Canada is set to play a leading role in supplying the world with responsibly produced critical minerals

Canada boasts a highly organised administrative structure that oversees the entire critical minerals value chain in the country. Multiple government agencies are responsible for critical minerals policies, including Natural Resources Canada; Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada; Department of National Defence; Department of Finance Canada; Global Affairs Canada; and Environment and Climate Change Canada.

However, the status of Canada as a federal state creates some natural complexities. For example, mining activities fall under the jurisdiction of provincial and territorial governments, each with their own specific laws and regulations. While certain responsibilities are shared between the federal government and provinces and territories, each jurisdiction may have distinct mining, environmental, and occupational, health and safety legislation and regulations.

In addition, Indigenous Peoples in Canada are rights-holders with constitutionally protected rights and title, supported by diverse and continually evolving governance systems. Many Indigenous Peoples have surface and/or sub-surface rights based on traditional use and occupancy, which may also be codified through treaties and other instruments, and their active participation is essential to the development of critical mineral projects. Respectful engagement and ongoing partnership with Indigenous authorities not only upholds legal obligations but also contributes to long-term project success, social licence to operate and inclusive economic development.

Companies must comply with federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governance frameworks. While this system reflects Canada's commitment to inclusive and responsible resource development, it can appear complex from the perspective of industry and investors. To address this, the federal government has established the Major Projects Office to streamline regulatory approvals and coordinate financing for projects of national interest - including those in the critical minerals sector. By adopting a "one project, one review" approach through collaboration with provinces and territories, with a commitment to a two-year regulatory review window for projects of national interest, the Office is designed to drive transformative change in Canada's regulatory and decision-making process, strengthening investor confidence in Canada's critical minerals industry.