<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  10.4.0.13 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 11/1/2023 4:53:35 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 11/1/2023 4:53:35 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInEquity" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInEquity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsTables" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureBenefitPlansTables" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureBenefitPlansTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureStockholdersEquityTables" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureShortTermInvestmentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureShortTermInvestmentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureLeasesDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureLeasesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureBenefitPlansDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureBenefitPlansDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesEnvironmentalMattersDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesEnvironmentalMattersDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesGuaymasSulfuricAcidSpillDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesGuaymasSulfuricAcidSpillDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesLitigationMattersDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesLitigationMattersDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesLaborMattersDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesLaborMattersDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesOthersDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesOthersDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureStockholdersEquityTreasuryStockDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityTreasuryStockDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureStockholdersEquityRepurchaseProgramDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityRepurchaseProgramDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureStockholdersEquityDirectorsStockAwardPlanDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityDirectorsStockAwardPlanDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureStockholdersEquityEmployeeStockPurchasePlanDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityEmployeeStockPurchasePlanDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureFairValueMeasurementDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurementDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRevenueByGeographicalAreasDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRevenueByGeographicalAreasDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRevenueBySegmentDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRevenueBySegmentDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureRevenueReceivablesByReportingSegmentDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueReceivablesByReportingSegmentDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureRevenueProvisionallyPricesSalesDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueProvisionallyPricesSalesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndRelatedInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndRelatedInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/arcrole/esma-arcrole-2018-11-21.xsd#wider-narrower" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:type="simple" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-roles-2023.xsd#eedm" roleURI="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="Extensible Enumeration Domain Members" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99900 - Disclosure - Standard And Custom Axis Domain Defaults">
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis_1" xlink:title="dei_LegalEntityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_1" xlink:title="dei_EntityDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis_1" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:dei_LegalEntityAxis_1 To dei_EntityDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_EntityListingsExchangeAxis" xlink:label="dei_EntityListingsExchangeAxis_1" xlink:title="dei_EntityListingsExchangeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_ExchangeDomain" xlink:label="dei_ExchangeDomain_1" xlink:title="dei_ExchangeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="dei_EntityListingsExchangeAxis_1" xlink:to="dei_ExchangeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:dei_EntityListingsExchangeAxis_1 To dei_ExchangeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1 To srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_RangeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_1" xlink:title="srt_RangeMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_RangeAxis_1 To srt_RangeMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1 To us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1 To srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_1 To us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1 To us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1 To us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeAxis" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeDomain" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeAxis_1 To scco_EmployeeTerminationTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1 To us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1 To srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis_1 To us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_OwnershipAxis_1 To srt_OwnershipDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1 To us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1 To us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1 To us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_EnergyAxis" xlink:label="srt_EnergyAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_EnergyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_EnergyDomain" xlink:label="srt_EnergyDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_EnergyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_EnergyAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_EnergyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_EnergyAxis_1 To srt_EnergyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_1 To us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1 To us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteAxis" xlink:label="scco_SiteAxis_1" xlink:title="scco_SiteAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain_1" xlink:title="scco_SiteDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis_1" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:scco_SiteAxis_1 To scco_SiteDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1 To us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1 To srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_1 To us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1 To srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1 To us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_1 To us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1 To us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis_1 To us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_1 To us-gaap_SegmentDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_1 To srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SettlementMonthAxis" xlink:label="scco_SettlementMonthAxis_1" xlink:title="scco_SettlementMonthAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SettlementMonthDomain" xlink:label="scco_SettlementMonthDomain_1" xlink:title="scco_SettlementMonthDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="scco_SettlementMonthAxis_1" xlink:to="scco_SettlementMonthDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:scco_SettlementMonthAxis_1 To scco_SettlementMonthDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis_1 To us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1 To us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsForChangeInAccountingPrincipleAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForChangeInAccountingPrincipleAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForChangeInAccountingPrincipleAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleMember_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForChangeInAccountingPrincipleAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_AdjustmentsForChangeInAccountingPrincipleAxis_1 To us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1 To us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RestatementAxis" xlink:label="srt_RestatementAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_RestatementAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RestatementDomain" xlink:label="srt_RestatementDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_RestatementDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_RestatementAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_RestatementDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_RestatementAxis_1 To srt_RestatementDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1 To us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1 To us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1 To us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateAxis_1 To us-gaap_AcceleratedShareRepurchasesDateDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanByPlanAssetCategoriesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanByPlanAssetCategoriesAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanByPlanAssetCategoriesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanAssetCategoriesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanAssetCategoriesDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PlanAssetCategoriesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanByPlanAssetCategoriesAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanAssetCategoriesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanByPlanAssetCategoriesAxis_1 To us-gaap_PlanAssetCategoriesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyAxis_1 To us-gaap_RegulatoryAgencyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1 To us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_MajorCustomersAxis_1 To srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesAxis_1 To us-gaap_RealEstatePropertiesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_1 To srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1 To us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" order="1" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00305 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_638344544071853240" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_638344544071853240" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_AffiliatedEntityMember" xlink:label="srt_AffiliatedEntityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="srt_AffiliatedEntityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInEquity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00500 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638344544071873235" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638344544071873235" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ParentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_638344544071893227" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_638344544071893227" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="srt_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:to="srt_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_HoldingCompanyMember" xlink:label="scco_HoldingCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:to="scco_HoldingCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueTreasuryStockReissued" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueTreasuryStockReissued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueTreasuryStockReissued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TreasuryStockValueOtherActivityIncludingDividendInterestAndForeignCurrencyTransactionEffect" xlink:label="scco_TreasuryStockValueOtherActivityIncludingDividendInterestAndForeignCurrencyTransactionEffect" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="scco_TreasuryStockValueOtherActivityIncludingDividendInterestAndForeignCurrencyTransactionEffect" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30503 - Disclosure - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS: (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544071923224" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544071923224" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" xlink:label="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsAccountsReceivableAndAccountsPayableByRelatedPartyTableTextBlock" xlink:label="scco_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsAccountsReceivableAndAccountsPayableByRelatedPartyTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsAccountsReceivableAndAccountsPayableByRelatedPartyTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureBenefitPlansTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30903 - Disclosure - BENEFIT PLANS: (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_638344544071943239" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_638344544071943239" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DefinedBenefitPostretirementHealthCarePlanMember" xlink:label="scco_DefinedBenefitPostretirementHealthCarePlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="scco_DefinedBenefitPostretirementHealthCarePlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansTableTextBlockLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansTableTextBlockLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansTableTextBlockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNetBenefitCostsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNetBenefitCostsTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansTableTextBlockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNetBenefitCostsTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31103 - Disclosure - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_638344544071953239" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_638344544071953239" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2015PlanMember" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2015PlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2015PlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2018PlanMember" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2018PlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2018PlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationNonemployeeDirectorStockAwardPlanActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationNonemployeeDirectorStockAwardPlanActivityTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationNonemployeeDirectorStockAwardPlanActivityTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ScheduleOfStockBasedCompensationExpenseAndUnrecognizedCompensationExpenseTableTextBlock" xlink:label="scco_ScheduleOfStockBasedCompensationExpenseAndUnrecognizedCompensationExpenseTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ScheduleOfStockBasedCompensationExpenseAndUnrecognizedCompensationExpenseTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationEmployeeStockPurchasePlanActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationEmployeeStockPurchasePlanActivityTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationEmployeeStockPurchasePlanActivityTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MinorityInterestTableTextBlock" xlink:label="scco_MinorityInterestTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MinorityInterestTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureShortTermInvestmentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40201 - Disclosure - SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544071973246" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544071973246" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TradingSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradingSecurities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradingSecurities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TradingSecuritiesWeightedAverageInterestRate" xlink:label="scco_TradingSecuritiesWeightedAverageInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_TradingSecuritiesWeightedAverageInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecuritiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecuritiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecuritiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesWeightedAverageInterestRate" xlink:label="scco_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesWeightedAverageInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesWeightedAverageInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DebtSecuritiesTradingAbstract" xlink:label="scco_DebtSecuritiesTradingAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_DebtSecuritiesTradingAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeDebtSecuritiesTradingOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDebtSecuritiesTradingOperating" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_DebtSecuritiesTradingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDebtSecuritiesTradingOperating" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40401 - Disclosure - INCOME TAXES: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_IncomeTaxesTable" xlink:label="scco_IncomeTaxesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072003235" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072003235" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_PE" xlink:label="country_PE" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PE" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:label="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_IncomeTaxesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperations" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperations" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MiningRoyaltyTaxPeru" xlink:label="scco_MiningRoyaltyTaxPeru" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MiningRoyaltyTaxPeru" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MiningRoyaltyTaxMexico" xlink:label="scco_MiningRoyaltyTaxMexico" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MiningRoyaltyTaxMexico" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SpecialMiningTax" xlink:label="scco_SpecialMiningTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_SpecialMiningTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_RoyaltyExpenses" xlink:label="scco_RoyaltyExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_RoyaltyExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="scco_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LiabilityThatIncreasedTaxExpense" xlink:label="scco_LiabilityThatIncreasedTaxExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="scco_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_LiabilityThatIncreasedTaxExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40501 - Disclosure - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544072263244" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544072263244" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AsarcoMember" xlink:label="scco_AsarcoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_AsarcoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmmincoApoyoAdministrativoS.a.DeC.v.Member" xlink:label="scco_AmmincoApoyoAdministrativoS.a.DeC.v.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_AmmincoApoyoAdministrativoS.a.DeC.v.Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CompaniaPerforadoraMexicoS.a.p.i.DeC.v.AndAffiliatesMember" xlink:label="scco_CompaniaPerforadoraMexicoS.a.p.i.DeC.v.AndAffiliatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_CompaniaPerforadoraMexicoS.a.p.i.DeC.v.AndAffiliatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EolicaElRetiroMember" xlink:label="scco_EolicaElRetiroMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_EolicaElRetiroMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_FerrocarrilMexicanoSADeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_FerrocarrilMexicanoSADeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_FerrocarrilMexicanoSADeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVAndAffiliatesMember" xlink:label="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVAndAffiliatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVAndAffiliatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_GrupoMexicoServiciosSBDeCVAndAffiliatesMember" xlink:label="scco_GrupoMexicoServiciosSBDeCVAndAffiliatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_GrupoMexicoServiciosSBDeCVAndAffiliatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicoGeneradoraDeEnergiaSDeRLMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicoGeneradoraDeEnergiaSDeRLMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_MexicoGeneradoraDeEnergiaSDeRLMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicoCompaniaConstructoraSaDeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicoCompaniaConstructoraSaDeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_MexicoCompaniaConstructoraSaDeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicoProyectosYDesarrollosSaDeCvAndAffiliatesMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicoProyectosYDesarrollosSaDeCvAndAffiliatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_MexicoProyectosYDesarrollosSaDeCvAndAffiliatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_GrupoMexicoServiciosDeIngenieriaS.a.DeC.v.Member" xlink:label="scco_GrupoMexicoServiciosDeIngenieriaS.a.DeC.v.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_GrupoMexicoServiciosDeIngenieriaS.a.DeC.v.Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ControladoraDeInfraestructuraEnergeticaMexicoSADeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_ControladoraDeInfraestructuraEnergeticaMexicoSADeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="scco_GrupoMexicoSABDeCVMember" xlink:to="scco_ControladoraDeInfraestructuraEnergeticaMexicoSADeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" xlink:label="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_BoutiqueBowlingDeMexicoSDeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_BoutiqueBowlingDeMexicoSDeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" xlink:to="scco_BoutiqueBowlingDeMexicoSDeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmpresariosIndustrialesDeMexicoS.a.DeC.vMember" xlink:label="scco_EmpresariosIndustrialesDeMexicoS.a.DeC.vMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" xlink:to="scco_EmpresariosIndustrialesDeMexicoS.a.DeC.vMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicoTransportesAereosSADeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicoTransportesAereosSADeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" xlink:to="scco_MexicoTransportesAereosSADeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OperadoraDeCinemasSDeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_OperadoraDeCinemasSDeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_OtherLarreaFamilyCompaniesMember" xlink:to="scco_OperadoraDeCinemasSDeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmmincoApoyoFerrocarrilMexicanoAndOperadoraDeCinemasMember" xlink:label="scco_AmmincoApoyoFerrocarrilMexicanoAndOperadoraDeCinemasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_AmmincoApoyoFerrocarrilMexicanoAndOperadoraDeCinemasMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmmincoApoyoAndFerrocarrilMexicanoMember" xlink:label="scco_AmmincoApoyoAndFerrocarrilMexicanoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_AmmincoApoyoAndFerrocarrilMexicanoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_BoutiqueBowlingAndOperadoraDeCinemasMember" xlink:label="scco_BoutiqueBowlingAndOperadoraDeCinemasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_BoutiqueBowlingAndOperadoraDeCinemasMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072303435" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072303435" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544072313240" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544072313240" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_638344544072323245" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_638344544072323245" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CompaniaMineraCoimolacheSAMember" xlink:label="scco_CompaniaMineraCoimolacheSAMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_CompaniaMineraCoimolacheSAMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ApuCoropunaS.r.l.Member" xlink:label="scco_ApuCoropunaS.r.l.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_ApuCoropunaS.r.l.Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_638344544072333235" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_638344544072333235" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_AffiliatedEntityMember" xlink:label="srt_AffiliatedEntityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="srt_AffiliatedEntityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_RelatedPartyTransactionMaterialAffiliateTransactionThresholdAggregateConsiderationToBeAuthorizedByGeneralCounselAndCFO" xlink:label="scco_RelatedPartyTransactionMaterialAffiliateTransactionThresholdAggregateConsiderationToBeAuthorizedByGeneralCounselAndCFO" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_RelatedPartyTransactionMaterialAffiliateTransactionThresholdAggregateConsiderationToBeAuthorizedByGeneralCounselAndCFO" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DueFromToRelatedPartiesCurrent" xlink:label="scco_DueFromToRelatedPartiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_DueFromToRelatedPartiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionPurchasesFromRelatedParty" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionPurchasesFromRelatedParty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionPurchasesFromRelatedParty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ThresholdRevenueFromRelatedParties" xlink:label="scco_ThresholdRevenueFromRelatedParties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ThresholdRevenueFromRelatedParties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DonationsPaid" xlink:label="scco_DonationsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_DonationsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfNaturalGasFiredCombinedCyclePowerGeneratingUnits" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfNaturalGasFiredCombinedCyclePowerGeneratingUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfNaturalGasFiredCombinedCyclePowerGeneratingUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PowerGeneratingUnitsTotalCapacity" xlink:label="scco_PowerGeneratingUnitsTotalCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_PowerGeneratingUnitsTotalCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfWindTurbines" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfWindTurbines" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfWindTurbines" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_RelatedPartyTransactionsPercentageOfPowerSupplyToThirdPartyEnergyUsers" xlink:label="scco_RelatedPartyTransactionsPercentageOfPowerSupplyToThirdPartyEnergyUsers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_RelatedPartyTransactionsPercentageOfPowerSupplyToThirdPartyEnergyUsers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureLeasesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40701 - Disclosure - LEASES: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544072393262" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544072393262" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638344544072393262" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638344544072393262" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ExplorationExpenseMember" xlink:label="scco_ExplorationExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="scco_ExplorationExpenseMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LesseeOperatingLeaseRemainingTermOfContract" xlink:label="scco_LesseeOperatingLeaseRemainingTermOfContract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="scco_LesseeOperatingLeaseRemainingTermOfContract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortizationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortizationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortizationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" xlink:label="scco_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="scco_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40801 - Disclosure - ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" xlink:label="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072443254" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072443254" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_PE" xlink:label="country_PE" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PE" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638344544072453268" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638344544072453268" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AssetRetirementObligationLineItems" xlink:label="scco_AssetRetirementObligationLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="scco_AssetRetirementObligationLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_AssetRetirementObligationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AssetRetirementObligationPeriodAfterWhichSuccessiveReviewsAreRequired" xlink:label="scco_AssetRetirementObligationPeriodAfterWhichSuccessiveReviewsAreRequired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AssetRetirementObligationPeriodAfterWhichSuccessiveReviewsAreRequired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AssetRetirementObligationUnitsNumber" xlink:label="scco_AssetRetirementObligationUnitsNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AssetRetirementObligationUnitsNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationPeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationPeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AssetRetirementObligationIncreaseDecreaseInAssetDueToRevisionInEstimate" xlink:label="scco_AssetRetirementObligationIncreaseDecreaseInAssetDueToRevisionInEstimate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AssetRetirementObligationIncreaseDecreaseInAssetDueToRevisionInEstimate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AssetRetirementObligationsIncreaseDecreaseInEstimate" xlink:label="scco_AssetRetirementObligationsIncreaseDecreaseInEstimate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AssetRetirementObligationsIncreaseDecreaseInEstimate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MaximumPercentageOfAnnualGuaranteesSecured" xlink:label="scco_MaximumPercentageOfAnnualGuaranteesSecured" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_MaximumPercentageOfAnnualGuaranteesSecured" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfGuaranteeForPledgedOfficeComplex" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfGuaranteeForPledgedOfficeComplex" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfGuaranteeForPledgedOfficeComplex" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfSecurityForStandByLetterOfCredit" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfSecurityForStandByLetterOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfSecurityForStandByLetterOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_AssetRetirementObligationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRevisionOfEstimate" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRevisionOfEstimate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRevisionOfEstimate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationLiabilitiesSettled" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationLiabilitiesSettled" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationLiabilitiesSettled" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAccretionExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAccretionExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAccretionExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureBenefitPlansDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40901 - Disclosure - BENEFIT PLANS: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_638344544072493276" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_638344544072493276" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DefinedBenefitPostretirementHealthCarePlanMember" xlink:label="scco_DefinedBenefitPostretirementHealthCarePlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="scco_DefinedBenefitPostretirementHealthCarePlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544072493276" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544072493276" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DefinedBenefitPlanNumberOfExpatriateNoncontributoryPlans" xlink:label="scco_DefinedBenefitPlanNumberOfExpatriateNoncontributoryPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="scco_DefinedBenefitPlanNumberOfExpatriateNoncontributoryPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesEnvironmentalMattersDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41001 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: - Environmental matters (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" xlink:label="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072523256" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072523256" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_PE" xlink:label="country_PE" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PE" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EnvironmentalCostLineItems" xlink:label="scco_EnvironmentalCostLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="scco_EnvironmentalCostLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ScheduleOfEnvironmentalCostsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EnvironmentalCostsRecognizedCapitalizedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_EnvironmentalCostsRecognizedCapitalizedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_EnvironmentalCostLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EnvironmentalCostsRecognizedCapitalizedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfCategoriesOfCollectiveActionsForEnvironmentalMatters" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfCategoriesOfCollectiveActionsForEnvironmentalMatters" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_EnvironmentalCostLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfCategoriesOfCollectiveActionsForEnvironmentalMatters" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MinimumNumberOfPeopleClaimingInjuryToInitiateCollectiveAction" xlink:label="scco_MinimumNumberOfPeopleClaimingInjuryToInitiateCollectiveAction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_EnvironmentalCostLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MinimumNumberOfPeopleClaimingInjuryToInitiateCollectiveAction" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesGuaymasSulfuricAcidSpillDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41002 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: - Guaymas sulfuric acid spill (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteAxis" xlink:label="scco_SiteAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="scco_SiteAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072533250" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072533250" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MarineTerminalInGuaymasMember" xlink:label="scco_MarineTerminalInGuaymasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_MarineTerminalInGuaymasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_638344544072543256" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_638344544072543256" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ClimateChangeMember" xlink:label="scco_ClimateChangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:to="scco_ClimateChangeMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544072543256" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544072543256" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_VolumeOfSulfuricAcidDischargedInIncident" xlink:label="scco_VolumeOfSulfuricAcidDischargedInIncident" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_VolumeOfSulfuricAcidDischargedInIncident" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_WaterVolumeAtGuaymasBay" xlink:label="scco_WaterVolumeAtGuaymasBay" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_WaterVolumeAtGuaymasBay" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfTimesOfRenewal" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfTimesOfRenewal" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfTimesOfRenewal" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfYearsOfEachRenewal" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfYearsOfEachRenewal" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfYearsOfEachRenewal" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MiningOperationsTaxRatePerTonneOfCarbonDioxide" xlink:label="scco_MiningOperationsTaxRatePerTonneOfCarbonDioxide" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MiningOperationsTaxRatePerTonneOfCarbonDioxide" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfBusinessUnits" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfBusinessUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfBusinessUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MiningOperationsThresholdAnnualGreenhouseGasEmissions" xlink:label="scco_MiningOperationsThresholdAnnualGreenhouseGasEmissions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MiningOperationsThresholdAnnualGreenhouseGasEmissions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MiningOperationsEmissionsAverageCostsPerBusinessUnit" xlink:label="scco_MiningOperationsEmissionsAverageCostsPerBusinessUnit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MiningOperationsEmissionsAverageCostsPerBusinessUnit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MiningOperationsThresholdAnnualGreenhouseGasEmissionsForReportingToNationalEmissionsRegistry" xlink:label="scco_MiningOperationsThresholdAnnualGreenhouseGasEmissionsForReportingToNationalEmissionsRegistry" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_MiningOperationsThresholdAnnualGreenhouseGasEmissionsForReportingToNationalEmissionsRegistry" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesLitigationMattersDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41003 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: - Litigation matters (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072573258" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072573258" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544072573258" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544072573258" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_FranciscaGarciaEnriquezMember" xlink:label="scco_FranciscaGarciaEnriquezMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_FranciscaGarciaEnriquezMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DefensaColectivaMember" xlink:label="scco_DefensaColectivaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_DefensaColectivaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AccionesColectivasDeSinaloaMember" xlink:label="scco_AccionesColectivasDeSinaloaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_AccionesColectivasDeSinaloaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NorbertoBustamanteEtAlMember" xlink:label="scco_NorbertoBustamanteEtAlMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_NorbertoBustamanteEtAlMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MariaelenaherediabustamanteetalmartineligioortizgamezetalandmariadelosangelesenriquezbacameetalMember" xlink:label="scco_MariaelenaherediabustamanteetalmartineligioortizgamezetalandmariadelosangelesenriquezbacameetalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_MariaelenaherediabustamanteetalmartineligioortizgamezetalandmariadelosangelesenriquezbacameetalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_638344544072593277" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_638344544072593277" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_BuenavistaDelCobreSaDeCVMember" xlink:label="scco_BuenavistaDelCobreSaDeCVMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="scco_BuenavistaDelCobreSaDeCVMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteAxis" xlink:label="scco_SiteAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="scco_SiteAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072593277" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072593277" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TiaMariaMember" xlink:label="scco_TiaMariaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_TiaMariaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfLawsuits" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfLawsuits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfLawsuits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfCollectiveActionLawsuits" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfCollectiveActionLawsuits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfCollectiveActionLawsuits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfSubsidiariesAgainstWhichLawsuitsFiled" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfSubsidiariesAgainstWhichLawsuitsFiled" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfSubsidiariesAgainstWhichLawsuitsFiled" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfCollectiveActionLawsuitsDismissed" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfCollectiveActionLawsuitsDismissed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfCollectiveActionLawsuitsDismissed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfLawsuitsInProcess" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfLawsuitsInProcess" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfLawsuitsInProcess" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfCivilActionsSeekingDamages" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfCivilActionsSeekingDamages" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfCivilActionsSeekingDamages" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyPendingClaimsNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyPendingClaimsNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyPendingClaimsNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfConstitutionalActionLawsuits" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfConstitutionalActionLawsuits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfConstitutionalActionLawsuits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfSubsidiariesToWhichEnvironmentalImpactAuthorizationsGranted" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfSubsidiariesToWhichEnvironmentalImpactAuthorizationsGranted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfSubsidiariesToWhichEnvironmentalImpactAuthorizationsGranted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfAdditionalConstitutionalActionLawsuits" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfAdditionalConstitutionalActionLawsuits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfAdditionalConstitutionalActionLawsuits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfMonitoringWellsDownstreamFromDam" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfMonitoringWellsDownstreamFromDam" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfMonitoringWellsDownstreamFromDam" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PeriodToSubmitSemarnat" xlink:label="scco_PeriodToSubmitSemarnat" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_PeriodToSubmitSemarnat" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesLaborMattersDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41004 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: - Labor matters (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072643486" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072643486" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_PE" xlink:label="country_PE" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PE" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_638344544072653286" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_638344544072653286" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LaborMattersMember" xlink:label="scco_LaborMattersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:to="scco_LaborMattersMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteAxis" xlink:label="scco_SiteAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="scco_SiteAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072653286" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072653286" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_IloAndCuajoneMember" xlink:label="scco_IloAndCuajoneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_IloAndCuajoneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544072663278" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544072663278" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfLaborUnionized" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfLaborUnionized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfLaborUnionized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TotalNumberOfWorkers" xlink:label="scco_TotalNumberOfWorkers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_TotalNumberOfWorkers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfLaborUnions" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfLaborUnions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfLaborUnions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfLaborUnionsRepresentMajorityOfWorkers" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfLaborUnionsRepresentMajorityOfWorkers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfLaborUnionsRepresentMajorityOfWorkers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TermOfAgreement" xlink:label="scco_TermOfAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_TermOfAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AgreementExtendedTerm" xlink:label="scco_AgreementExtendedTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_AgreementExtendedTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInSalary" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInSalary" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInSalary" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AgreementSignedNumberOfLaborUnions" xlink:label="scco_AgreementSignedNumberOfLaborUnions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_AgreementSignedNumberOfLaborUnions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LongTermAgreementBonus" xlink:label="scco_LongTermAgreementBonus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_LongTermAgreementBonus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ComplianceWithArbitrationAwardCompensationBonusPaidToEachEmployee" xlink:label="scco_ComplianceWithArbitrationAwardCompensationBonusPaidToEachEmployee" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ComplianceWithArbitrationAwardCompensationBonusPaidToEachEmployee" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ComplianceWithArbitrationAwardSigningBonusPaidToEachEmployee" xlink:label="scco_ComplianceWithArbitrationAwardSigningBonusPaidToEachEmployee" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ComplianceWithArbitrationAwardSigningBonusPaidToEachEmployee" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesOthersDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41005 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: - Others (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteAxis" xlink:label="scco_SiteAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="scco_SiteAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SiteDomain" xlink:label="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072693277" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteAxis" xlink:to="scco_SiteDomain_638344544072693277" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MichiquillayMember" xlink:label="scco_MichiquillayMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_MichiquillayMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ToquepalaConcentratorExpansionMember" xlink:label="scco_ToquepalaConcentratorExpansionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_ToquepalaConcentratorExpansionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DevelopmentFundMoqueguaRegionMember" xlink:label="scco_DevelopmentFundMoqueguaRegionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_DevelopmentFundMoqueguaRegionMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ApurimacRegionMember" xlink:label="scco_ApurimacRegionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_ApurimacRegionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ArequipaRegionMember" xlink:label="scco_ArequipaRegionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="scco_SiteDomain" xlink:to="scco_ArequipaRegionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072703263" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544072703263" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_PE" xlink:label="country_PE" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PE" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544072713263" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544072713263" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CopperMember" xlink:label="scco_CopperMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_CopperMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_638344544072713263" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_638344544072713263" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementMember" xlink:label="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_FundingForDifferentProjectsMember" xlink:label="scco_FundingForDifferentProjectsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_FundingForDifferentProjectsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EducationalProjectMember" xlink:label="scco_EducationalProjectMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_EducationalProjectMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ConstructionOfCularjahuiraDamMember" xlink:label="scco_ConstructionOfCularjahuiraDamMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_ConstructionOfCularjahuiraDamMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_StudyOfEngineeringForCollazasDamMember" xlink:label="scco_StudyOfEngineeringForCollazasDamMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_StudyOfEngineeringForCollazasDamMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_InfrastructureProjectsMember" xlink:label="scco_InfrastructureProjectsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_InfrastructureProjectsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_IrrigationSystemsProjectsMember" xlink:label="scco_IrrigationSystemsProjectsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_IrrigationSystemsProjectsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_WaterTreatmentMember" xlink:label="scco_WaterTreatmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_WaterTreatmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DrinkingWaterProjectMember" xlink:label="scco_DrinkingWaterProjectMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_DrinkingWaterProjectMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_FeasibilityStudiesAndMinorProjectsMember" xlink:label="scco_FeasibilityStudiesAndMinorProjectsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_FeasibilityStudiesAndMinorProjectsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SocialInvestmentForTaxesMember" xlink:label="scco_SocialInvestmentForTaxesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="scco_SocialInvestmentForTaxesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544072743263" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638344544072743263" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ElectroperuSaMember" xlink:label="scco_ElectroperuSaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_ElectroperuSaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ParqueEolicoDeFeniciasS.DeR.l.DeC.vMember" xlink:label="scco_ParqueEolicoDeFeniciasS.DeR.l.DeC.vMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_ParqueEolicoDeFeniciasS.DeR.l.DeC.vMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_KallpaGeneracionSaMember" xlink:label="scco_KallpaGeneracionSaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_KallpaGeneracionSaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638344544072753259" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638344544072753259" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:label="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ContingentContractualObligation" xlink:label="scco_ContingentContractualObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ContingentContractualObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TotalMineralResources" xlink:label="scco_TotalMineralResources" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_TotalMineralResources" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfCopperGrade" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfCopperGrade" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfCopperGrade" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AnnualProduction" xlink:label="scco_AnnualProduction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AnnualProduction" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MinimumInitialTermOfMine" xlink:label="scco_MinimumInitialTermOfMine" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_MinimumInitialTermOfMine" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ContractualObligationPaid" xlink:label="scco_ContractualObligationPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ContractualObligationPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_RemainingContractualObligationIfProjectDeveloped" xlink:label="scco_RemainingContractualObligationIfProjectDeveloped" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_RemainingContractualObligationIfProjectDeveloped" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PreOperationalPeriod" xlink:label="scco_PreOperationalPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PreOperationalPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ExtendedPreOperationalPeriod" xlink:label="scco_ExtendedPreOperationalPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ExtendedPreOperationalPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_InvestmentInProjectsInNextFiveYears" xlink:label="scco_InvestmentInProjectsInNextFiveYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_InvestmentInProjectsInNextFiveYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfMetersDrilled" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfMetersDrilled" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfMetersDrilled" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfCoreSamplesObtained" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfCoreSamplesObtained" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfCoreSamplesObtained" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PeriodOfInvestmentInProjects" xlink:label="scco_PeriodOfInvestmentInProjects" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PeriodOfInvestmentInProjects" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSocialAndInfrastructureImprovementProjects" xlink:label="scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSocialAndInfrastructureImprovementProjects" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSocialAndInfrastructureImprovementProjects" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountOfInvestmentInProject" xlink:label="scco_AmountOfInvestmentInProject" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountOfInvestmentInProject" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CommitmentLiability" xlink:label="scco_CommitmentLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_CommitmentLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountPaidOutForFundingUnderFinalAgreementForCandaraveProvince" xlink:label="scco_AmountPaidOutForFundingUnderFinalAgreementForCandaraveProvince" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountPaidOutForFundingUnderFinalAgreementForCandaraveProvince" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfProgressOnConstruction" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfProgressOnConstruction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfProgressOnConstruction" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfSchoolsAgreedForConstruction" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfSchoolsAgreedForConstruction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfSchoolsAgreedForConstruction" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSchoolProjects" xlink:label="scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSchoolProjects" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSchoolProjects" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountCommittedToFundingForSportsInfrastructureProject" xlink:label="scco_AmountCommittedToFundingForSportsInfrastructureProject" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountCommittedToFundingForSportsInfrastructureProject" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSocialAndInfrastructureImprovementProjectsBuildTracksAndSidewalks" xlink:label="scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSocialAndInfrastructureImprovementProjectsBuildTracksAndSidewalks" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountCommittedForFundingSocialAndInfrastructureImprovementProjectsBuildTracksAndSidewalks" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfInfrastructureProjectsAgreedForConstruction" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfInfrastructureProjectsAgreedForConstruction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfInfrastructureProjectsAgreedForConstruction" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_AmountFinancedPreInvestmentStudiesForBasicSanitation" xlink:label="scco_AmountFinancedPreInvestmentStudiesForBasicSanitation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_AmountFinancedPreInvestmentStudiesForBasicSanitation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementContractualPowerCapacity" xlink:label="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementContractualPowerCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementContractualPowerCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementTerm" xlink:label="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementSupplyCommitmentPerYear" xlink:label="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementSupplyCommitmentPerYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PowerPurchaseAgreementSupplyCommitmentPerYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CommitmentsForCapitalProjects" xlink:label="scco_CommitmentsForCapitalProjects" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="scco_CommitmentsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_CommitmentsForCapitalProjects" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityTreasuryStockDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41101 - Disclosure - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: - Treasury Stock (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638344544072863277" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638344544072863277" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_638344544072863277" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_638344544072863277" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="srt_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:to="srt_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_HoldingCompanyMember" xlink:label="scco_HoldingCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:to="scco_HoldingCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" xlink:label="scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:to="scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueTreasuryStockReissued" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueTreasuryStockReissued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueTreasuryStockReissued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_TreasuryStockValueOtherActivityIncludingDividendInterestAndForeignCurrencyTransactionEffect" xlink:label="scco_TreasuryStockValueOtherActivityIncludingDividendInterestAndForeignCurrencyTransactionEffect" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" xlink:to="scco_TreasuryStockValueOtherActivityIncludingDividendInterestAndForeignCurrencyTransactionEffect" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_TreasuryStockValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityRepurchaseProgramDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41102 - Disclosure - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: - Repurchase Program (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_638344544073043274" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_638344544073043274" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="srt_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:to="srt_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_StockRepurchaseProgramAbstract" xlink:label="scco_StockRepurchaseProgramAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="scco_StockRepurchaseProgramAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_StockRepurchaseProgramAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PercentageOfOwnershipByParent" xlink:label="scco_PercentageOfOwnershipByParent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_StockRepurchaseProgramAbstract" xlink:to="scco_PercentageOfOwnershipByParent" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityDirectorsStockAwardPlanDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41103 - Disclosure - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: - Directors Stock Award Plan (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_638344544073053275" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_638344544073053275" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_DirectorsStockAwardPlanMember" xlink:label="scco_DirectorsStockAwardPlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_DirectorsStockAwardPlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2023/dei-2023.