AME’s Roundup 2018 Wraps with Renewed Confidence as Industry Sees First Growth in Five Years

Speaker Highlights: Minister Michelle Mungall, Tech Solutions Innovator Ryan Peterson, Barrick President Kelvin Dushnisky

Vancouver, B.C., Canada – The Association for Mineral Exploration’s Roundup 2018 conference concluded on Thursday with a positive outlook for 2018 following a 20 per cent growth in 2017 in B.C. mineral exploration spending, the first annual increase since 2012.

Held at Vancouver Convention Centre on the shared traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh peoples, and centring on the theme of “A New Generation of Discovery,” this year’s Roundup positions British Columbia as a global industry leader, demonstrating forward thinking through new geoscience ideas, innovative technologies and creative solutions for the future of the industry. This year’s Roundup was attended by more than 6,570 participants representing 39 countries, an 11 percent increase from 2017 as the industry looks forward to continued growth and investment in the coming year.

“AME Roundup 2018 offered attendees new programming and a look at the application of innovative technologies to mineral exploration and mining in an industry poised for growth,” says AME Roundup Organizing Committee Chair David Gale. “Year after year, Roundup continues to provide a space for industry collaboration and would not be possible without the ongoing support of our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, delegates, and volunteers.”

Highlights from AME’s Roundup 2018 conference include:

  • Announcement of a 20 per cent increase in mineral exploration activity in 2017 – the first annual increase since 2012 – from Gordon Clarke, Director of the British Columbia Mineral Development Office.
  • Geoscience BC’s release of results from its Search Phase III Project – an airborne minerals survey of north central and northeastern British Columbia. This data highlights the location of metal deposits like copper with more accuracy than ever before, helping communities, First Nations, the exploration sector and governments to plan future land use and to attract investment.
  • A look at opportunities for tech and industry collaboration in the new Innovation Hub, exploring applications for technologies such as 3D, virtual reality and augmented reality within mineral exploration and mining.
  • New for 2018, the Project Generators Hub took a closer look at companies specializing in generating exploration ideas, how they turn these ideas into active projects.
  • A spotlight on reconciliation from Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, emphasizing the importance of early engagement and the mutual benefits of building strong and open relationships for long-term industry success.
  • Record attendance at AME’s 6th annual Gathering Place, that focuses on the importance of engaging early with Indigenous peoples and resulting success stories.
  • Presentations from government and industry representatives from Mexico, Argentina and Peru showcasing new discoveries, guidelines to exploration, and opportunities for collaboration at the new Latin America Cordillera Talks.

“We are thrilled to see a resurgence in B.C.’s mineral exploration and mining industry and look forward to continued growth in 2018,” says AME President and CEO Edie Thome. “As we look to the future, we will continue to prioritize innovation and collaboration with our partners to ensure long-term success for all stakeholders and communities. We appreciate the opportunity to conduct business and convene all our attendees and partners on Coast Salish territory, and thank our patron sponsor Teck for its support, and initiative in leading new conversations such as the Reconciliation Breakfast.”

AME’s Roundup conference returns to the Vancouver Convention Centre under the sails of Canada Place from January 28 to 31, 2019. To stay up-to-date on conference details visit roundup.amebc.ca or follow @AME_BC on Twitter, @Association.for.Mineral.Exploration on Facebook and @bcminex on Instagram for regular updates.

 About AME:

AME is the lead association for the mineral exploration and development industry based in British Columbia. Established in 1912, AME represents, advocates and promotes the interests of thousands of members who are engaged in mineral exploration and development in B.C. and throughout the world. AME encourages a safe, economically strong and environmentally responsible industry by providing clear initiatives, policies, events and tools to support its membership.

About AME Roundup:

Roundup is held annually in Vancouver, home to 800 mineral exploration and mining companies and 2,400 international service consultants and supplier companies supporting the sector in technical, legal and financial affairs. Roundup generates $8 million annually for the Vancouver economy. Roundup 2018 attracted more than 6,570 participants from 39 countries.

-30-

Media Contacts:

Jonathan Buchanan
Director, Corporate Affairs, AME
[email protected]
778.840.0620

Giulia Turco
Citizen Relations
[email protected]
778.989.2024