Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Minister of Finance Mohammed Al-Jadaan said on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a key global hub in the mining sector.

Attending a panel discussion at the Future Minerals Forum 2026 in Riyadh, Al-Jadaan emphasized that the mining sector has the potential to attract capital, provided a favorable and stable environment exists. He explained that it is not merely about exploring and extracting minerals, but rather about the long-term prosperity of nations.

Al-Jadaan affirmed that geopolitical tensions have become a major source of uncertainty overshadowing the global economy. “Their repercussions are clearly evident in sectors with long-term investments, most notably the mining sector, which requires high stability and predictability due to its extended operating cycles,” he said.

He noted that minerals are now viewed by many countries as a matter of national security, or at least economic security, which opens the door to partnership opportunities with host countries or even with third parties. “This challenging environment presents opportunities if handled correctly by countries or investors,” he pointed out.

Al-Jadaan said that slowing growth and high interest rates pose challenges to mining investments. “This sector is poised for long-term growth despite economic and geopolitical uncertainties, as minerals have become a fundamental security and strategic element for many countries,” he said.

The 5th Future Minerals Forum (FMF 2026) began on Tuesday under the theme "Dawn of a global cause: Minerals for a new era of development," with a focus on mobilizing stakeholders to create responsible, resilient mineral supply chains that drive sustainable growth and opportunities in supplier regions, fostering collaboration for a transformative era in the minerals sector.

It is the largest international gathering of leaders, experts, specialists, and pioneers in the mining and minerals sector. The conference is attended by 100 countries, 59 international organizations, business associations and global mining leaders, to develop strategies that contribute to the development of the mining sector and enhance its sustainability.
An international framework for rare earth minerals was agreed upon to promote global cooperation and establish flexible supply chains, which contributes to securing the supply of vital minerals for future technologies.