From 2010 to 2019, Chile was the world's leading miner of …?

Question

For what reason did a 1975-6 discovery in Monte Verde in the low mountains in the south of Chile stir interest in the scientific community?

Answer 1

Copper
During that period Chile mined about 5.5 million metric tons or more per year. Peru was next highest with just under 2.5 million metric tons per year over the same period.