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Leaders Convene at 5th FMF for 3rd International Geological Survey Meeting to Harmonize Global Data Standards
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 2026 – Riyadh hosted the third International Geological Survey Meeting (IGSM), attracting a record number of leaders from geological survey authorities worldwide. The meeting, a key feature of the fifth Future Minerals Forum, was chaired by H.E. Eng. Khalid bin Saleh Al-Mudaifer, Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs, and attended by Eng. Abdullah bin Muftar Al-Shamrani, CEO of Saudi Geological Survey.
In his opening remarks, Al-Mudhaifer emphasized that the global mining sector fundamentally depends on reliable, easily accessible geological data, which he described as the most critical enabler for accelerating discoveries and attracting capital.
He explained that the primary objective of the meeting was to develop practical solutions for collecting and digitally sharing geological data, not only to serve geologists, but also to enable artificial intelligence technologies to analyze these datasets. He stressed the need to address geological uncertainty and skills shortages, which he identified as among the most significant barriers to investment.
The meeting, moderated by Eng. Abdullah Al-Shamrani focused on several key themes, including capacity building in geological surveying. Two flagship initiatives were reviewed were:
- The Common Global Geoscience Competency Framework (CGGCF), aimed at harmonizing skills standards
- The Geoscience Without Borders program, designed to facilitate expert exchange and bridge skills gaps across the extended Super Region of Africa, West and Central Asia, and Latin America
The second session focused on data, with participation from experts from BHP and the Saudi Geological Survey. Discussions explored ways to develop cost-effective digital geological data platforms that are accessible to all supplier countries and aligned with modern mining models. The third session addressed the role of Geological Centers of Excellence in creating global collaborative spaces to improve the precision of exploration targeting.
IGSM 2026 concluded with agreement on practical implementation initiatives, including:
- Adopting the global competency framework
- Launching a skills exchange program
- Increasing investment in artificial intelligence to address data gaps.
Al-Mudaifer emphasized the importance of translating the discussions into tangible actions through specialized working groups, tasked with delivering outcomes to be presented at the 2027 meeting. He noted that the future of mining depends on these solid geological foundations.
FMF 2026 will kick off on January 14 – 15, with a record participation of over 20,000 attendees and more than 400 speakers, including ministers, industry leaders, experts, specialists, academics, and financial institutions.
It will also feature refreshed and new programs, including:
- Mineral Investment Journey, a dedicated, closed-door session for new and returning investors
- Gateway to Funding, in partnership with Bank of Montreal (BMO), is an exclusive investor engagement stream that connects family businesses and institutional investors with international mining companies seeking growth capital
- MinGen workshops, a dynamic platform for young professionals, women in mining, and leadership networking
- MinValley Tech and Innovation will explore venture capital, startup pitches, AI deployment, Centers of Excellence priorities, the path to meeting the carbon challenge, and awarding winners of the first Future Minerals Pioneer competition
- 2nd Knowledge Exchange, a space for sharing the latest advancements in minerals intelligence, geology, technology, sustainability, and talent development
About the Future Minerals Forum
The Future Minerals Forum (FMF), launched in 2022, is the world's premier platform for the minerals industry. FMF stands at the forefront of global industry connections, bringing together governments, international organizations, and stakeholders to collectively shape the future of the minerals industry. With 18,000 participants from 165 countries, including 89 government representatives, FMF serves as a catalyst for global collaboration.
The Forum is renowned for its unique and audacious approach, confronting industry challenges head-on through genuine dialogue to promote a responsible and resilient mineral supply chain, enable development, advance global electrification goals, enhance global security, and accelerate the digital revolution.
Through the Ministerial Roundtable, conference, and exhibition, and specialized Mineral Technology and Exploration zones, the global conversation on minerals takes center stage, driving innovation and collaboration toward a sustainable future.