Newmont Corp., the world’s biggest gold producer, plans to invest about $540 million at its Cerro Negro mine in Argentina, according to the government of the South American nation. The project will extend the life of the mine in Santa Cruz province to 2034, the government said in an emailed statement Wednesday. Newmont didn’t immediately respond to messages left requesting comment. Last year, Cerro Negro generated more than $500 million in exports, making it the most important mine in Santa Cruz. It’s comprised of three underground operating mines and two deposits being developed, as well as five other deposits. ... (full story)