In April 2013 the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and the Global Environmental Institute convened a workshop in Beijing and discussed how international tools and instruments can help Chinese companies address the challenges raised by the growing demands of developing country capital importers with regard to mining investments and promoting sustainable development.

It was acknowledged that addressing the growing expectations of host states is crucial in terms of accessing investment opportunities, conducting long-term operations and mitigating investment risks. The Chinese government and Chinese companies are very much aware of these terms.

Participants called for Chinese investors to make full use of cutting-edge international instruments, especially the Model Mining Development Agreement.