Canada fast-tracks copper projects to reinforce critical minerals strategy

Copper Mining

Canada fast-tracks copper projects as it leans on copper to anchor its critical minerals strategy and domestic value chains. The move means Canada fast-tracks copper projects that can both expand supply and support downstream technologies and defence applications. As a result, Canada fast-tracks copper projects that signal a more proactive federal stance on permitting and strategic metals.

Canada fast-tracks copper projects at McIlvenna Bay and Red Chris

The federal government has placed the McIlvenna Bay and Red Chris projects on its priority list for accelerated review. McIlvenna Bay in Saskatchewan, operated by Foran, holds around 1bn lb of contained copper and 1.9bn lb of zinc in indicated reserves. Therefore, it fits squarely within the push to pair copper with other critical base metals for energy and infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Newmont and Imperial Metals’ Red Chris expansion in British Columbia will extend mine life by more than a decade. The expansion is expected to lift Canada’s copper production by over 15pc a year, according to the government. This incremental output will be crucial as global demand rises from grid upgrades, EVs and renewable energy systems.

Critical minerals strategy links copper to processing funds and project pipelines

The decision to ensure Canada fast-tracks copper projects comes within a broader critical minerals strategy. Ottawa wants to secure domestic supply and build value chains that reach beyond the mine gate into processing and advanced manufacturing. Copper sits at the heart of this strategy because of its central role in electrification and defence technologies.

Provincial governments are aligning with this agenda. Ontario has launched a C$500mn critical minerals processing fund as part of its 2025 budget. This fund aims to catalyse midstream investments that can complement new copper and multi-metal mines across the country. Therefore, federal and provincial levers now reinforce each other more explicitly.

Canada’s Major Projects Office will keep screening and shepherding projects through a streamlined process. A second tranche of major projects is expected by mid-November, according to Carney. That pipeline will show how far Canada is willing to go in using fast-track tools to compete with other mining jurisdictions.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Canada’s decision to fast-track copper is as much about industrial policy as it is about geology. If McIlvenna Bay and Red Chris progress on schedule, they could become flagship examples of how permitting reform and public funds can turn copper deposits into full critical minerals value chains. Markets will now watch for tangible progress on timelines, infrastructure and offtake agreements.