The delegation was informed that Consejo Minero is an association that groups public and private, national and international large-size mining companies that produce copper, gold and silver. The large-scale mining sector, represented by the Consejo Minero, is physically, economically and socially important at national and international levels. The members of the Consejo Minero account for over 60 per cent of Chile's total exports, making large-scale mining the most important industry in the country. At an international level, Chile's large-scale mining produces 40 per cent of the world's copper, and output has more than quadrupled since 1990. Chile has tripled reserves since 1990 and now holds 39 per cent of the world's known copper reserves. The purpose of the Consejo Minero is to promote world class public policy and operational practices for an industry that understands that policies and practices held in the past are not sustainable for future opportunities and seeks to generate and facilitate a favorable environment for mining companies to carry out their business. In summary, the Consejo Minero seeks to be the reference of large-scale mining, well known and appreciated for its economic, social and environmental leadership and performance that generates value for society. Consejo Minero comprises of 16 large privately owned mining companies, one state owned mining company, national and multi-national companies. The Council was established in 1998 and its associate members include, amongst others: . Anglo-American; . Codelco; . Xstrata,; and . BHP Billiton.