Trevor Pickett
Editor
Latest articles
MMG Advances New Rosebery Tailings Options as Tasmanian Mine Approaches 2030 Storage Limit
MMG is moving to secure the long-term operating future of its Rosebery mine in western Tasmania, exploring three tailings storage locations designed to support one of Australia’s longest-running base metals operations beyond the end of this decade. MMG is moving to secure the long-term operating future of its Rosebery mine in western Tasmania, exploring three tailings storage locations designed to support one of Australia’s longest-running base metals operations beyond the end of this decade.
MinRes to Restart Bald Hill Lithium Mine as Spodumene Market Recovers
Mineral Resources will restart its Bald Hill lithium mine in Western Australia, bringing a production-ready spodumene operation back into the market after lithium prices recovered from the downturn that forced the asset onto care and maintenance in 2024. Mining and crushing are due to begin in June, with first concentrate targeted for July.
Anglo Exits Australian Steelmaking Coal in US$3.875bn Dhilmar Deal
Anglo American has agreed to sell its Australian steelmaking coal portfolio to Dhilmar for up to US$3.875 billion, completing its exit from metallurgical coal and reshaping ownership of major Bowen Basin assets. The transaction follows the collapse of Peabody Energy’s earlier bid and comes ahead of Anglo’s planned Teck merger.
Lithium Americas Flags Tariff and Supply-Chain Cost Pressure at Thacker Pass as Nevada Lithium Build Advances
Lithium Americas has warned that tariffs, fuel escalation and Middle East-linked shipping disruption could add US$80 million to US$120 million to Phase 1 construction costs at Thacker Pass. The Nevada lithium project remains on course for late-2027 mechanical completion, with procurement above 70% and more than 1,000 personnel on site.
Electric Motor Life Improved with Greasemax Lubrication
GreaseMax single point automatic lubricators provide a continuous controlled grease output and are ideal for electric motor lubrication.
Oko West Moves into Mine-Building Phase as G Mining Advances Guyana’s Next Major Gold Operation
G Mining Ventures is building Oko West into one of the Guiana Shield’s most closely watched new gold operations, with processing plant foundations, river logistics, power infrastructure, tailings works and a majority-Guyanese workforce advancing toward first gold in the second half of 2027 and commercial production in January 2028.
US, Canada, Australia: Mining In 2026 – An MNI Snapshot
With the launch of Mining Network International (MNI) – the international publication covering the latest news and developments in three of the most consequential mining markets globally – we take a snapshot look at the current state-of-play in the US, Canada and Australia.
K92 Advances Pastefill, Tailings Filtration and Ventilation Upgrades at Kainantu
K92 Mining has advanced a major underground infrastructure program at Kainantu in Papua New Guinea, with tailings filter cake production underway, pastefill construction progressing and ventilation capacity lifted by 75%. The works are central to converting the high-grade gold-copper mine into a larger, more flexible multi-front underground operation.
Titan and Teck Target Germanium Recovery from Empire State Mine Waste Streams
Titan Mining has entered a cooperation agreement with Teck to evaluate germanium recovery from existing process streams at Empire State Mines in New York. The work could unlock a critical mineral supply pathway from material already mined and processed, linking zinc operations, waste-stream metallurgy and North American semiconductor and defence supply chains.
NSW Seismic Survey Opens New Critical Minerals Targets Across the Lachlan Fold Belt
New seismic and petrophysical data from the Lachlan Fold Belt has given explorers a deeper technical view of one of Australia’s most prospective copper, gold and critical minerals provinces. The NSW release combines crustal-scale imaging, rock-property datasets and open-access mapping to lower exploration risk across the Macquarie Arc and Cobar Basin.
Grasberg Delay Pushes Freeport’s Flagship Copper Recovery Into 2028
Freeport Indonesia has pushed full recovery of the Grasberg Block Cave mine into early 2028 after wetter underground conditions complicated ore handling and logistics. The delay tightens copper supply expectations from one of the world’s most important copper-gold districts as demand from power systems, electrification and data infrastructure continues to build.
Pan American Silver Approves La Colorada Skarn Decline Development in Mexico
Pan American Silver has approved US$265 million for the 588 Decline Project at La Colorada in Mexico, advancing underground access to the skarn system beneath its existing silver mine. The investment supports a staged expansion designed to lift peak silver output, extend mine life and add larger-scale polymetallic production.
Regis and Vault Merger Creates Major Australian Gold Producer
Regis Resources’ all-scrip acquisition of Vault Minerals would create Australia’s third-largest listed gold producer, with five operating mines in Western Australia, more than 700,000 ounces of annual gold production and a stronger balance sheet for procurement, mine-life extension and future development across one of the world’s strongest gold jurisdictions.
