Editor's letter

With all eyes focused on the US ahead of the 5 November presidential election, we explore how the result could impact the mining industry.

Amid concerns about US dependence on “adversarial nations” for critical minerals, many are pushing for the return of more centralised governance to coordinate policy and boost the country’s competitiveness. We ask: how likely is it we will see a revival of the US Bureau of Mines?

We also examine the outlook for US coal following Biden’s decision to end federal coal leasing in the Powder River Basin.

Plus, we look at how stronger regulation on bribery, human rights and traceability can support more responsible mining. We also investigate the rise of sustainable explosives in mining and report on the record-breaking deals, equipment and themes that emerged from MINExpo 2024. 

Caroline Peachey, editor