The global mining sector continues to see strong momentum across major project development, exploration activity and strategic investment in critical minerals. From major copper agreements in South America to expanding exploration programmes across Africa, companies are positioning themselves to meet rising demand driven by electrification and the energy transition. At the same time, governments and industry leaders are advancing policy frameworks and infrastructure to support long term supply security, while corporate leadership changes signal the next phase of growth for key players in the sector.

Major Projects

Anglo American & Codelco Finalise Copper Agreement

Anglo American and Codelco have finalised an agreement to jointly develop the Los Bronces and Andina copper operations in Chile. The integrated mine plan is expected to unlock around 2.7 million tonnes of additional copper production while improving operational efficiencies across both assets. The partnership marks a significant step in maximising output from one of the world’s key copper regions.

Koryx Copper Advances Zambia Exploration Portfolio

Koryx Copper continues to progress exploration activities across its Zambian projects, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its copper resource base in the region. Ongoing work highlights the company’s focus on identifying new mineralisation opportunities and supporting long term production growth within one of Africa’s most established copper belts.

Wia Gold Identifies New Deep Target at Kokoseb Project, Namibia

Wia Gold has announced new drilling results that have identified a significant deep target at its Kokoseb Gold Project in Namibia. The discovery supports continued advancement toward a Definitive Feasibility Study and strengthens Kokoseb’s position as a high potential emerging gold development within the region.

Serval Resources Expands African Exploration Activity

Serval Resources has outlined new exploration programmes across Namibia, Botswana and Côte d’Ivoire. Planned drilling campaigns will target copper mineralisation within the Kaoko Basin and the Kalahari Copper Belt, reflecting sustained investment in high potential African exploration jurisdictions.

Policy & Regulation

European Union Accelerates Critical Minerals Projects

The European Commission is continuing efforts to fast track permitting for key critical minerals projects, particularly those focused on lithium, graphite and cobalt. The initiative is designed to strengthen domestic supply chains and reduce reliance on imports, though concerns have been raised around environmental impacts, particularly water usage in mining regions.

Zambia and United States Expand Critical Minerals Infrastructure Programme

Zambia and the United States have agreed to expand a $491 million infrastructure programme aimed at supporting critical minerals development. The initiative focuses on improving logistics linked to the Lobito Corridor, a strategic export route for copper and cobalt that is expected to play a key role in future supply chains.

Corporate Moves

Codelco Appoints Jorge Gómez as CEO

Codelco has appointed Jorge Gómez as its new Chief Executive Officer. Previously CEO of Collahuasi, Gómez will lead the state owned copper producer as it focuses on improving operational performance and advancing major growth projects following recent governance and reporting reforms.

Mineral Resources Prepares Leadership Transition

Mineral Resources is preparing for a leadership transition, with Darren Killeen expected to take over as CEO from founder Chris Ellison. Killeen has played a central role in the development of key assets including Onslow Iron, positioning him to lead the company’s next phase of growth.

Lundin Mining Highlights Growth Strategy and Board Evolution

Lundin Mining has outlined its long term growth strategy during its Capital Markets Day, emphasising the Vicuña copper district in Argentina as a core development focus alongside continued shareholder returns. The company is also evolving its leadership structure following recent board appointments, including Michael Steinmann.

Global Mining Landscape

Rio Tinto Targets Rapid Lithium Growth

Rio Tinto has identified lithium as its fastest growing business segment following its acquisition of Arcadium Lithium. The company is positioning itself as a key player in the global battery minerals market, reflecting increasing demand driven by the energy transition and electrification trends.

Major Projects - Copper

Insight beyond search. Follow for key global mining news and major project updates from around the world.