The labor negotiations at Chile's Escondida copper mine are entering the final day, increasing the risk of a strike.

```htmlThe wage mediation negotiations between the union of Chile’s large Escondida copper mine and operator BHP Group have entered their final day. Previously, BHP Group had increased its compensation proposal. Meanwhile, striking workers at Antofagasta’s copper mine have also returned to the negotiating table. Copper prices are nearing historic highs, prompting miners to demand a greater share of mining profits, while mining companies attempt to control rising costs, resulting in increasingly tense labor relations in Chile, the world’s largest copper producer. At the same time, the risk of further production disruptions has intensified market concerns over copper supply and has become a factor driving copper prices higher. BHP Group stated that its latest proposal would further solidify Escondida copper mine supervisors and employees as having the highest remuneration among similar industry positions. The union acknowledged that the new plan addressed some of their demands but noted that significant differences remain between the two sides. Alexis Barrera, head of the Escondida second supervisors and employees union, said that given the company’s huge profits, the signing bonus of about $25,500 per employee as part of the overall welfare package is “below market level.” If the parties fail to reach an agreement on Tuesday, more than 1,000 union members may go on strike starting Wednesday. Both sides may also agree to extend the mediation process.```