Global Minerals Demand Driven By Policy, Investment And Technology At Davos 2026

Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef stated that meeting rising global demand for critical minerals depends on close alignment between public policies, long-term capital, and technology. Alkhorayef linked this integration to stable supply chains, reliable infrastructure, and the wider global economic shift towards new industrial and energy systems.

Alkhorayef spoke during a dialogue on the future of minerals at the Saudi House pavilion, held alongside the 2026 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos. The session gathered international participants to examine how governments and private companies can respond to the fast growth in mineral consumption worldwide.

The discussion focused on the future shape of the global mining and minerals sector and how its expansion supports economic transitions. Participants examined the interaction between regulation, investment flows, and new technologies. They also assessed how cooperation between states and industry can keep supply in line with forecasts for mineral needs.

The minister explained that mining is passing through a qualitative transformation at international level. Demand for minerals is no longer driven mainly by renewable energy goals. According to Alkhorayef, further pressure comes from artificial intelligence development, advanced manufacturing trends, and wider technological progress across multiple industrial fields.

Alkhorayef underlined that technology now stands at the centre of modern mining activity. He said digital tools improve exploration accuracy and production efficiency, raise safety standards, and support environmental performance. Technology also enables lower operational costs, allowing projects to remain viable while meeting stricter social and environmental expectations.

The minister noted that national governments have a pivotal task in guiding this shift. Authorities can simplify licensing systems, update regulatory and legislative frameworks, and design long-term financing tools that match the extended life cycles of mining projects. These steps help reduce risk and encourage private investment in critical minerals.

He added that public institutions also help develop technology ecosystems and build skilled workforces. Governments provide key infrastructure connecting mining regions to global markets, including transport corridors, energy networks, and export facilities. Such support underpins reliable mineral supply chains that serve both domestic industries and international partners.

Future of minerals and Saudi Arabia mining sector strategy

Alkhorayef highlighted Saudi Arabia’s experience in forming an integrated and investment-attractive mining ecosystem. The Kingdom follows a risk-reduction approach that includes extensive geological survey programmes, strict compliance with environmental standards, and continuous infrastructure development. These measures have shortened licensing timelines and increased competitiveness for investors in the Saudi mining sector.

The minister explained that Saudi Arabia aims to maximise value from mining by linking it with the industrial sector. The Kingdom invests in midstream and downstream value chains, turning extracted minerals into processed materials. This approach supports Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional centre for mineral processing and diversifies global supply networks.

Alkhorayef stressed that technology will remain a core pillar for the future of mining and minerals. Current sector priorities include using big data, remote mining operations, digital twins, and efficient energy management systems. He also pointed to innovation in recycling, noting that mineral resources can be reused in a sustainable manner over time.

The minister’s participation in Davos formed part of Saudi Arabia’s broader engagement at the 2026 World Economic Forum. This presence reflects the Kingdom’s interest in global economic discussions and its position as a reliable partner for supply chain stability and sustainable economic growth across different regions and markets.

With inputs from SPA