Ontario developing first ever critical minerals strategy

The Ontario government is developing its first-ever Critical Minerals Strategy to generate investment, increase competitiveness in the global market and create jobs and opportunities in the mining sector.

The strategy will also support Ontario's transition to a low-carbon economy both at home and abroad.

‘By developing this strategy, we will strengthen Ontario's position as one of North America's premier jurisdictions for responsibly-sourced critical minerals, including rare earth elements,’ says Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Minister of Indigenous Affairs.

‘We are confident this will generate investment, reduce red tape, create jobs and advance Indigenous participation in the sector. Local and global markets, including Ontario-based industries, are looking for reliable, responsibly-sourced critical minerals and we are ready to capitalise on this growing market demand.

‘Industries across Ontario and around the world need a steady supply of critical minerals to support new technologies and emerging industries, including electric vehicles,’ he adds.

‘With the development of a critical minerals strategy, the Province can showcase Ontario's competitive advantage, high mineral development potential and world-class mining sector.’

New technologies and high-growth sectors that rely on critical minerals include information and communications technology, electronics, energy, aerospace and defence, health and life sciences and transportation.

To inform the critical minerals strategy, the Province is releasing a discussion paper for public consultation on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. A consultation with industry and Indigenous communities will also help guide the development of the strategy to be released this fall.