Saudi Arabia Showcases Strategic Vision For Mining Transformation At Financial Times Summit 2025

Saudi Arabia has outlined its vision for transforming the mining and minerals sector, aiming to enhance its global influence in this field. This was highlighted during the Financial Times Metals and Mining Summit 2025 in London. The event gathered government officials, business leaders, and experts to discuss resource security, sustainable supply chains, and the mining sector's role in clean energy transition.

Eng. Turki Al-Babtain, Undersecretary for Mining Development at the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, participated in a key ministerial session. He stressed that Saudi Arabia is determined to harness its mineral wealth, valued at approximately SAR 9.4 trillion, as a significant driver of economic growth and employment.

Al-Babtain emphasized that converting natural resources into sustainable assets requires good governance, transparency, and effective regulation. He stated that the mining sector is now a cornerstone of national development, supported by stable legislation, investment guarantees, advanced infrastructure, government incentives, and a commitment to sustainability.

The Kingdom aims to double the mining sector’s GDP contribution to about SAR281.3 billion ($75 billion) by 2030. This ambition is supported by the Mining Investment Law, which enhances licensing transparency and opens over 600,000 square kilometers for exploration while providing 80 years of geological data to investors.

Saudi Arabia's advancements in mining have gained international acclaim. The country ranked 23rd globally on the 2024 Investment Attractiveness Index by Canada’s Fraser Institute. It also achieved first place in political stability worldwide, fifth in socio-economic agreements, and seventh in environmental regulation.

The Exploration Enablement Program (EEP) plays a crucial role by speeding up exploration activities and reducing investment risks. This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to strengthen its position as a global mining leader.

Riyadh is set to host the fifth annual Future Minerals Forum from January 13 to 15 under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's patronage. Organized by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, this conference will focus on "Dawn of a Global Cause," showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to advancing its mining sector.

The summit underscored Saudi Arabia's strategic plans for the mining industry as it seeks to become a global powerhouse in this sector. By focusing on sustainable practices and international cooperation, the Kingdom aims to leverage its vast mineral resources for economic prosperity.

With inputs from SPA