The industry that supplies the country with the bulk of its foreign currency earnings has run into a shortage of long-term capital and uncertainty over demand. To discuss solutions, industry leaders will gather in Skolkovo on November 12–13: the forum has invited top executives of mining holdings, officials, bankers, and equipment manufacturers. The main question is how to launch a new wave of investment in subsoil resources.
Why this matters now. Mining enterprises are operating at their limit: old deposits are being depleted, equipment is wearing out, and finding money for renewal is increasingly difficult. Without an inflow of capital into exploration and construction, the industry risks losing the production pace on which the budget and industry depend.
What will be discussed. The key block is the financial stability of companies. Participants will address tax relief, long-term lending mechanisms at acceptable rates, and guaranteed offtake for metals critical to the economy. Separately, they will discuss where to find funds for exploration and for developing new sites.
Industry topics. The agenda includes gold and coal, logistics for shipping products, and digitalization of production processes. A significant part of the discussion is devoted to import substitution: the emphasis is on domestic mining machinery and specialized equipment to reduce dependence on foreign supplies.
How it works. The program combines open and closed formats. The central event is a plenary session on state support priorities. Strategic sessions, industry meetings, and informal networking are also planned. The exhibition will showcase equipment and technological novelties geared toward enterprises’ practical needs.
Who will attend. In past years, the forum brought together executives from Nornickel, Polyus, RUSAL, EVRAZ, UMMC, Russky Ugol, Rostec, SUEK, and ALROSA. This year’s lineup promises to be just as representative.
The forum is an attempt to bring the interests of business and government together in one place. If the parties agree on workable support mechanisms and clear financing rules, the industry will have a chance at sustainable growth. If not, mining will keep solving its problems in manual mode.
Source: “Mining Industry” Forum
Image: investminingforum.ru/
