VISIONS Magazine (October 2025 Edition)
The Sumitomo Corporation Andes Office
Two Offices Working Toward One Mission for SC South America
The Sumitomo Corporation Andes headquarters office in Bogota (left) and the SC Andes office in Lima, Peru (right)
As part of SC Andes, the Bogotá and Lima offices work in unison to consolidate resources, leadership, and expertise across the Andean region. Bogotá, serving as SC Andes’ headquarters since 2018, anchors the organization with its broad industry presence and innovative initiatives, while Lima strengthens the group through its strategic role in Peru’s vital mining economy. Together, these offices form a unified platform that advances Sumitomo Corporation of Americas’ growth and partnerships throughout the Andes. Now let’s look at each office.
The SC Andes Headquarters Office in Bogotá: a Regional Hub for Growth & Opportunity
Sumitomo established its Bogotá Office in 1968, which now serves as the central hub for SC Andes and employs 21 staff members. Notably, five of seven managers are women, highlighting a commitment to female opportunity. Since becoming SC Andes' headquarters in 2018, the office has streamlined administration and expanded its reach across key Colombian industries, including automotive, chemicals, steel, electric power, telecommunications, and coffee.
Driving New Business and Regional Synergy
Bogotá’s most active operations include trading in cosmetics, household insecticides, steels, and basic chemicals. At the same time, the office is pioneering future-focused opportunities. Colombia’s abundant natural resources make it an ideal setting for green hydrogen, where Bogotá is taking the lead with support from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) under its Global South program.
The office maintains strong partnerships with key Colombian players such as Promigas, the nation’s leading gas company, and EPM, the country’s second-largest enterprise. These alliances, alongside ongoing exploration of opportunities in Panama, position Bogotá as a forward-looking base of operations.
Life and Work in Bogotá
At 2,600 meters above sea level in the Andes, Bogotá offers a dynamic blend of natural and cultural richness. The city’s neighborhoods mix tradition and modernity: from Usaquén’s colonial streets to the vibrancy of cosmopolitan districts. Employees enjoy a wide variety of cultural and recreational options, from fresh fruit markets and Colombian cuisine to cycle paths stretching over 600 kilometers.
Office life is enriched by shared experiences—sampling regional foods, listening to traditional music, and even joining in local dance lessons. A spirit of warmth and inclusivity defines the Bogotá team, making it a welcoming base for visitors from across the SC network.
Looking Ahead
Bogotá’s focus remains on strengthening its core businesses while exploring new opportunities in innovative fields such as pet food and renewable energy projects. With its experienced talent pool, vibrant cultural backdrop, and strategic role as SC Andes’ headquarters, the Bogotá Office is set to drive growth for Sumitomo Corporation of Americas across the Andean region and beyond.
SC Andes Lima Office: a Mining Legacy on the Pacific Coast
Established in 2005, the Lima Office represents SC Americas’ presence in Peru, one of the world’s leading mining economies. The office currently has four non-rotating staff, one rotating member, and two additional employees contracted through a third-party company. Though small in number, the Lima team plays an outsized role in advancing Sumitomo’s business footprint in the Andean region. Recent renovations have modernized the workspace with new technology and improved hybrid work conditions.
The office’s legacy is tied closely to the Cerro Verde copper mine, a project in which Sumitomo became involved the year of the office’s founding. Cerro Verde accounts for 19% of Peru’s copper production, 34% of its molybdenum production, and nearly 2.5% of the nation’s GDP. In the Arequipa region alone, the mine contributes more than half of local GDP and generates around 100,000 jobs, directly and indirectly. Its success, and strong community relations, set the tone for Lima’s role as a steady force in SC Andes.
A Strategic Base for Mining Opportunities
Lima’s core focus is the AT24 mining business unit, the most active and profitable sector in Peru for Sumitomo. While no major diversification efforts are underway, the office sees long-term potential in carbon-neutral initiatives and circular economy models connected to the mineral resource industry.
Collaboration with the Bogotá Office is constant, with teams in both cities sharing information and identifying opportunities that strengthen SC Andes as a regional platform. Personnel exchanges with local mining companies and active participation in industry events ensure Lima remains well connected to Peru’s key stakeholders.
Life and Work in Lima
Nestled along Peru’s Pacific coast, Lima combines a gentle climate with a rich cultural heritage. The city’s world-famous cuisine—ranging from ceviche to Nikkei fusion—anchors office gatherings and strengthens team bonds. The rhythm of daily life is equally shaped by Peru’s archaeological wonders, with Cusco and Machu Picchu serving as top destinations for visiting colleagues.
The team culture emphasizes collaboration, transparent communication, and respect for diverse perspectives. Contributions to the local community, alongside professional development, help sustain motivation and foster a sense of pride in their work.
Looking Ahead
Building on its foundation in copper mining, the Lima Office aims to expand into future mineral resource projects while supporting exports of copper ore and iron ore to Japan and beyond. By maintaining strong ties to both local partners and regional colleagues, Lima is set to remain a cornerstone of SC Andes’ contribution to Sumitomo’s global growth.
