We all know mining is a cornerstone of Ontario’s economy, with immense potential for further growth. Almost a quarter of all the direct mining jobs in Canada are found right here in Ontario and around two-thirds of these are in northern Ontario.
Our world-class labour, health and safety, and environmental standards make the province an attractive jurisdiction for mineral development and processing. Today, the mining industry in Ontario generates more than $13.4 billion in annual mineral production and supports 77,000 direct and indirect jobs in Ontario.
Our government knows the value and potential of this important sector. That is why we have invested an additional $15 million to expand the Critical Minerals Innovation Fund (CMIF), bringing our total investment to $20 million. Projects funded through CMIF range from mining and mineral processing to the recovery and recycling of minerals. Our government also launched the Ontario Junior Exploration Program (OJEP) to help junior companies find the mines of tomorrow.
However, we know we must do more to ensure we maximize opportunities in the mineral exploration and mining sector and that is why we are working towards developing resources in the Ring of Fire in Ontario’s far north. The Ring of Fire is one of the most promising mineral deposits in Canada and it’s development will support better jobs with bigger paycheques for folks living in northern and Indigenous communities.
Our government has committed $1 billion to support critical infrastructure in the Ring of Fire region, including developing the all-season road network, investing in high-speed Internet, road upgrades, and community supports.
These investments and the projects they support prove Ontario is hard at work creating a globally competitive and integrated mining supply chain to strengthen our economy. Our province can also boast of billions in processing and manufacturing investment that will play an important role in supporting innovative technologies for high-growth sectors such as batteries, electronics, electric vehicles, and the technologies of tomorrow.
Ontario has what the world needs. Together with our industry and Indigenous partners, we are building a strong and vibrant mineral sector. Together, we are keeping the industry competitive and current, and creating real opportunities for people all over Ontario.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us.