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_638344544073063272" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_638344544073063272" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_HoldingCompanyMember" xlink:label="scco_HoldingCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="scco_HoldingCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantedOnElectionToDirectors" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantedOnElectionToDirectors" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantedOnElectionToDirectors" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAdditionalAnnualSharesGrantedToDirectors" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAdditionalAnnualSharesGrantedToDirectors" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAdditionalAnnualSharesGrantedToDirectors" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardExtensionOfPlanTerm" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardExtensionOfPlanTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardExtensionOfPlanTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardIncreasedAnnualSharesGrantedToDirectors" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardIncreasedAnnualSharesGrantedToDirectors" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardIncreasedAnnualSharesGrantedToDirectors" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfSharesBeingGrantedQuarterlyAndConditionedUponAttendanceOfEachDirectorToEachBoardMeeting" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfSharesBeingGrantedQuarterlyAndConditionedUponAttendanceOfEachDirectorToEachBoardMeeting" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfSharesBeingGrantedQuarterlyAndConditionedUponAttendanceOfEachDirectorToEachBoardMeeting" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantsRollForward" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantsRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantsRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrants" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantsRollForward" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesGrantsRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockCommonShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureStockholdersEquityEmployeeStockPurchasePlanDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41104 - Disclosure - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: - Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_638344544073093290" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_638344544073093290" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2015PlanMember" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2015PlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2015PlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2018PlanMember" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2018PlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="scco_EmployeeStockPurchase2018PlanMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:label="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPurchasePriceForInitialSubscription" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPurchasePriceForInitialSubscription" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPurchasePriceForInitialSubscription" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPercentageOfTitleAcquiredByEmployeeEveryTwoYearsOnSharesPaidInPreviousTwoYears" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPercentageOfTitleAcquiredByEmployeeEveryTwoYearsOnSharesPaidInPreviousTwoYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPercentageOfTitleAcquiredByEmployeeEveryTwoYearsOnSharesPaidInPreviousTwoYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardRatioOfBonusSharesGrantedAtEndOfExpirationTerm" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardRatioOfBonusSharesGrantedAtEndOfExpirationTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardRatioOfBonusSharesGrantedAtEndOfExpirationTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsOutstandingRollForward" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsOutstandingRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="scco_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsCompensationCostAbstract" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsOutstandingRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsOutstandingRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsOutstandingRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsOutstandingRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:label="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardsWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurementDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41201 - Disclosure - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_638344544073123293" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_638344544073123293" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_638344544073133289" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_638344544073133289" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638344544073133289" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638344544073133289" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_638344544073143278" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_638344544073143278" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageBackedSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageBackedSecuritiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageBackedSecuritiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073153280" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073153280" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CopperMember" xlink:label="scco_CopperMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_CopperMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MolybdenumMember" xlink:label="scco_MolybdenumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_MolybdenumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_TradingSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradingSecurities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradingSecurities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecuritiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecuritiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecuritiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAtFairValueNetAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAtFairValueNetAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAtFairValueNetAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAssetAtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAssetAtFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAtFairValueNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PriceRiskDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAssetAtFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NumberOfDerivativeContractsEntered" xlink:label="scco_NumberOfDerivativeContractsEntered" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NumberOfDerivativeContractsEntered" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRevenueByGeographicalAreasDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41301 - Disclosure - REVENUE: - Revenue by Geographical Areas (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544073193313" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638344544073193313" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_AmericasMember" xlink:label="srt_AmericasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="srt_AmericasMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_MX" xlink:label="country_MX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_AmericasMember" xlink:to="country_MX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_AmericasMember" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_PE" xlink:label="country_PE" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_AmericasMember" xlink:to="country_PE" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_BR" xlink:label="country_BR" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_AmericasMember" xlink:to="country_BR" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_CL" xlink:label="country_CL" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="srt_AmericasMember" xlink:to="country_CL" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OtherAmericanCountriesMember" xlink:label="scco_OtherAmericanCountriesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="srt_AmericasMember" xlink:to="scco_OtherAmericanCountriesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_EuropeMember" xlink:label="srt_EuropeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="srt_EuropeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_CH" xlink:label="country_CH" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_EuropeMember" xlink:to="country_CH" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_IT" xlink:label="country_IT" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_EuropeMember" xlink:to="country_IT" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_ES" xlink:label="country_ES" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_EuropeMember" xlink:to="country_ES" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OtherEuropeanCountriesMember" xlink:label="scco_OtherEuropeanCountriesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_EuropeMember" xlink:to="scco_OtherEuropeanCountriesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_AsiaMember" xlink:label="srt_AsiaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="srt_AsiaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_CN" xlink:label="country_CN" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_AsiaMember" xlink:to="country_CN" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_SG" xlink:label="country_SG" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_AsiaMember" xlink:to="country_SG" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2023/country-2023.xsd#country_JP" xlink:label="country_JP" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_AsiaMember" xlink:to="country_JP" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OtherAsianCountriesMember" xlink:label="scco_OtherAsianCountriesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_AsiaMember" xlink:to="scco_OtherAsianCountriesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073223294" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073223294" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" xlink:label="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073233291" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073233291" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" xlink:label="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRevenueBySegmentDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41302 - Disclosure - REVENUE: - Revenue by Segment (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073253323" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073253323" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CopperMember" xlink:label="scco_CopperMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_CopperMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MolybdenumMember" xlink:label="scco_MolybdenumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_MolybdenumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SilverMember" xlink:label="scco_SilverMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_SilverMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ZincMember" xlink:label="scco_ZincMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_ZincMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_OtherMember" xlink:label="scco_OtherMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_OtherMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073263294" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073263294" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" xlink:label="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073273288" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073273288" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" xlink:label="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueReceivablesByReportingSegmentDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41303 - Disclosure - REVENUE: - Receivables by reporting segment (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073283290" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073283290" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" xlink:label="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073293323" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073293323" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CopperConcentratesMember" xlink:label="scco_CopperConcentratesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_CopperConcentratesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CopperCathodesMember" xlink:label="scco_CopperCathodesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_CopperCathodesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MolybdenumConcentratesMember" xlink:label="scco_MolybdenumConcentratesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_MolybdenumConcentratesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SulfuricAcidMember" xlink:label="scco_SulfuricAcidMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_SulfuricAcidMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073303297" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073303297" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" xlink:label="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LongTermContractsAbstract" xlink:label="scco_LongTermContractsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="scco_LongTermContractsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_LongTermSupplyCommitment" xlink:label="scco_LongTermSupplyCommitment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_LongTermContractsAbstract" xlink:to="scco_LongTermSupplyCommitment" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureRevenueProvisionallyPricesSalesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41304 - Disclosure - REVENUE: - Provisionally prices sales (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesTable" xlink:label="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073323289" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638344544073323289" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CopperMember" xlink:label="scco_CopperMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_CopperMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MolybdenumMember" xlink:label="scco_MolybdenumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="scco_MolybdenumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SettlementMonthAxis" xlink:label="scco_SettlementMonthAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesTable" xlink:to="scco_SettlementMonthAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SettlementMonthDomain" xlink:label="scco_SettlementMonthDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SettlementMonthAxis" xlink:to="scco_SettlementMonthDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SettlementMonthDomain" xlink:label="scco_SettlementMonthDomain_638344544073323289" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SettlementMonthAxis" xlink:to="scco_SettlementMonthDomain_638344544073323289" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_October2023ThroughFebruary2024Member" xlink:label="scco_October2023ThroughFebruary2024Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SettlementMonthDomain" xlink:to="scco_October2023ThroughFebruary2024Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_October2023ThroughJanuary2024Member" xlink:label="scco_October2023ThroughJanuary2024Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_SettlementMonthDomain" xlink:to="scco_October2023ThroughJanuary2024Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesLineItems" xlink:label="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_NonmonetaryNotionalAmountOfProvisionallyPricedSalesAgreements" xlink:label="scco_NonmonetaryNotionalAmountOfProvisionallyPricedSalesAgreements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_NonmonetaryNotionalAmountOfProvisionallyPricedSalesAgreements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ProvisionalPriceOfSalesAgreementPerUnit" xlink:label="scco_ProvisionalPriceOfSalesAgreementPerUnit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ProvisionalPriceOfSalesAgreementPerUnit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_ProvisionalPriceSalesAdjustmentsInAccountsReceivableAndNetSales" xlink:label="scco_ProvisionalPriceSalesAdjustmentsInAccountsReceivableAndNetSales" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_ProvisionallyPricedSalesLineItems" xlink:to="scco_ProvisionalPriceSalesAdjustmentsInAccountsReceivableAndNetSales" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndRelatedInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41401 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND RELATED INFORMATION: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073343295" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638344544073343295" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanOpenPitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" xlink:label="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_MexicanIMMSAUnitMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" xlink:label="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="scco_PeruvianOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073343295" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073343295" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ReportableSubsegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportableSubsegmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportableSubsegmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IntersubsegmentEliminationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntersubsegmentEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntersubsegmentEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2023/elts/srt-2023.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073353292" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638344544073353292" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" xlink:label="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="scco_CorporateAndEliminationsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="scco-20230930.xsd#scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:label="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_ExplorationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExplorationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExplorationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentExpenditureAdditionToLongLivedAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentExpenditureAdditionToLongLivedAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentExpenditureAdditionToLongLivedAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="scco_SegmentReportingInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.southernperu.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41501 - Disclosure - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS: (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_638344544073403296" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_638344544073403296" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2023/elts/us-gaap-2023.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>
