The 21st edition of PwC's "Mine 2024" report offers a detailed analysis of the current landscape and future prospects of the global mining industry. Among other conclusions, the document highlights the fundamental role of major companies in the sector in addressing global challenges such as food security, the transition to a low-carbon economy, and the growing demand for infrastructure and consumer goods.
The report highlights a complex year for the global mining industry, despite increased production. In 2023, revenues were US$844 billion, a decrease of 7% compared to 2022, while EBITDA contracted by 26% to US$216 billion. Net profits fell by 44%, reaching US$89 billion. The outlook for 2024 is not optimistic, with an estimated revenue decline of 6%, a reduction in EBITDA of 21%, and a 36% drop in net profits.
Technological innovation, especially the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), is essential to improving productivity and sustainability in mining. AI-based systems are revolutionizing various aspects of mining operations, from precision in metal separation to logistics optimization. Additionally, urban mining or recycling of metals, such as copper and platinum group metals (PGM), is gaining importance, helping to reduce the environmental footprint and improve resource efficiency.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
Mergers and acquisitions continue to be a fundamental strategy for mining companies in their quest to maintain a competitive edge and secure essential resources for future growth. In 2023, the total value of deals in the sector increased, with a significant focus on critical minerals such as copper and lithium, essential for renewable energy applications and advanced technologies.
Similarly, M&A decisions are increasingly influenced by sustainability factors, which is why more and more companies are investing in renewable energy projects and decarbonization initiatives.
Commitment to Sustainability
The "Mine 2024" report highlights the critical role of mining in global food security. Essential minerals used in fertilizers, water treatment, and soil improvement are crucial for agricultural productivity. This is why mining companies are investing in sustainable technologies and processes, including renewable energies and efficient water use, to meet sustainability goals and improve operational efficiency.
The industry is adopting urban mining to reduce its environmental footprint and improve resource efficiency. Metal reprocessing reinforces responsible production practices, responding to the growing demand for environmentally conscious production methods.
"In a challenging global context, the adoption of innovative technologies and sustainable practices is not only crucial for the survival of the mining industry but also fundamental for its future growth. We believe that the integration of artificial intelligence and urban mining are essential steps towards a more efficient and responsible mining industry, aligned with sustainable development goals," concluded Leonardo Viglione, partner at PwC Argentina.
Join our mining community!
Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive news, insights, and updates on the mining industry and Panorama Minero's latest initiatives.
Lithium in South America 2024: The Mineral of the Energy Transition Gains Prominence on the National Development Agenda
Governors from Argentina’s northwest, alongside international representatives, diplomats, business leaders, and the country’s Secretary of Mining, inaugurated the "13th International Seminar on Lithium in South America," a key event organized by Panorama Minero in Jujuy Province, drawing over 1,500 attendees on its first day. Since its founding in 2011, the event has established itself as a leading platform to discuss lithium's role in the energy transition and its potential to drive the region’s economic and social development. Experts agreed that there are solid reasons to expect a favorable outlook for the sector, despite the current price downturn.
Arcadium Lithium Confirms Contact with Rio Tinto for Possible Acquisition
Lithium chemical producer Arcadium Lithium plc (NYSE: ALTM, ASX: LTM) has announced that it has been approached by Rio Tinto regarding a potential acquisition. The approach is considered non-binding, meaning there is no certainty that an agreement will be reached.
The Event of the Year in Lithium: A Meeting of Industry Leaders on October 9 and 10
Jujuy will take center stage at the 13th edition of the International Seminar: Lithium in South America, the pioneering event in the lithium sector, organized by the specialized media Panorama Minero since 2011. As in previous years, it is expected to gather thousands of representatives linked to one of the most attractive segments of both Argentine and global mining.
Mining Exports Represented 9.1% of Total Argentine Exports
Mineral exports during August 2024 reached US$550 million, accumulating a total of US$2.736 billion in the first eight months of the year. This information comes from a recent report by the National Mining Secretariat, presented at the end of September.
San Juan: Challenger Gold Targets Gold Production at Hualilán in Q2 2025
The company aims to accelerate the development of the deposit located in San Juan to take advantage of the rising gold price environment.
Conclusions from LME Week: Lithium and Copper, Key to Promoting Argentina’s Mining Sector Abroad
An important delegation of national and provincial officials, along with private sector representatives from Argentina, participated in the London Metal Exchange Week.
GEMERA Announces New Board of Directors
The Group of Mining Exploration Companies of the Argentine Republic (GEMERA) has announced the new formation of its Board of Directors, which will lead the organization in its mission to promote the sustainable development of the mining industry in the country.
Salta to Review Taca Taca's Environmental Impact Assessment Ahead of Construction
The province of Salta will host a technical and scientific meeting and joint inspection regarding the Taca Taca Project, one of Argentina's five major copper initiatives. Various departments within the Ministry of Production and Sustainable Development, together with the Argentine Geological and Mining Service (SEGEMAR), will assess the project's Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), while also conducting on-site oversight and monitoring activities.
NGEx Announces Exploration Plan for Lunahuasi
NGEx Minerals Ltd. announced its exploration plan and strategy for the largest drill program to date at the Lunahuasi high-grade copper-gold-silver project in San Juan province. The field team is on site preparing for mobilization of drill rigs with drilling expected to start in early October.
Salta: Hanaq to Launch a Pilot Plant of 3,000 Tons of Lithium
Hanaq Group has achieved a significant milestone in its Doncella lithium project, located in the Arizaro Salt Flat, in Salta province, by obtaining the Environmental Impact Statement (EIA) which will allow the construction of a 3,000-ton-per-year pilot plant for lithium carbonate. This progress came after successfully completing the Free and Informed Public Consultation (CPLI) and the Public Hearing in the local community of Tolar Grande.
Gold Price Hits a New All-Time High
The gold market continues to show strong momentum, reaching a new all-time high this week. The spot price of the yellow metal surpassed US$2,660 per ounce for the first time during the September 24th session, driven by a combination of economic and geopolitical factors that continue to boost its demand as a safe-haven asset.
Lithium: Arcadium Lithium Announces Ambitious Expansion Plan in Argentina
Arcadium Lithium, one of the world's leading lithium producers, has unveiled a strategic plan that promises significant growth in the coming years, with Argentina positioned as a key pillar. The company expects to double its sales volumes by 2028 and achieve an adjusted EBITDA of US$1.3 billion, driven by strong global demand for lithium. Paul Graves, the company’s President and CEO, highlighted that the combination of a vertically integrated operational network and a disciplined commercial strategy will maximize the value of each unit of lithium delivered to its customers.