Earlier this month, Keerit Jutla, President and CEO of AME attended the Resourcing Tomorrow mining conference in London, UK. This global gathering brought together leaders from the mining and resource sectors to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping our industry. This post lists some key takeaways and observations that resonated with him about Canada’s position in the international arena.
Canada’s Global Reputation: Strength and Contradiction
Canada is recognized internationally as a leader in mining and resource development, but there’s a growing gap between how we market ourselves and the reality we live at home. Abroad, we promote our nation as the best place to invest, citing strong environmental standards, reliable permitting processes, and a commitment to human rights. However, these claims are often undermined by policies and rhetoric at home that complicate and delay development projects.
For example, our permitting timelines remain a significant barrier to investment in the mineral exploration sector. While many discussions on the international stage focus on ESG, the underlying issue that truly matters is ensuring timely and predictable project approvals. Without addressing this core challenge, Canada risks losing its competitive edge in supplying the critical minerals and natural gas that the world urgently needs.
Embracing Our Sovereignty
One of the strongest impressions he took away from the conference is the need for Canada to lead with confidence. Western Europe and other international markets are increasingly reliant on our natural gas and critical minerals, yet there’s a tendency to impose external frameworks, such as UNDRIP interpretations or consultation practices, without fully appreciating the systems we already have in place.
We must assert that Canada does things the right way:
- Our consultation and engagement processes with Indigenous nations are among the most advanced in the world.
- We uphold human rights standards that far exceed those in many other resource-producing countries.
- Our environmental protections are rigorous and comprehensive.
If we allow other nations to dictate how we develop our mineral exploration and mining sector, we risk undermining the very principles that make Canada a leader in responsible resource development.
Internal Cohesion is Key
At home, there’s a troubling tendency to undercut our industry through conflicting policies and mixed messaging. Politicians and leaders cannot promote Canada internationally as the best place to invest while simultaneously implementing policies that hinder growth and development domestically. This duplicity damages our credibility and frustrates both investors and industry leaders.
Provinces like Quebec and Ontario are starting to cut through the noise, showcasing decisive leadership and clarity in their messaging. As province, BC needs to follow their example and advocate for a unified and honest narrative—one that celebrates our strengths without ignoring the challenges we need to address.
A Call to Action
As Canada positions itself to play a critical role in the global supply chain for critical minerals and energy, we must ensure that our policies, permitting processes, and international messaging are aligned. It’s time to move past the rhetoric and focus on tangible solutions that will secure Canada’s leadership in this space.
Our country has the resources, expertise, and partnerships to meet global demand responsibly and sustainably. Let’s ensure that our actions reflect the values we promote and that our leadership is recognized not just in words, but in outcomes.
Thank you for your continued dedication to BC and Canada’s mineral exploration and mining sector.
