Mining sector entities such as the Sonami and Consejero Minero associations welcomed the minister and focused on her experience with the sector in Antofagasta, rather than her radical politics.

"Marcela Hernando knows the sector closely thanks to her vast experience in different public positions, especially in mining regions. She is a woman from the mining region, we hope that she is successful in her management and that her regional stamp makes itself felt. The mining regions must be recipients of an important part of the resources collected by royalties and the new minister can play an important role in making this materialise," said Joaquin Villarino, Consejo Minero executive president.