As the global shift toward sustainability accelerates, the mining industry is experiencing a resurgence — and companies like Sandvik are reaping the benefits. Across Asia, the demand for minerals essential to electrification and the push for greener mining practices are driving growth and innovation.
Over the past decade, China has rolled out a series of policies and incentives aimed at promoting sustainable mining. This aligns perfectly with Sandvik’s advanced, eco-friendly mining equipment. However, competition is heating up as local Chinese suppliers offer lower-cost alternatives with steadily improving technology.
“At Sandvik, we focus on a different lane — the premium market,” says Yao Jing, Sandvik representative in China. “We deliver unmatched value through our cutting-edge products, technical expertise, and world-class service for the mining and construction sectors.”
Analysts agree this premium strategy is paying off.
“By targeting high-end customers and staying committed to the Chinese market, Sandvik is tapping into a unique growth dimension,” says Frédéric Cho, Asia expert and analyst.
Strong Presence Beyond China
Sandvik’s influence extends well beyond China, with a solid footprint in Indonesia and Mongolia. In Papua, Indonesia, the company has been supplying equipment to Grasberg — the world’s largest gold mine and third-largest copper mine — since 1997. Operated by Freeport-McMoRan, Grasberg is a cornerstone in the region’s mining economy.
Sandvik’s technology excels in block caving operations, particularly with automated loaders designed for hazardous environments prone to flooding or rockslides. Their advanced Deswik mine planning software also enables a smooth transition from open-pit to underground mining — a growing trend as surface resources dwindle.
Electrification and Automation: The Future of Mining
In Mongolia, Sandvik supports major customer Rio Tinto at the Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine. The site is now evaluating a shift from diesel-powered machinery to battery-electric vehicles, aiming for longer operating hours and improved sustainability.
“Electrification reduces emissions and heat from diesel engines, while automation boosts utilization and safety,” says Malcolm Mauger, Vice President of Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, Southeast Asia. “It’s about building smarter, greener mines.”
Copper Demand Soars with the Green Revolution
Driving much of this momentum is the surging global demand for copper, a critical material for electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure. As operators dig deeper and intensify exploration, the need for advanced mining solutions grows.
“Our solutions are built for these exact challenges,” says Mauger. “We help operators control costs, boost efficiency, and use digital tools to locate the next big ore body — all while pushing further underground.”