Erdene’s Bayan Khundii Gold Mine Reaches Commercial Production in Mongolia
Erdene’s Bayan Khundii gold mine has moved from construction into commercial production, delivering 8,527 ounces of gold in the first quarter and operating at 94% of target throughput. The milestone gives Mongolia a new high-grade open-pit producer in the Khundii Minerals District, with expansion drilling already underway nearby.
Jubilee Expands Molefe Copper Mining and Roan Processing in Zambia
Jubilee Metals is expanding its Zambian copper platform through a combined mine and processing push at Molefe, Roan and Sable. The plan links open-pit expansion, dewatering capacity and refinery feed growth, with copper output already higher year-on-year and a larger ore delivery rate targeted after July stripping completion.
Redcastle Resources Advances WA Gold Production at Queen Alexandra and Redcastle Reef
Redcastle Resources is moving from explorer to producer in Western Australia’s Eastern Goldfields after regulatory approval unlocked mining at Queen Alexandra and Redcastle Reef. Heavy equipment is arriving, blast-hole drilling is underway and ore will be toll-treated through Wiluna, giving the junior a low-capital path to first gold.
Standard Uranium Completes First Rocas Drill Program Near Key Lake
Standard Uranium has completed the first drill program at Rocas in northern Saskatchewan, intersecting anomalous radioactivity and graphitic structures across a previously untested corridor near Key Lake. The results give the Athabasca explorer a stronger technical basis for phase-two drilling while assays remain pending and uranium supply security sharpens globally.
Defense Metals Starts Wicheeda Rare Earth Drilling in British Columbia
Defense Metals has started a 6,865-metre spring drill program at Wicheeda in British Columbia, advancing one of North America’s more mature rare earth projects as western supply chains seek non-Chinese feedstock for defence, high-technology and clean energy manufacturing ahead of feasibility study, permitting and a future production decision in Canada.
MinRes Lifts Onslow Guidance as Australia’s Newest Iron Ore System Absorbs Cyclone Pressure
Mineral Resources Limited (ASX: MIN) has upgraded FY26 volume guidance for Onslow Iron after another heavy operating quarter in Western Australia’s Pilbara. The significance lies in the project’s ability to lift full-year expectations despite cyclone disruption, higher diesel costs and the continued ramp-up of a large new mine-to-port system.
Nickel Industries’ Hengjaya Rebound Shows Indonesia’s Ore Controls Reshaping Mine Economics
Nickel Industries Limited (ASX: NIC) delivered its strongest operating earnings since late 2023 as Hengjaya Mine ore sales recovered sharply in Indonesia. The significance sits in the interaction between RKAB licence volumes, stronger nickel pricing, mine output and the company’s growing integration across mining, RKEF and HPAL processing.
Arizona Metals’ Kay PEA Gives Shape to a High-Grade U.S. Polymetallic Development Path
Arizona Metals Corp. (TSX: AMC, OTCQX: AZMCF) has released a preliminary economic assessment for the Kay Mine Project in Arizona, outlining an underground development pathway for a high-grade copper-gold-zinc-silver-lead VMS deposit. The study gives the project a clearer operating framework while leaving further resource expansion open.
Warrior’s Blue Creek Completion Shifts the U.S. Steelmaking Coal Story from Build-out to Margin
Warrior Met Coal, Inc. (NYSE: HCC) has completed construction of the Blue Creek mine in Alabama, moving a major U.S. steelmaking coal investment from capital build-out into operating contribution. The project is already reshaping volumes, costs and margins as Warrior positions itself for stronger export supply into global steel markets.
Barrick Builds North American Leadership Team Around Planned Gold IPO
Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE: B, TSX: ABX) has appointed a dedicated leadership team for North American Barrick as it advances a planned IPO of its North American gold assets. The appointments place operational, legal, technical and financial control around Nevada Gold Mines, Pueblo Viejo and Fourmile ahead of the proposed listing.
FPX Moves Baptiste Deeper into Assessment as Canada’s Nickel Pipeline Narrows Toward Development
FPX Nickel Corp. (TSXV: FPX, OTCQX: FPOCF) has cleared another step in the environmental assessment pathway for the Baptiste Nickel Project in central British Columbia. The significance lies in definition and momentum, with one of Canada’s most distinctive undeveloped nickel projects moving further from concept and closer to formal project review.
