Government commits $50M to boost critical minerals sector

The federal government is investing up to $50 million to advance its Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy, aiming to support infrastructure, innovation and Indigenous partnerships, Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson announced at the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada 2025 Convention.

Wilkinson also launched the second call for proposals under the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund, with over $500 million available for clean energy and transportation projects. Additionally, he proposed extending the 15-per-cent Mineral Exploration Tax Credit for investors in flow-through shares until March 31, 2027.

“These investments and initiatives will help Canada maintain its status as a global leader in the critical minerals space,” Wilkinson said.

The minister also met with provincial and territorial counterparts to coordinate a “Team Canada” approach to counter U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports. Discussions focused on accelerating resource projects, strengthening supply chains and expanding market access.

Wilkinson signed an agreement with Argentina to enhance mining sustainability and discussed critical minerals and hydrogen collaboration with the Netherlands.

Canada produces more than 60 minerals and metals, including nickel, lithium and uranium, and is positioning itself as a key supplier of responsibly sourced critical minerals to global markets.