Mining can play a vital role on the sustainable development of some of the world’s poorest countries, yet many countries that are most economically dependent on mining would benefit from improved governance, according to a new report published by the International Council of Mining and Minerals (ICMM).

The report ranks 183 countries according to the relative economic importance of mining. The new data shows the potential contribution mining can play in the sustainable development of many of the world’s poorest countries and also highlights the importance of governance if the economic benefits of mining are to result in broader based economic and social progress.