Discovery’s First Quarter Points to a Larger Year Taking Shape in Timmins
Discovery Silver Corp. (TSX: DSV, OTCQX: DSVSF) produced 60,269 ounces of gold in the first quarter from its Porcupine operations in Ontario and remains on track for 260,000 to 300,000 ounces in 2026. The significance sits in Hollinger’s restart, stronger Hoyle Pond grades and a broader Timmins platform beginning to take shape.
Barrick Sharpens North American Gold Focus Ahead of Planned U.S. Listing
Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE: B, TSX: ABX) has taken another step toward separating its North American gold assets into a new listed vehicle, tightening management around one of the world’s most productive gold portfolios. The significance lies in sharper operating focus around Nevada Gold Mines and a clearer U.S. capital markets profile.
UEC Brings Burke Hollow into Production as U.S. Uranium Mining Regains Ground
Uranium Energy Corp. (NYSE American: UEC) has commenced production at Burke Hollow in South Texas, giving the company a second operating in-situ recovery platform in the United States. The significance lies in timing and structure, with domestic uranium supply growing through a hub-and-spoke model tied to existing Texas processing infrastructure.
Alliance Resource Partners Shows U.S. Coal Resilience Even as Pressure Points Widen
Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. (Nasdaq: ARLP) kept 2026 coal sales largely committed and priced despite a softer first quarter shaped by lower realised coal pricing, weather delays and an impairment at Mettiki. The significance lies in how the partnership is balancing stable contracted coal volumes against a more uneven operating backdrop.
Lynas’ March Quarter Shows How Fast Rare Earth Demand is Tightening Outside China
Lynas Rare Earths (ASX: LYC) more than doubled March quarter revenue as stronger prices, higher output and a tighter product mix lifted performance across its rare earth supply chain. The significance extends beyond the quarter, with Mt Weld remaining one of the Western world’s most strategically important non-Chinese rare earth sources.
Ora Banda’s Record Quarter Shows Davyhurst Moving Beyond Restart Status
Ora Banda’s March quarter has given Davyhurst a stronger production identity. Record output, record recoveries and a sharply higher cash position suggest the Western Australian operation is moving beyond restart language and toward a broader growth phase built on throughput, resource expansion and internal funding strength.
Agnico Moves to Build a Larger Finnish Gold Hub around Kittilä and Ikkari
Agnico Eagle’s multi-deal push in Finland would consolidate one of Europe’s more important gold districts around Kittilä and the emerging Ikkari project. The significance lies in scale, infrastructure and continuity, with the Canadian producer moving to assemble a long-life regional gold platform rather than a standalone asset.
Gold Snapshot: War Risk, Oil and Rates are Pulling Bullion in Different Directions
Gold’s recent price action has been shaped by more than safe-haven buying. The Iran war has lifted geopolitical risk but higher oil prices, inflation concerns, firmer bond yields and a stronger US dollar have repeatedly limited bullion’s upside and, at times, pushed the metal sharply lower.
USA Rare Earth’s Serra Verde Acquisition Sharpens the Push into Heavy Rare Earth Supply
USA Rare Earth’s US$2.8 billion Serra Verde deal adds a producing Brazilian rare earth mine to a rapidly expanding supply chain strategy. The transaction is significant because Serra Verde offers exposure to dysprosium and terbium, two of the more strategically important rare earths in magnets, defence systems and advanced electronics.
Norway Steps in on Fen as Europe’s Rare Earth Ambitions Move Closer to Mine Development
Norway has taken direct control of planning for the Fen rare earth deposit, accelerating one of Europe’s most significant critical minerals projects. The move follows a much larger resource estimate and signals a sharper official push to turn strategic geology into mine development as Europe seeks non-Chinese rare earth supply.
Zimbabwe’s Lithium Policy Starts to Bite as Yahua Secures Kamativi Export Quota
Zimbabwe’s new lithium export regime is beginning to take real operational shape. Yahua has secured a six-month quota for Kamativi, allowing concentrate shipments to continue under tighter state control and offering the first clear indication of how the country intends to manage lithium exports before its planned 2027 ban.
Yancoal Moves on Kestrel in $2.4 Billion Coking Coal Deal That Reshapes Its Portfolio
Yancoal has made one of the year’s most consequential coal moves, agreeing to buy an 80 per cent stake in Kestrel in Queensland. The acquisition lifts its weighting to premium hard coking coal, adds one of Australia’s most productive underground coal operations and sharpens its exposure to Asian steelmaking demand.
Congo Builds Strategic Cobalt Reserve as State Control Over Battery Metal Supply Deepens
The Democratic Republic of Congo has created a strategic cobalt reserve, giving the state a stronger hand in a market it already dominates. In a supply chain shaped by quotas, oversupply and battery demand uncertainty, the move adds a new layer of state influence to the world’s most important cobalt-producing jurisdiction.
