The miner will also use "alternative actions" to extract materials from El Teniente following delays to expand it.

SQM posted on Wednesday quarterly earnings that fell from the previous year while missing forecasts.

Company said it was on track to start producing gold at its Salares Norte project in the fourth quarter of this year.

Cost overruns on projects to upgrade five mines could mean its debt is likely to reach $30 billion by 2030 from $18 billion now.

The miner posted a net profit of $580.3 million for the three months ended June.

Aurora Williams, who will replace Marcela Hernando, held the same position during the 2014-18 administration of former President Michelle Bachelet.

The Segovia exploration drilling program has 17 rigs operating.