Video News/Future Minerals Forum 2026

Dominic Raab, Head of Global Affairs at Appian Capital Advisory, spoke with Kitco Mining’s Paul Harris at Future Minerals Forum 2026 in Riyadh about how geopolitics and national security concerns are reshaping global critical minerals supply chains. Raab said supply concentration and export controls have driven a stronger US response, noting “there is a galvanization of action coming out of Washington DC in response to the bottlenecks of supply that we've seen because of the high levels of concentration.” He explained that critical minerals are now viewed as central to defense needs and the resilience of the US industrial base. Raab discussed how Washington is balancing onshoring with partnerships in friendly jurisdictions, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s advantages in permitting speed and energy costs. He also addressed rising US–China competition, growing polarization in global trade, and why many producing countries are seeking to avoid choosing sides. Looking ahead, Raab outlined the increasing role of public-private partnerships, including Appian’s work with the International Finance Corporation, and explained why mid-cap miners and private capital may be critical to expanding future mineral supply.