Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG) has welcomed Ma’aden to its membership, the first mining company from Saudi Arabia to do so.

A fast-growing enterprise that includes a mineral portfolio of phosphate, aluminium, gold, copper and other commodities, Ma’aden continues to diversify its portfolio to encompass a wide range of industries, GMG said.

It added: “The Saudi-based company pioneered the mining industry in the region by creating a fully integrated mining value chain. This has paved the way for the development of the Saudi Arabian economy well into the future, and mining is now the third pillar of Saudi industry, a key pillar in delivering Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plans.”

Since its IPO in 2008, Ma’aden has transformed from a small gold producing company to a much larger entity. Capitalising on this momentum, the company has set ambitious goals to continue its growth trajectory by leveraging the country’s mineral deposits, increasing production rates in existing value chains, increasing exploration and adding new strategic minerals to its portfolio.

Heather Ednie, GMG’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Ma’aden’s growth has been truly remarkable. They’ve become a leading force in the mining industry not only in the region, but globally. Collaboration remains a key component to solving many of the challenges facing the industry today and we’re certain their team of mining experts will bring a vast wealth of knowledge and experience to the Global Mining Guidelines Group.”

Saud Al-Mandil, Vice President, Digitalization & Operational Excellence at Ma’aden, said: “We are pleased to join the Global Mining Guidelines Group and contribute to the advancement of the international mining industry. As we move forward, governance and sustainable reporting will be imperative for the global industry to advance and contribute to the development of industries from food and agriculture to electric vehicles. We will continue to work with our colleagues in the industry to ensure that the mining ecosystem operates in a sustainable and efficient manner.”

In addition to owning a number of mining assets outright, Ma’aden also has a joint venture with Barrick on the Jabal Sayid copper-gold mine in Saudi Arabia (pictured).