WMC 2026 to record number of abstracts highlights shift towards digitalisation and sustainability
The World Mining Congress 2026 (WMC 2026) has garnered an impressive 660 technical abstract submissions from 38 countries across five continents, marking a significant milestone for this globally recognised event. The volume and diversity of proposals underscore the congress’s stature as a premier platform for innovation and knowledge exchange in the mining industry. This robust participation highlights the increasing drive within the sector to embrace advanced technologies and sustainable practices as it prepares for the future.
Peru leads the submissions with a remarkable 290 abstracts, reflecting its prominent role in global mining. Following Peru, Brazil contributed 50 proposals, Australia 43, Canada 38, Chile 36, and the United States 34. These figures showcase the leadership of the Americas and Oceania in generating cutting-edge technical knowledge. Additionally, submissions from European and Asian countries, including China, India, Japan, Germany, and Poland, demonstrate the event’s truly international appeal and reach.
Among the topics attracting the highest interest are “Mining Science & Innovation,” “AI & Data-Driven Decision Making,” and “Process Innovation, Circularity & Recovery.” These popular themes reveal the sector’s focus on digitalisation, efficiency, and sustainability—key drivers shaping the mining industry of the future. The congress aims to provide a forum to explore how trust, technology, and transformation will collectively redefine mining operations and stakeholder engagement in the years to come.
The WMC 2026 is scheduled to take place from 24 to 26 June at the Lima Convention Center in Peru. Organisers expect the event to attract a diverse audience, comprising industry leaders, government representatives, academic experts, and international organisations. The programme will include technical tours, keynote speeches, and high-level discussions to address pressing challenges such as decarbonisation, autonomous systems, critical minerals, social performance, and indigenous partnerships.
Keynote speakers confirmed for the congress include prominent figures such as Julia Torreblanca, President of the National Society of Mining, Petroleum, and Energy; Iván Arriagada, CEO of Antofagasta PLC; Jorge Gómez Díaz, CEO of Compañía Minera Doña Inés de Collahuasi; Sonia Scarselli, Executive Vice President of Exploration at Endeavour; and Mark Cutifani, Director at TotalEnergies. Their participation highlights the event’s commitment to fostering dialogue at the highest level between mining corporations and key stakeholders.
The technical programme committee, chaired by Doris Hiam-Gálvez, PhD, FCAE, features a distinguished panel of experts from academia, industry, and government. Committee members include renowned scientists and executives such as Jef Caers, Professor at Stanford University; Karen Hanghoj, Director of the British Geological Survey; Miguel Cardozo, President & CEO of CP Group & Alturas Minerals; and Romulo Mucho, former Peruvian Minister of Energy and Mines. This breadth of expertise underscores the comprehensive and forward-looking approach the congress will take toward addressing the sector’s evolving needs.
Submission notifications will be communicated on 28 October 2025, with final paper deadlines set for 15 January 2026. The official programme is scheduled for release on 23 April 2026, allowing sufficient time for participants to prepare and engage fully in the event.
As a gathering endorsed by major mining organisations worldwide, WMC 2026 is poised to be a defining occasion for advancing mining’s future—one that balances technological innovation, environmental responsibility, and social trust. The event offers an invaluable opportunity for associations, confederations, and trade bodies to observe emerging trends, collaborate on solutions, and enhance support for their members in a rapidly transforming global industry.