The global commodities sector is entering a period of profound change, shaped less by market fundamentals and more by geopolitics and technology. Shifts in global alliances, tariffs, sanctions and the growth of trade outside the dollar system are redrawing the flow of energy, metals and agricultural goods. The race to secure critical minerals – essential for both defence and the energy transition – is intensifying competition and prompting supply chains to move away from reliance on single countries. At the same time, advances in AI and algorithmic trading are reshaping markets, altering liquidity and changing risk management. The sector’s ability to adapt will rest on building more resilient supply chains, managing unpredictable shocks and using innovation to stay competitive.

The FT’s Commodities Global Summit 2026 will include three days of high-level content, curated and moderated by leading FT journalists. The agenda includes insightful interviews with CEOs from major trading houses, complemented by productive and meaningful networking opportunities. Discussions will confront the challenges and opportunities facing the sector across geopolitics, supply and demand, technology and innovation, finance and investment.