Over the last few decades the spread of a global market economy has helped lift millions of people out of poverty. At the same time, it has generated a tremendous increase in consumption and capital development, both in developed nations, but particularly in emerging economies.

As a result the mining and metals industry has undergone an unprecedented period of transformation; of rapid growth, geographic diversification and an increase in the complexity of the companies involved.

For this inward investment to be secure there must be mutual benefit; companies must benefit, as must the host community and country. Indeed, the concept of mutual benefit is the underlying basis for responsible behaviour in the sector. In the past, the economic outcome from inward investment by the mining sector has been variable.