Russia Puts $1.85 Billion Price on Seized UGC Stake Ahead of May Gold Auction
Russia has shifted a major gold-sector seizure into the sale phase, valuing its stake in UGC at about US$1.85 billion ahead of a May auction. The development sharpens attention on ownership risk in strategic jurisdictions and on how quickly state action can reset control over mining assets.
Rio Tinto Rebuilds Core Kitimat Infrastructure with New Alumina Conveyor Commissioning
Rio Tinto has commissioned a new alumina conveyor at Kitimat, replacing infrastructure dating back to the 1960s. The project is a reminder that brownfield mining and metals sites are now deep into a replacement cycle, where reliability and materials handling are becoming as commercially important as outright capacity growth.
Chile Copper Mega-Play Moves Forward as Codelco and Anglo American Advance Shared Andina-Los Bronces Pit
Chile’s next major copper growth option has taken a meaningful step forward. Codelco and Anglo American are advancing a dual-track approval strategy for a shared Andina-Los Bronces pit, a move that could unlock long-life copper supply while reducing duplicated infrastructure and creating significant future contractor demand.
Australian Coal Mining in 2026: Strong Exports, Brownfield Expansions and the End of Greenfield Projects
Australia’s coal sector remains a major force in 2026, underpinned by strong Asian export demand, stable production and a pipeline of brownfield expansion projects across New South Wales and Queensland. While thermal and metallurgical coal continue to generate significant revenue and support regional employment, political, legal and investment pressures are making new greenfield developments increasingly unlikely. With governments backing existing operations but tightening the pathway for future standalone mines, coal producers are being forced to focus on optimisation, community engagement and project resilience. MNI examines the industry’s current strength, its emerging constraints and the expansion projects shaping its next phase.
Oyu Tolgoi Underground Expansion Advances Under Rio Tinto as Global Copper Demand Intensifies
The Oyu Tolgoi copper-gold mine in Mongolia continues advancing its underground expansion under Rio Tinto’s control, positioning it as one of the world’s most significant future copper producers. Operated by Oyu Tolgoi LLC, the project is expected to deliver over 500,000 tonnes of copper annually at peak production. As global demand for copper strengthens in 2026, the operation highlights the technical complexity and strategic importance of large-scale underground mining. With ongoing development and ramp-up activity, Oyu Tolgoi remains central to both Mongolia’s economy and the global energy transition supply chain.
Cameco Ramps Up McArthur River Uranium Mine as Nuclear Demand Surges
Cameco is increasing production at the McArthur River uranium mine in Canada as global demand for nuclear energy strengthens. The restart marks a significant shift in uranium markets and highlights renewed investment in nuclear fuel supply chains.
Anglo American Platinum Expands Mogalakwena Mine to Boost Global Platinum Supply
Anglo American Platinum is advancing expansion works at the Mogalakwena Mine in South Africa, targeting increased production of platinum group metals. As global demand for PGMs strengthens due to automotive and hydrogen applications, the project is positioned to enhance long-term supply. The expansion reflects renewed confidence in platinum markets and creates new opportunities for contractors across mining, processing and infrastructure.
The Weekly Macro Commodity Wrap: Copper Surges on Supply Deficits as Nickel Market Restructures
The first week of April 2026 delivered intense volatility across global commodity markets. While gold faced significant turbulence amid shifting macroeconomic sentiment, copper surged on severe supply constraints and iron ore stabilised. Meanwhile, the global nickel sector continues its painful structural bifurcation.
Newmont Completes Executive Transition
Newmont completes its executive transition as Tom Palmer retires, leaving Chief Executive Officer Natascha Viljoen to manage the massive newly expanded global gold asset portfolio.
BHP Group Prepares for Major Leadership Shift
BHP prepares for a major leadership transition as Mike Henry steps down handing the chief executive role to Brandon Craig to drive global copper expansion.
Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor Urges Australia to Fast Track Mining and Gas Projects Amid Fuel Crisis
As Australia grapples with an escalating national fuel crisis, Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, has called for an immediate acceleration of domestic mining, coal and gas projects. The Coalition proposes slashing regulatory red tape to boost resource sector productivity, provide urgent cost of living relief and secure the national energy grid.
State Capital Dominates Global Mining as Sovereign Wealth Replaces Private Investment
The global mining industry is experiencing a profound structural transformation as sovereign wealth funds and state sponsored entities rapidly displace conventional private equity. Driven by the urgent need to secure critical mineral supply chains, governments are deploying unprecedented volumes of patient capital into tier one resource projects globally. From Middle Eastern petrodollars, acquiring massive copper reserves in Africa, to the United States government directly underwriting domestic antimony production, the cost of capital is now dictated by geopolitical strategy rather than pure free market economics. For mining professionals, navigating this new financial landscape is essential for future project viability.
Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026 Spotlights the Continent as a Premier Investment Hub
The Investing in African Mining Indaba held its highly anticipated 2026 event at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in early February. Drawing record attendance the conference underscored the strategic importance of the African continent in the global energy transition. Ministers from across the region outlined bold new frameworks designed to attract foreign direct investment while ensuring local beneficiation. The event confirmed that Africa is no longer viewed solely through a risk lens but is increasingly recognised as an essential engine for global supply chain security.
PDAC 2026 Concludes in Toronto with Unprecedented Focus on Global Critical Minerals
The Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada has successfully concluded its 2026 convention in Toronto. Attracting over 25,000 delegates from around the globe. The event solidified its status as the premier networking and deal making hub for the mineral exploration sector. This year the narrative shifted heavily away from traditional precious metals to centre entirely on securing critical mineral supply chains. Government delegations were notably active with major sovereign funds seeking direct project partnerships. For investors PDAC 2026 provided the definitive roadmap for global capital deployment over the coming year.
PLS Group Pushes Forward with P1000 Expansion to Dominate Global Lithium Supply
Despite extreme volatility in the global lithium market PLS Group is relentlessly executing its P1000 expansion project at the massive Pilgangoora operation in Western Australia. Formerly known as Pilbara Minerals the company rebranded in late 2025 to reflect its growing global portfolio. By pushing nameplate capacity toward one-million tonnes per annum of spodumene concentrate, the operator is structurally lowering its unit costs and fortifying its position as a dominant global supplier. For the investment community, PLS Group is demonstrating how a fortress balance sheet and absolute scale can insulate a pure play operator from commodity price troughs.
Barrick Gold Advances Reko Diq Copper-Gold Mega-Project Amidst Global Supply Deficits
As the global copper supply deficit tightens, Barrick Gold is aggressively advancing its Reko Diq copper-gold mega-project in Pakistan. Representing one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold porphyry deposits in the world, the project is undergoing rigorous capital and timeline modelling. With an anticipated multi-decade mine life and a phased development approach, Reko Diq is set to fundamentally reshape Barrick’s base metals portfolio. For institutional investors, the successful execution of this tier-one asset in a frontier jurisdiction will serve as a definitive test of Barrick’s geopolitical risk management and capital allocation strategies.
Optimising Heavy Lift Logistics: Strategic Crane Selection for Mine Site Maintenance, Expansion and Shutdowns
The scale of modern mining components has rendered the general-purpose site crane obsolete. As processing plants expand to counter declining ore grades site engineers are managing unprecedented lifting challenges. From replacing massive SAG mill gearboxes during critical turnarounds to laying kilometres of overland conveyors the demand for specialised lifting kinematics has never been higher. Understanding the distinct operational envelopes of modern telecrawlers, high-capacity all-terrain models and agile rough-terrain cranes is now a fundamental requirement for stripping out costly operational delays and safeguarding site personnel.
Santana Minerals Executes NZ$115M Komatsu Fleet Deal to Fast-Track Bendigo-Ophir Under Owner-Miner Model
Santana Minerals has fundamentally altered the development trajectory of its Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project by securing a NZ$115 million mobile mining equipment fleet directly from Komatsu. This aggressive procurement strategy is designed to drastically accelerate site works ahead of a fast-track approval decision expected in late October 2026. By bypassing traditional contract mining arrangements CEO Damian Spring confirmed the company is shifting to an owner-miner model paired with a residential workforce. This strategic pivot strips out embedded contractor margins, structurally lowers operational costs and sets a new benchmark for capital efficiency among mid-tier gold developers in Australasia.
Geopolitics Over Geology: US Deploys $10 Billion 'Project Vault' to Corner Critical Minerals Supply
The United States has executed an unprecedented intervention into the global critical minerals market by launching "Project Vault." Backed by the Export-Import Bank of the United States, this initiative establishes a heavily funded domestic strategic reserve for critical minerals. The board approved a direct loan of up to $10 billion to finance the extraction, processing and stockpiling of energy transition metals. Concurrently, the State Department signed 11 new bilateral frameworks with nations including Argentina, Peru and the Philippines to lock in end-to-end supply chains. For mining executives, this signals a definitive shift from free-market dynamics to state-sponsored industrial policy.
