mining industry

eResearch has published a 30-page Industry Report on copper mining in BC’s Quesnel Trough, analyzing 26 companies ranging from senior producers to early-stage explorers. The report highlights copper’s growing strategic importance as a critical mineral in Canada and the US, driven by AI datacenter infrastructure, EV adoption, and power grid modernization. With the IEA forecasting a 30% supply deficit by 2035, BC’s Quesnel Trough, host to major mines including Highland Valley Copper, Copper Mountain, and Mount Milligan, is positioned as a key supplier to North America’s domestic copper supply chain. [more]

BHP’s artificial intelligence (AI) mining strategy centers on execution, not technology alone. At PDAC 2026, Mikko Tepponen outlined how data integration, AI, and system-level platforms are reshaping mining decisions from exploration to operations. As ore bodies become deeper and more complex, and demand for critical minerals rises, BHP is prioritizing faster decision cycles, improved capital allocation, and operational stability. Key initiatives include centralized exploration data platforms, computer vision in iron ore operations, and digital twins at Escondida. The company reports over US$2 billion in value from digital initiatives, but emphasizes that scalable execution and integrated systems will define long-term competitive advantage. [more]

BHP CEO Mike Henry outlined a bold vision at PDAC 2025, emphasizing the rising global demand for critical minerals and the investment opportunities ahead. With the world’s population expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, demand for copper alone is projected to increase by 70%, requiring significant exploration and innovation. He stressed the importance of policy reforms to maintain global competitiveness and highlighted BHP’s commitment to sustainability and local partnerships. He positioned BHP as a leader in shaping the future, ensuring that the mining industry remains essential to global infrastructure and economic development in the decades to come. [more]

The PDAC 2025 Convention, taking place in Toronto from March 2-5, features a keynote program covering four key themes: Commodity Outlook, Mining Industry Outlook, Technology & Innovation, and Discovery of the Year. Industry leaders, including BHP’s CEO Mike Henry and veteran investor Eric Sprott, will discuss the metals demand for 2050, trends in Canadian mining, and the impact of AI and satellite technology on exploration. The Discovery of the Year session will highlight the Onto copper-gold discovery in Indonesia. [more]

PDAC 2025, the world’s premier mineral exploration and mining convention, takes place March 2-5, 2025, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Registration is now open at www.pdac.ca/convention. The event will feature over 1,100 exhibitors, technical sessions, and networking opportunities. Highlights include the Investors Exchange, showcasing junior miners, producers, and prospectors, as well as keynotes on commodity and industry outlooks. Notable speakers include Eric Sprott (Eric Sprott Family Office) and Mike Henry (BHP Group). Programs emphasize advancements in mining technology, sustainability, and Indigenous partnerships, with opportunities for students and early-career professionals. [more]

Lundin Mining (TSX: LUN | NASDAQ: LUMI) and BHP Group (ASX: BHP) have announced a $4.1 billion acquisition of Filo Corp (TSX: FIL). On a copper equivalency basis, the deal values the Filo del Sol project at US$0.33 per pound. The deal forms a joint venture focused on the Filo del Sol project in Chile and the Josemaria project in Argentina, aiming to develop these major copper sites. This partnership strategically positions both companies to address the increasing global demand for copper, driven by the transition to renewable energy. The transaction is expected to close in Q1/2025, pending regulatory approvals and other conditions. [more]