Javier Bernal Salas

Javier Bernal Salas is a prominent figure in the mining sector of Peru, serving as a representative of the Confederación Nacional de Pequeña Minería y Minería Artesanal del Perú (Confemin) and as vice president of the Asociación de Pequeños Mineros y Mineros Artesanales de Sandia y Carabaya. As a precandidate for the Renovación Popular party in the 2026 elections, he is known for his advocacy for small miners and has been involved in legislative discussions regarding informal mining issues. Bernal has faced legal scrutiny since 2020 for alleged money laundering linked to illegal mining activities, which he denies. He has a background in advising mining companies and has participated in dialogues with various members of Congress to address mining regulations.