Teck’s QB2 Copper Project Advances Through Ramp-Up as Strong Prices Drive Performance Focus
Teck Resources continues ramping up its Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 (QB2) copper project in Chile, one of the largest new copper developments globally. With expected production of up to 300,000 tonnes annually, the project is central to future supply. As of March 2026, commissioning challenges typical of large-scale operations are being addressed, while elevated copper prices are increasing pressure to reach full capacity. Operating within Chile’s evolving regulatory environment under President Gabriel Boric, QB2 highlights the complexity of modern mining projects and their importance in meeting growing global demand for copper.
BHP Advances Jansen Potash Project as Global Fertiliser Demand Drives Strategic Expansion
BHP’s Jansen Potash Project in Canada is moving steadily toward production, positioning the company as a major player in global fertiliser markets. With Stage 1 capacity targeting over 4 million tonnes annually, the project is gaining importance amid strong demand and constrained global supply. Supported by stable Canadian policy settings, Jansen represents a long-term strategic shift for BHP into agriculture-linked commodities. As potash prices remain firm in 2026, the project is expected to play a key role in global food security while creating significant opportunities for contractors and suppliers across mining, processing and infrastructure.
Cobre Panamá Crisis Intensifies in 2026 as Presidential Standoff Reshapes Global Copper Supply
The ongoing shutdown of the Cobre Panamá copper mine continues to disrupt global supply in 2026, with no resolution yet reached between First Quantum Minerals and the Panamanian government. Producing up to 350,000 tonnes annually before closure, the mine’s suspension has tightened global markets and elevated copper prices. With President José Raúl Mulino maintaining a firm stance on sovereignty and environmental conditions, the dispute highlights the growing influence of political risk in mining. The outcome will have lasting implications for global copper supply, investor confidence and the future of large-scale mining developments in emerging jurisdictions.
White Gold: How Salt Fields Are Powering the Global Energy Transition
Salt production, one of the world’s oldest extractive industries, is undergoing a significant transformation as global demand for critical minerals reshapes the value of brine-based resources.
Newmont and Barrick Optimise Nevada Gold Mines JV to Boost Efficiency and Margins
Newmont Corporation is advancing operational efficiency across the Nevada Gold Mines joint venture, the world’s largest gold mining complex. In partnership with Barrick Mining Corporation, the strategy focuses on asset optimisation, processing improvements and cost control. With Tier 1 assets such as Carlin and Cortez, the JV is delivering strong production while improving margins. The initiative is creating new opportunities for contractors in underground development, processing optimisation and digital systems as the operation continues to evolve.
Rio Tinto Optimises Pilbara Network to Sustain Record Iron Ore Output Amid Surging Asian Demand
Rio Tinto is advancing optimisation across its Pilbara iron ore network to maintain record export volumes driven by strong Asian demand. With integrated upgrades across mine, rail and port infrastructure, the company is focusing on debottlenecking existing assets rather than new greenfield developments. Key operations such as Gudai-Darri are central to this strategy. The shift presents immediate opportunities for contractors in maintenance, automation and infrastructure upgrades, reinforcing the Pilbara’s position as the world’s most advanced bulk mining system.
Global Mining Capital Flows Shift to Long-Life Tier-One Assets as Supply Risks Intensify
Mining investment is increasingly concentrated on long-life, tier-one assets as companies respond to rising global demand, declining ore grades and tightening supply. Major producers are prioritising projects with multi-decade production profiles in stable jurisdictions. This shift reflects a strategic move toward long-term value creation and predictable returns. With capital flowing into copper, base metals and critical minerals, investors and executives are reshaping portfolios around scale, longevity and operational resilience, fundamentally changing the structure of the global mining industry.
Artificial Intelligence Expands Across Mining Operations Beyond Exploration
AI is transforming mining operations, from predictive maintenance to processing optimisation. Companies are leveraging data to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance decision-making.
WA Nickel Industry Restructures as Market Conditions Force Operational Reset
Western Australia’s nickel sector is undergoing a significant reset as operators respond to pricing pressure and global competition. Asset rationalisation, care and maintenance decisions and potential sales are reshaping the industry landscape. The shift is creating both challenges and strategic opportunities.
ESG Pressures Intensify as Global Investors Shift Mining Capital Allocation
Environmental, social and governance expectations are reshaping how capital flows into the mining sector. Institutional investors are increasingly scrutinising project sustainability, pushing operators to embed ESG into core design and operations. This shift is influencing approvals, financing and long-term viability, particularly for large-scale developments. For mining companies, strong ESG performance is no longer optional but a prerequisite for accessing capital and maintaining stakeholder confidence.
