Global Scans · Mining · Weekly Summary

• [New] Argentina is gaining prominence as a key destination for mining investment, particularly given its potential in lithium and other minerals critical to the energy transition. World Fertilizer
• [New] Global mining exploration investment is projected to surpass $15 billion by 2026, reflecting a 12% increase from 2024 levels. Farmonaut
• [New] By 2026, over 70% of mining companies will adopt integrated tool management systems for enhanced operational efficiency. Farmonaut
• [New] By 2026, mining sector investments driven by Aramco's Riyadh HQ are projected to reach $32 billion in Saudi Arabia. Farmonaut
• [New] Australia represents the most significant allied nation lithium partnership opportunity, with substantial hard-rock spodumene reserves and established mining expertise. Discovery Alert
• [New] The African Continental Free Trade Area provides frameworks for regional economic integration that could support coordinated mining development across multiple nations simultaneously. Discovery Alert
• [New] Japan begins deep-sea mining trials: Tests begin near Minamitori Island despite scientific warnings, business opposition and significant financial risks to the global economy. Business for Nature
• [New] The potential for a coordinated Canada-Mexico critical minerals strategy is significant, especially given the strong presence of Canadian mining firms in Mexico. Wilson Center
• [New] The Trump deep-sea mining strategy represents a comprehensive approach to critical mineral security that could reshape both domestic industrial capabilities and global resource markets. Discovery Alert
• [New] Water scarcity represents an existential threat to mining operations, with approximately 75% of global mining operations located in water-stressed regions. Discovery Alert
• Mining will remain Mongolia's core growth engine in 2026. East Asia Forum
• Mongolia's economy is projected to grow by 5.6% in 2026, supported by mining strength and supply-driven momentum, even as inflation remains elevated and fiscal pressures mount. East Asia Forum
• The Democratic Republic of Congo's position as the dominant cobalt producer creates systemic vulnerabilities for electric vehicle manufacturers, while state-owned mining enterprises increasingly leverage regulatory authority to influence foreign investment flows. Discovery Alert
• Several significant investment projects will be highlighted, including desalination for mining expansion programs in Chile, the Northern Chile Water Supply Corridor integrating multi-user desalination pipelines, and Peru's Coastal Desalination PPPs for Lima, Ilo, and southern industrial clusters. MEXC
• Human-technology collaboration models will define successful mining operations in the coming decade. Discovery Alert
• Rare earth elements represent the benchmark case for critical mineral supply chain vulnerability, with Chinese dominance spanning mining, processing, and manufacturing applications. Discovery Alert
• Mining operations have focused on a three-year accelerated stripping program to unlock higher grade ore starting in 2027. GlobeNewswire
• SpaceX will need to make mining and factories on the moon in order to increase space based AI satellites from 100-1000 Gigawatts per year to 10 to 1000 terawatts per year. NextBigFuture.com

Last updated: 13 March 2026