Precious metals prices are at historic highs and countries around the world are increasingly recognizing the importance of the mining industry, especially when it comes to building supply chains for crucial minerals.
This year’s convention, which will bring together more than 27,000 participants from more than 125 countries, promises to address these important topics and more as diverse thought leaders take the stage.
With just a week to go before the convention, the Investing News Network reached out to PDAC President Karen Rees to get her thoughts on the state of the resources sector and what not to miss at PDAC.
Read on for her take on the industry and her tips and tricks for getting the most out of PDAC.
INN: What is your sense of the current sentiment in the commodities sector heading towards PDAC?
KR: Heading into PDAC, there is a positive outlook for the resources sector. Demand for minerals remains strong, and higher commodity prices supported investment through much of 2025. That momentum is manifesting across the sector, with companies continuing their work and actively assessing new opportunities.
At the same time, the global environment is becoming increasingly competitive as countries work to secure the minerals needed to support their economies. That makes this an important time for the sector. The upcoming PDAC convention provides an opportunity for leaders to step back from their day-to-day tasks, assess where things are going and have the kinds of conversations that help shape investment decisions.
INN: What trends are you noticing in the mining sector in general at the moment?
KR: One of the clearest trends is the growing recognition of how essential minerals are to modern life, from infrastructure and manufacturing to emerging technologies.
That awareness continues to support interest in exploration and building strong channels for future supply. Technology is also playing a greater role in how companies evaluate opportunities and make decisions, whether through robust geological data or enhanced digital tools that support exploration.
At the same time, responsible development remains paramount. Companies understand that environmental performance and strong community relationships are fundamental to long-term success. Taken together, these trends point to an industry adapting and positioning itself for what comes next.
INN: Can you talk about the themes we’ll see at PDAC this year?
KR: PDAC 2026 will focus on what is needed to stimulate new investment and responsible mineral development. Capital markets, supply chains, technological innovation and the wider policy environment will all feature prominently as these aspects directly influence the way work in the sector progresses.
What sets the convention apart is the breadth of experience brought together during the event. Participants will hear from industry leaders, technical experts and policymakers, but just as importantly, they will have the opportunity to exchange perspectives with colleagues from around the world.
INN: Are there any can’t-miss presentations or events at PDAC that you would like to highlight?
KR: PDAC 2026 will host more than 1,300 exhibitors, representing the largest trade show footprint in the convention’s history. That level of participation underscores the convention’s role as a global meeting place for the mineral industry, where companies, governments and service providers come together to showcase expertise, connect with decision makers and build relationships that support investment and growth.
The Keynote program is a major draw, bringing together influential voices from across the global mining sector to discuss resource prospects, leadership, innovation and key discoveries.
We’ll hear from Gustavo Pimenta, CEO of Vale (NYSE:VALE), on accelerating the future of mining, and Don Lindsay, director at BHP (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) and retired CEO of Teck Resources (TSX:TECK.A,TECK.B,NYSE:TECK), on mining finance and leadership. Mikko Tepponen, digital officer at BHP, will explore how data and artificial intelligence influence decision-making, while Paul Bartos, former chief greenfields geologist at AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU,JSE:ANG), will deliver the Discovery of the Year keynote.
In addition to the formal program, some of the most valuable moments occur during conversations during the convention, where introductions take place, partnerships take shape and new opportunities emerge.
INN: Final thoughts on PDAC and/or the resource space?
KR: The pace of change in the resources sector is accelerating, and the decisions made today will help shape supply for decades to come.
In that environment, the opportunities for personal gathering are important. PDAC creates space for thoughtful dialogue, informed debate and practical collaboration, the kind of interactions that help turn ideas into action.
As global demand for minerals continues to grow, the importance of aligning investment, innovation and responsible development has never been clearer. PDAC remains focused on supporting these conversations and helping position the industry for long-term success.
Register now for PDAC
PDAC is widely regarded as a can’t-miss event for investors, executives and companies in the resources sector, and with more than 1,300 exhibitors, this year’s convention is sure to be a dynamic experience.
If you would like to attend the PDAC, click here for detailed information on how to register.
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Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, have no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Editorial Disclosure: The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence.
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