El Abra Expansion Highlights Rising Costs and Complexity in Global Copper Mining
The planned expansion of the El Abra copper operation by Freeport-McMoRan underscores the growing capital intensity of copper projects. With production targeted to triple and desalination infrastructure required, the project reflects new realities in mine design. Water scarcity, energy demand and infrastructure integration are driving costs higher while creating long-term opportunities for engineering and construction contractors.
Queensland Fast-Tracks Eva Copper Project to Boost Australia’s Critical Minerals Output
Queensland has accelerated development of the Eva Copper Project, reinforcing Australia’s push into critical minerals. Backed by Harmony Gold, the project is expected to deliver up to 60,000 tonnes of copper annually while generating significant regional employment. With streamlined approvals and strong infrastructure access, Eva represents a new wave of mid-tier copper developments. As global demand rises, the project highlights growing opportunities for contractors, suppliers and technical service providers across construction, processing and long-term operations.
Automated Lubrication
GreaseMax delivers a constant flow of pressurised lubrication to bearings - even while the machine is in operation; reducing maintenance costs and expensive downtime. It is beautiful in its simplicity.
Celebrating The Shared Values And Future Prosperity Of Canada And Australia
Minerals Council of Australia Chief Executive Officer, Tania Constable, commented that, "The visit to Australia by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney demonstrates our strong and abiding shared values and the common bonds between our two nations on critical minerals and defence."
Minerals Council Highlights Mining’s Tax Contribution and Community Investment
The Minerals Council of Australia has renewed its focus on the scale of taxation paid by the mining sector, emphasising the industry’s role as one of the largest contributors to government revenue and regional economic development
Pilbara Port Throughput Surge Drives Expansion Focus Across Western Australia
Western Australia’s Pilbara ports continue to operate at near-capacity levels, with iron ore exports reaching 55.9 million tonnes in February 2026, reinforcing the region’s critical role in global bulk commodity supply chains.
Frieda River Project Gains Strategic Backing
The Frieda River copper-gold project, led by PanAust, a subsidiary of Guangxi Nonferrous Metals Group, is receiving renewed attention as planning and stakeholder engagement activities progress.
Martabe Gold Mine Expansion Enhances Processing Capacity
The Martabe Gold Mine in North Sumatra, operated by PT Agincourt Resources, continues to advance expansion works aimed at increasing processing capacity and extending mine life.
Cedar LNG and Associated Mining Infrastructure Drive Demand
While primarily an energy project, the Cedar LNG development in British Columbia is creating downstream impacts across mining infrastructure and resource supply chains.
Resolution Copper Project Advances Toward Federal Decision
The Resolution Copper Project in Arizona, operated by Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP, continues to move toward a critical federal permitting decision.
McPhee Creek Iron Ore Project Moves Toward Development Phase
Development momentum is building at the McPhee Creek Iron Ore Project in Western Australia, led by Atlas Iron, a subsidiary of Hancock Prospecting. The project is progressing through final approvals and early works, positioning it as a key near-term addition to Pilbara production capacity.
Iran war prompts US aluminium buyers to seek alternate markets
Due to the conflict in Iran, the aluminium price on the London Metal Exchange hit a four-year high of just over $3,500 per metric tonne this week, its highest level since March 2022.
Mining Maintenance in 2026: Global Best Practice, Operational Challenges and the Path to Higher Reliability
Mining maintenance has become one of the most critical operational priorities for the global resources sector. At major operations run by companies such as BHP Group, Rio Tinto and Anglo American, maintenance programs now account for up to 45 percent of total operating expenditure. As equipment grows larger and mines become increasingly automated, companies are adopting predictive maintenance, digital monitoring and advanced reliability engineering to maximise equipment uptime. This article examines global best practice in mining maintenance, the challenges facing modern mine sites, and how technology, suppliers and new maintenance strategies are transforming reliability and cost control across the industry.
Wafi-Golpu Project: One of the World’s Most Significant Copper-Gold Developments Moves Closer to Reality
One of the largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits in the Asia-Pacific region, the Wafi-Golpu Project in Papua New Guinea is moving steadily toward development. Backed by global mining leaders Newmont Corporation and Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited, the project could transform the region’s mining economy and generate major opportunities for suppliers and contractors.
Pani Gold Mine Achieves First Pour as Indonesia’s New Gold Producer Emerges
The Pani Gold Mine in Gorontalo Province has officially entered production following its first gold pour in February 2026. Backed by Merdeka Copper Gold, the project is rapidly evolving into one of Indonesia’s largest new gold operations, with expansion plans targeting annual production of up to 500,000 ounces.
