Manitoba has unveiled its "Securing Our Critical Mineral Future" strategy, aimed at fast-tracking critical mineral projects while fostering strong Indigenous partnerships and ensuring sustainable economic growth. The Canadian province is home to 30 of the 34 minerals identified by the federal government as critical for advancing green energy technologies, positioning Manitoba as a key supplier of materials essential for powering the North American low-carbon economy, according to Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses.

Manitoba is currently experiencing a boom in exploration for lithium and other critical minerals, with nearly 50 companies actively seeking opportunities in the province, representing over 70% of all exploration companies in the region.

“Manitoba needs to expedite the development of new mines,” said John Morris, co-director of the Mining Association of Manitoba (MAMI). “By streamlining policies and regulations, the creation of a single-window Critical Minerals Office will help improve the permitting process. MAMI looks forward to working with the province to implement the action items outlined in this strategy.”

The new strategy is designed to attract investment, create jobs, and include the establishment of a dedicated Critical Minerals Office, responsible for streamlining permitting processes. It also focuses on investing in key regional infrastructure projects and developing a provincial revenue-sharing model for mining that will involve collaboration with Indigenous communities.

"This strategy will position Manitoba as a leader in responsible mineral development, creating good jobs and ensuring long-term economic success," Moses stated. "Regardless of political changes, this strategy will ensure that Manitoba remains a secure and reliable trade partner for years to come."

The Manitoba government also emphasized its commitment to engaging with rights holders, local communities, and businesses as it moves forward with the action items of the strategy. Municipal and Northern Relations and Indigenous Economic Development Minister Ian Bushie highlighted the crucial role that Indigenous and northern communities will play in the success of the mining sector.

“Indigenous communities can be the foundation of a thriving mining sector, setting both the communities and the broader Manitoba economy on a path to prosperity,” Bushie said. “By adopting a nation-to-nation approach, this strategy will ensure that Indigenous peoples benefit from critical mineral development, providing fair economic returns and supporting the broader goal of economic reconciliation.”

The strategy aims to leverage Manitoba’s mineral wealth in a way that benefits both the provincial economy and Indigenous communities, while positioning the province as a key player in the global critical minerals market.