Saudi minister calls for policy, investment and technology integration to meet rising critical minerals demand

SPA

Riyadh, January 24, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef said meeting rapidly growing global demand for critical minerals requires integrating government policy, long-term investment and advanced technologies, alongside stronger supply chains and infrastructure.

Alkhorayef made the remarks during a dialogue session on the future of minerals at the Saudi House pavilion on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, the ministry said.

The session discussed the outlook for the global mining and minerals sector and the role of governments and the private sector in aligning regulatory frameworks, investment and technology with rising minerals demand.

Alkhorayef said demand is being driven not only by renewable energy but increasingly by technological advances, including artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.

Technology is also central to improving exploration and production efficiency, strengthening safety and sustainability and reducing costs, he said.

Governments can support the sector by streamlining licensing procedures, developing regulatory and legislative frameworks and introducing financing solutions suited to the long-term nature of mining investments, Alkhorayef said. He added that governments also help by supporting technology ecosystems, developing human capabilities and providing infrastructure needed to connect supply chains to global markets.

Alkhorayef highlighted Saudi Arabia’s experience in building what he described as an integrated, investment-attractive mining ecosystem, citing a risk-reduction approach through measures including geological survey programmes, environmental standards and infrastructure development. Those steps have accelerated licensing and strengthened competitiveness of the investment environment, he said.

The Kingdom is also working to link mining with industry and invest in midstream and downstream value chains to strengthen its role as a regional hub for mineral processing and contribute to diversifying global supply chains, he added.

Alkhorayef said technology will be a pillar for the future of mining and minerals, with current efforts focused on expanding the use of big data, remote mining, digital twins and efficient energy management, while promoting innovation and recycling.

The ministry said the session formed part of Saudi Arabia’s broader engagement at the 2026 World Economic Forum, as it participates in international discussions on the future of the global economy and supply chains.