#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Future Minerals Forum #minerals

The Future Minerals Forum (FMF) is set to host its fifth and most significant edition in Riyadh from January 13 to 15, 2026. This three-day event, themed "Dawn of a Global Cause," is expected to attract over 500 leaders from governments, multilateral organizations, and universities. The forum aims to forge a collective ambition for advancing responsible mineral development and creating new economic opportunities in both supplier and consumer nations. The program combines high-level political discussions with practical investment and innovation sessions, aiming to accelerate progress across the global mineral ecosystem.

Highlights of the FMF 2026 Agenda

• - Largest Ministerial Roundtable: The forum will feature its fifth ministerial roundtable focusing on minerals, attended by over 100 government representatives, more than 70 international organizations, and notable CEOs from the industry. This gathering is designed to foster collaboration and drive significant initiatives.
• - Partnership with McKinsey: Participants will have a chance to analyze the inaugural report of the Future Minerals Barometer, which tracks industry trends, leadership sentiment, and overall reputation. This critical analysis will inform discussions and strategies moving forward.
• - Mineral Investment Sessions: Exclusive, closed-door sessions aimed at both new and existing investors are set to be launched, highlighting the opportunities within the mineral sector.
• - Funding Gateway: In partnership with BMO, a new funding initiative will connect institutional investors and family businesses with international mining companies seeking capital for growth. This is a significant step toward enhancing financial collaboration in the mining sector.
• - Inaugural MinGen Workshops: These workshops are tailored for young professionals and women in the mining industry, providing an interactive space for networking and leadership development.

Interactive Sessions and Key Discussions

The first day will commence with an international exhibition and interactive knowledge exchange sessions, where industry leaders will provide insights into global mineral sourcing prospects. As the second and third days unfold, the forum will host leadership roundtables, including a series focused on trade and investment opportunities in emerging supplier regions across Africa, Latin America, and Central Asia. Confirmed speakers include prominent figures like Dominic Barton, Chairman of Rio Tinto; Bob Wilt, CEO of Maaden; and Catherine Raw, Director of Development at BHP, among others.

Riyadh as a Global Hub

FMF 2026 aims to consolidate Riyadh's position as a global hub for dialogues surrounding minerals, investments, and innovation, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable mineral future. As Ali Al-Mutairi, Executive Director of the FMF, emphasizes, this dynamic and impact-focused platform is a vital reason why governments and business leaders consistently return to the FMF.

With a compelling agenda and high-profile participants, the upcoming Future Minerals Forum not only signifies a gathering of industry leaders but also represents a critical step towards shaping a responsible and prosperous future for the global minerals sector.