Cerro Matoso reduced its operations by 25% starting July 1 due to a natural gas supply restriction by Canacol Energy.
Canacol restricted supply to 7,000 MBtu, representing a 55% cut in contracted gas. The measure affects a contract valid until 2029.
The Colombian Federation of Coal warned that the decision could trigger a domino effect in Córdoba, with a potential 50% drop in coal supply, equivalent to 90,000 fewer tons per year.
Carlos Cante, executive president of Fenalcarbón, said the restriction compromises a key industrial operation and threatens jobs and investment in the region.
Cerro Matoso stated it participated in good faith in Canadian dialogues but rejected Canacol’s proposals due to disproportionate tariff increases. The company warned that the restriction could force it to halt one of its two operating lines.
