Canada backs Sisson tungsten-molybdenum project to diversify W and Mo supply

Northcliff W, Mo project

Canada will fund the Sisson tungsten-molybdenum project with $8.2mn to accelerate development. The Sisson tungsten-molybdenum project aims to strengthen North American supply chains. This move complements US support and positions the Sisson tungsten-molybdenum project for key pre-construction milestones.

Updated study and engineering to unlock project value

The funding will update the 2013 feasibility study and complete basic engineering. Meanwhile, US Title III funds support offtake talks and financial planning. The study outlines an open-pit mine producing APT and molybdenum for 27 years. Planned output targets 557,000t of ammonium paratungstate and 1,860t of molybdenum annually. As a result, the project could become a significant non-Chinese W and Mo source.

Permitting, offtake, and timelines remain critical

Construction has been delayed since 2022 and no start date is set. Next steps include construction and operating permits plus binding offtake agreements. Therefore, stakeholder engagement and environmental compliance will shape the development path. Strong commercial contracts will also de-risk financing amid volatile tungsten prices.

Strategic context: defense demand and China controls

Rising defense demand is tightening tungsten availability across North America. Beijing expanded export licenses on select tungsten products, amplifying supply risk. Consequently, Canada and the US are investing to localize critical minerals. The Sisson asset could reduce import dependence and enhance alloy, tooling, and munitions supply. Market diversification should also stabilize APT pricing and downstream manufacturing plans.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Policy capital is flowing to projects that target tangible offtake and near-term tonnage. If Sisson secures permits and contracts, it can anchor a North American tungsten hub and improve molybdenum balance for alloy makers.