Future Mining Forum to Explore Critical Raw Materials and Copper in Katowice

Katowice, Poland – The traditional image of Poland's mining sector, long associated primarily with coal, is undergoing a significant transformation. The upcoming Future Mining Forum & Expo 2026, scheduled for September 9-11, will delve into the broader scope of the industry, emphasizing the critical role of copper, rare earth metals, and other essential raw materials in driving advancements in energy, infrastructure, electromobility, and new technologies.

The forum will feature nine distinct thematic tracks, including a dedicated Critical Raw Materials and Copper Forum. This segment will address the escalating global demand for these materials, fueled by the energy transition and digitalization. Experts will discuss the geopolitical implications of resource concentration in specific regions and explore strategies for Europe to bolster its own mining and processing capabilities. Key materials like rare earth metals, lithium, nickel, and cobalt will be central to these discussions, alongside emerging investment opportunities in Poland and Central Eastern Europe.

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The transformation of the energy sector, electromobility, and digitalization are increasing the demand for materials whose extraction and processing are concentrated in specific parts of the world. Consequently, raw materials are becoming not only an industrial issue but also an element of economic security and geopolitics.

Copper, in particular, is poised to be a focal point. Its demand is surging with the electrification of the economy and the expansion of energy grids and infrastructure. However, the industry faces challenges, including declining access to high-quality deposits and increasing costs for new projects. The forum will provide a platform for dialogue on the global copper market and potential new mining ventures, with attention also turning towards Africa, Central Asia, and the Americas for investment prospects.

Notable participants include Zbigniew Bryja, Vice President of KGHM Polska Miedź SA; Tomasz Zdzikot, Vice Chairman of the National Security and Defense Council; and Kamila Slupek, Secretary General of the International Copper Study Group. The event aims to foster collaboration and strategic planning for a sector vital to Poland's and Europe's future economic security and technological advancement.

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Copper's use is growing with the electrification of the economy, the development of energy grids, infrastructure, and electromobility. At the same time, the availability of high-quality deposits is decreasing, and launching new projects is becoming increasingly costly and time-consuming.