Volatile commodity prices, depleted mineral reserves, stringent environmental regulations, rising operating costs and ever-intensifying competition have forced the international mining industry to reassess its strategies.
Low mineral commodity prices have resulted in the Australian mining sector focusing on improved efficiencies and reduced unit costs, while an increasingly global industry focus has caused increased merger, acquisition, strategic alliance and joint venture activities.
The last two years have been good for the metals markets, but it is a cyclical industry and most of the current boom has been driven by Asian demand. Sooner or later the industry will experience a down-cycle and then, once again, there will be renewed focus on more traditional issues like cost management and "anti-dumping" concerns.
How PwC can help you
PricewaterhouseCoopers is the world's leading adviser to the metals and mining industry, working with exploration, production and service companies to provide business solutions tailored to the metals and mining sector. Our strength in serving this truly international sector comes from our skills, our experience and our unique team of industry specialists.
