Under the theme “Year of Impact”, the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2025 is set to redefine the global mining landscape, building on the success of its previous editions. Organized by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the fourth FMF will take place from January 14-16, 2025, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh.
This year’s event expects to host over 20,000 attendees, including representatives from 100 governments and 50 international organizations, underscoring its growing influence since its inception in 2022.
Driving Global Collaboration
Speaking at a launch press conference, Saudi Arabia’s Vice-Minister for Mining Affairs, H.E. Khalid Al-Mudaifer, emphasized FMF’s role as a pivotal platform for addressing challenges in global mineral supply chains. The forum aims to enhance the supply of critical minerals essential for the global transition to clean energy while fostering international cooperation.
The Ministerial Roundtable, a core feature of FMF, will gather global policymakers and industry leaders to shape strategies for sustainable mining and resource management. Additionally, the International Geological Surveys meeting, now in its second year, will host the largest assembly of survey CEOs, including leaders from Africa, West and Central Asia, and renowned institutions like the US Geological Survey and the British Geological Survey.
Key objectives include:
- Expanding geological survey capacity across the “Super Region.”
- Leveraging AI and digital technologies to improve mineral exploration.
- Establishing a regional center of excellence for innovation and skills development.
Innovative New Features
FMF 2025 introduces several inaugural events:
- Centers of Excellence and Technology Meeting: Showcasing advancements in mineral research and innovation.
- Knowledge Exchange: A platform for sharing breakthroughs in geology, technology, sustainability, and talent development.
- Leadership Roundtable: Gathering global leaders to address critical investment and infrastructure challenges.
A Global Platform for Mining Excellence
The conference plenary will feature CEOs from 11 of the top 20 global mining companies and 10 International Council for Metals and Mining (ICMM) members, alongside a three-day international exhibition, extended from two days in previous years.
Day 1 will spotlight interactive sessions on mineral supply, technology, and sustainability, with a focus on integrating local communities into the mineral value chain. Days 2 and 3 will feature Regional Leadership Roundtables, emphasizing trade and investment opportunities in Africa, Latin America, and Central Asia.
Vice-Minister Al-Mudaifer highlighted the forum’s commitment to driving sustainability in mining while supporting economic and social development. “FMF provides an exceptional opportunity to exchange ideas, showcase innovative solutions, and strengthen international cooperation,” he noted.
As the FMF 2025 approaches, it promises to remain at the forefront of global efforts to secure sustainable mineral supplies and foster a collaborative future for the industry.
Source: im-mining.com
