Mining and metals

Operators in mining and metals face a number of challenges. Rising expectations around ESG standards, the need to decarbonize value chains, and digitalization are reshaping the industry. Meanwhile, ongoing threats such as geopolitical uncertainty, corruption, and fraud add further complexity.

At Freshfields, we combine the strengths of our dedicated sector lawyers with the capabilities of our regional and technical teams. This ensures that our clients can manage risks and seize opportunities wherever they arise.

Our experience spans the entire mining and metals value chain, in both emerging and developed markets. We advise all players in the sector, from super-majors, mid-cap and junior mining companies to project and service companies, from sovereign wealth funds and other global financial and infrastructure investors to export credit agencies and lending and underwriting banks.

In M&A and financing, we excel at supporting cross-border transactions. Our global StrongerTogether network connects us with over 300 local law firms around the world, enabling seamless international collaboration.

We have played pivotal roles in many of the industry’s largest and most significant deals, including Barrick Gold’s US$18bn merger with Randgold Resources.

We have also executed a number of complex project financings and refinancings in the sector, including advising Alcoa on the $2.9bn refinancing of its Ma’aden Aluminum project in Saudi Arabia and Nyrstar on financing and restructuring matters related to its highly publicized distressed situation.

Clients value our ability to provide seamless, forward-thinking advice and innovative solutions. Through our leading antitrust and regulatory, tax and finance practices, we are able to work together on all aspects of complex transactions.

Our world-class disputes and advisory practice ensures our clients are able to mitigate and manage a host of risks. Freshfields is a global leader in international arbitration, global investigations, risk management, competition litigation and financial disputes.

Our team also has considerable experience advising on disputes in the natural resources sector involving African and Latin American states. For example, we secured one of the largest awards in ICSID history on behalf of Crystallex against Venezuela.

Wherever you operate, we have the local knowledge and sector expertise to deliver the best outcomes for your business.