STREAMLINING MINING PERMITTING IN ONTARIO AND ACROSS CANADA

 To streamline mining permitting processes, progress critical mineral initiatives, and advance major projects, several Canadian provinces, notably Ontario, have experienced significant recent and proposed legislative changes

Ontario's strategy, in particular, represents a substantial step towards overcoming regulatory bottlenecks and expediting project timelines. By introducing legislation such as the 'One Project, One Process' initiative, the province aims to reduce approval times for new mining projects by 50%. This targeted approach focuses on strategically important mining projects like the Ring of Fire and critical minerals development, reflecting Ontario's commitment to fostering a more efficient and effective mining industry.

Endeavors such as the designation of special economic zones, a dedicated permit process for recovering minerals from mine waste, concurrent indigenous consultation, and environmental assessments are among initiatives. A “registration-first” approach for particular projects is expected to streamline operations, whilst maintaining enforceable environmental protections.

Further, a  One project, one review  reform was launched in March 2025 by the Federal Government, thus eliminating overlapping requirements and hastening project progression across Canada. Collaborative recognition of provincial assessments for major projects at a Federal level is part of this initiative.

Other provinces are following suit. British Columbia has emphasized critical mineral projects, slashing exploration permitting and project review timelines by over 35%. Growing advocacy from the Mining Association of British Columbia continues to pressure for further streamlining of the process. Quebec’s  Plan Nord  has improved permitting efficacy, producing mine development timelines quicker than Ontario’s existing process.

Aligned to these changes, Ontario is looking to foster domestic and allied partners like Australia, Japan, South Korea, and EU member states. The friend-shoring approach is envisioned to fortify Ontario as a secure supplier for Western supply chains, despite the potential of curtailing immediate foreign capital.

Simultaneously, the new legislation has erected considerable barriers for investments from non-allied or state-owned foreign entities such as China. This step aims to safeguard the strategic mineral supply chain.

The reformed mining laws in Ontario and other Provinces are anticipated to bolster Canada's attractiveness to allied foreign investments by simplifying approvals and providing regulatory certainty. The overarching objective is to cultivate a competitive, secure, and predictable investment climate for partners that aligns with the economic and national security interests of both the provinces and Canada as a whole.

The accelerated development of mining projects, particularly those focused on Critical Minerals, will not only cater to the escalating global demand but also cement Canada's reputation as a reliable and responsible supplier of these resources.

SP

 

“For information purposes only”.

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