Egypt Mining Forum 2026 concluded in Cairo following its largest edition, attracting more than 6,000 participants from over 50 countries to discuss exploration, investment and the development of Egypt’s mining sector.

Held under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, who inaugurated the event on September 28, the fifth edition was hosted by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, with support from the Mineral Resources and Mining Industries Authority (MRMIA). 

The forum featured more than 500 conference delegates, 100 speakers and 100 exhibiting companies.

Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Karim Badawi outlined reforms aimed at attracting exploration investment, improving licensing and permitting, and accelerating projects from discovery to production. 

Egypt aims to increase mining’s contribution to around 6 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), with greater emphasis on processing and downstream value creation.

The Open Blocks system attracted 119 companies and 403 offers across 118 mining blocks during its first three months, highlighting renewed exploration interest.

Discussions also examined critical minerals, resilient supply chains and the potential of the Arabian-Nubian Shield.

Gold exploration remained a priority, with AngloGold Ashanti indicating plans to expand its Egyptian activities. Participants stressed responsible production, refining and stronger local supply chains.

The launch of the African Minerals Regulatory Authorities Forum (AFMRA) in Cairo further advanced regional cooperation. 

The forum concluded with calls to strengthen investor confidence, accelerate discoveries and generate greater economic value from Egypt’s mineral resources.