mine at an investment of approximately US$608 million.