U.S. Lithium’s Next Chapter: Expansion of the Silver Peak Mine
The Silver Peak lithium mine in Esmeralda County, Nevada, the only producing lithium operation in the U.S., has received federal approval for a major expansion. Owned by Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), the project will increase brine extraction, lithium recovery, and processing capacity, bolstering domestic supply for electric vehicles and battery storage. The expansion supports national critical mineral strategies and creates opportunities for contractors, equipment suppliers, and environmental service providers. Construction is expected within the next 12–24 months, enhancing Albemarle’s production, profitability, and the broader U.S. economy by reducing reliance on imported lithium.
Rhodes Ridge Iron Ore Project
The Rhodes Ridge Iron Ore Project in the Pilbara is emerging as one of the most significant future iron ore developments in Australia. Extensive exploration and feasibility work over many years has confirmed a resource base measured in billions of tonnes of iron ore.
Maximised – Set and Forget Single-Point Lubrication
As mining operators focus more sharply on reliability, cost control and safety, lubrication strategies are receiving renewed attention. Continuous automatic lubrication systems such as GreaseMax, represent a practical, proven solution to long-standing lubrication challenges. By delivering clean grease consistently (over a fixed period of time), purging contaminants and reducing reliance on manual intervention, GreaseMax plays a critical role in extending asset life, improving reliability and lowering total cost of ownership across mining operations worldwide.
Larvotto Resources Accelerates Hillgrove Antimony-Gold Project
Strategic Western Supply in a Tightening Global Market
Iron Ore Markets Stabilise After Volatile Quarter
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
New Lithium Discovery Could Reshape Battery Supply Chains
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
The Future of Sustainable Mine Rehabilitation
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Underground Mining Techniques Evolve for Deeper Deposits
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Gold Exploration Activity Rises Across Western Australia
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
New Lithium Discovery Could Reshape Battery Supply Chains
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
How Automation Is Changing Open Pit Mining
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Global Copper Demand Surges as Electrification Accelerates
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Global Copper Demand Surges as Electrification Accelerates
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
New Lithium Discovery Could Reshape Battery Supply Chains
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Global Copper Demand Surges as Electrification Accelerates
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Underground Mining Techniques Evolve for Deeper Deposits
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Gold Exploration Activity Rises Across Western Australia
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
New Lithium Discovery Could Reshape Battery Supply Chains
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Uranium Projects Return as Nuclear Interest Grows
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Underground Mining Techniques Evolve for Deeper Deposits
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Iron Ore Markets Stabilise After Volatile Quarter
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Iron Ore Markets Stabilise After Volatile Quarter
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Gold Exploration Activity Rises Across Western Australia
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
The Future of Sustainable Mine Rehabilitation
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
How Automation Is Changing Open Pit Mining
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Rare Earth Elements: The Silent Backbone of Modern Tech
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
New Lithium Discovery Could Reshape Battery Supply Chains
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Gold Exploration Activity Rises Across Western Australia
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
The Future of Sustainable Mine Rehabilitation
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Rare Earth Elements: The Silent Backbone of Modern Tech
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Rare Earth Elements: The Silent Backbone of Modern Tech
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Global Copper Demand Surges as Electrification Accelerates
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Nickel Prices React to EV Manufacturing Slowdown
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Nickel Prices React to EV Manufacturing Slowdown
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
How Automation Is Changing Open Pit Mining
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Uranium Projects Return as Nuclear Interest Grows
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Global Copper Demand Surges as Electrification Accelerates
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Gold Exploration Activity Rises Across Western Australia
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
How Automation Is Changing Open Pit Mining
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Iron Ore Markets Stabilise After Volatile Quarter
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Uranium Projects Return as Nuclear Interest Grows
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Uranium Projects Return as Nuclear Interest Grows
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
The Future of Sustainable Mine Rehabilitation
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
New Lithium Discovery Could Reshape Battery Supply Chains
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Nickel Prices React to EV Manufacturing Slowdown
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Nickel Prices React to EV Manufacturing Slowdown
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Rare Earth Elements: The Silent Backbone of Modern Tech
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Underground Mining Techniques Evolve for Deeper Deposits
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
The Future of Sustainable Mine Rehabilitation
This article is generated for testing purposes. It provides placeholder content intended to simulate real mining industry reporting, analysis, and commentary. Data, insights, and…
Major Expansion at Highland Valley Copper
A Multi-Billion-Dollar Investment to Support Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy. Teck Resources Limited (TSX: TECK.A/TECK.B; NYSE: TECK) has formally approved and advanced construction of the Highland Valley Copper (HVC) Mine Life Extension (MLE) project in British Columbia, marking one of the most significant mining investments in Canadian history.