nternational experts and investors in Egypt are exploring mechanisms to develop the gold, minerals, and gemstones sector, alongside technology and investment in global gold markets.
The 11th International Forum and Exhibition on the Economies of Mines and Quarries in the Arab World kicks off tomorrow, Saturday, in the Egyptian capital, Cairo. The four-day event sees broad participation from experts, investors, decision-makers, and representatives of major mining, metals, and precious stones companies from around the world—a step reflecting growing regional and international interest in developing the mining sector and maximizing the economic value of natural resources.
Speaking to “Aleqtisadiah”, Dr. Hassan Bakhit, Secretary-General and Official Spokesperson of the forum, stated that the event represents a specialized international platform highlighting the future of the metals and precious stones mining and manufacturing sector. It achieves this by providing an interactive environment that brings together strategic partners, experts, and investment entities to review the latest innovations and technologies, discuss promising investment opportunities, and support the sector’s shift toward sustainable growth.
He explained that the forum aims to lead a regional and international dialogue on advancing the metals and precious stones sector. It also seeks to enhance integration among Arab and African nations in mining, manufacturing, marketing, and trade, contributing to building a more competitive industry based on innovation, sustainability, and maximizing the added value of natural resources.
He pointed out that the forum carries several key messages, most notably stimulating investments in the mining sector, exchanging expertise and knowledge, reviewing advanced technical solutions, and supporting regional and international integration in value chains for gold, gemstones, and precious metals to enhance economic growth opportunities and job creation.
The forum addresses three main pillars:
First: “Mining and Added Value”, which focuses on the future of gold and gemstone mining, the sector’s challenges and opportunities, and mechanisms for organizing the relationship between major corporations and artisanal mining. It also examines the importance of integrating gold supply chains from extraction to manufacturing, ensuring quality and operational standards, and maximizing added value through local manufacturing and job creation.
Additionally, this pillar discusses the importance of expanding gemstone mining as a core component of the jewelry industry, alongside the necessity of Arab-African integration in jewelry manufacturing, trade, and marketing to ensure maximum benefit from available natural riches across Africa and the Arab world.
Second: “Investment and Trading Mechanisms for Gold and Gemstones”, which explores gold investment tools, investment funds, trading, loans, and manufacturing. It also considers the potential of utilizing gold as an active investment instrument rather than merely a savings store, studying the impact of speculation on gold prices and national economies, linking gold to Egypt’s Commodities Exchange, and exploring the feasibility of establishing an African Exchange for Metals and Precious Stones.
The forum also highlights the impact of modern technology on the gold and gemstone trade and industry, as well as the role of smart applications and digital technologies in developing trading and marketing operations while enhancing market transparency and efficiency.
Third: “Toward an Integrated Vision for the Supreme Gold Committee’s Strategy”, which examines policies, legislation, and execution mechanisms that can support Egypt’s transition into an African, regional, and global hub for the gold and gemstone industry and trade. It also addresses proposals to establish an African Gold Bank, an African Gold Exchange, and a Diamond and Gemstone Exchange, bolstering Egypt’s status as a commercial hub for marketing African gold and attracting domestic and foreign investments.
Furthermore, the forum discusses mechanisms for developing the necessary infrastructure and legislative framework for sector growth, as well as creating a committee comprising African precious metal-producing nations to coordinate operational mechanisms and leverage continental free trade agreements. It also reviews logistical solutions to facilitate and secure the transport of metals and gemstones between African countries, reduce transport costs, and ensure product quality and authenticity in accordance with international standards.
Within the framework of learning from global experiences, the forum reviews successful international models in developing investment in gold and precious metals, including the experiences of India, China, and Switzerland. It also presents the experiences of several African countries seeking to strengthen control over their natural mineral and precious stone resources, along with the challenges faced in this endeavor.
The forum witnesses wide participation from mining companies, refineries, precious metal and gemstone manufacturers and marketers, central and investment banks, gold bullion and jewelry companies, as well as fintech, insurance, and shipping/logistics companies, alongside machinery and equipment manufacturers used in mining, extraction, and processing. This is in addition to wholesalers seeking expansion opportunities in global markets, underscoring the forum’s importance as a strategic platform for building partnerships and exploring new opportunities in the mining and precious metals sector.
