A RAPIDLY EVOLVING LANDSCAPE

ESG AND THE CURRENT GEOPOLITICAL LANDSCAPE HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT THE MINING SECTOR.

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The Australian mining sector is no stranger to unpredictability, but 2025 presents a unique convergence of challenges and opportunities.

From geopolitical division and shifting environmental, social and governance (ESG) priorities, to the increasing role of technology and automation, mining companies must navigate a rapidly evolving landscape.

According to White & Case partner John Tivey, these factors will significantly impact investment, deal-making and operational strategies into the future, with Australia's position as a leading exporter of critical minerals placing it at the centre of global trade tensions.

The geopolitical landscape is reshaping how mining projects are financed, with increasing capital costs and cautious lending from traditional banks.

"In jurisdictions such as Latin America, we're seeing a gradual comeback of export credit agencyand development finance institution-backed project financing," Tivey told Australian Mining.

"Supply chain realignment and regionalised financing are likely to make cross-border deals more complex, while interest rate and market volatility may slow investment."

For Australian miners, securing diversified funding will be critical, particularly for projects in emerging markets or regions affected by trade restrictions.

The country's critical minerals sector is also under heightened scrutiny, as Western investors prioritise sustainability while others focus on resource nationalism.

"Companies will need diversified financing sources and adaptive risk management strategies to navigate these challenges," Tivey said.

Managing deal-making barriers

Cross-border transactions are becoming more complex as governments tighten regulations on foreign investments and push for greater domestic beneficiation of critical minerals.