“By developing this strategy, we will strengthen Ontario’s position as one of North America’s premier jurisdictions for responsibly sourced critical minerals, including rare earth elements,” said Greg Rickford, minister of energy, northern development and mines and minister of indigenous affairs. “We are confident this will generate investment, reduce red tape, create jobs and advance indigenous participation in the sector. Local and global markets, including Ontario-based industries, are looking for reliable, responsibly sourced critical minerals and we are ready to capitalize on this growing market demand.” Rickford said Ontario is well-positioned to become a global supplier, producer and manufacturer of choice for certain critical minerals, including nickel, copper, cobalt and platinum group elements.

“With an abundance of the critical minerals in northern Ontario, along with a competitive business climate, innovation and talent, Ontario is well-positioned to become a leader in the future of electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing,” said Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job creation and trade. “In fact, recent proposed investments of almost $6 billion over the last several months in Ontario’s auto sector will make our province a global hub for EV manufacturing, making us stronger and more resilient as we continue to work toward economic recovery.”

The province released a discussion paper for public consultation on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. A consultation with industry and indigenous communities will help guide the development of the strategy to be released this fall. In 2019, Ontario produced more than $10 billion worth of minerals, accounting for 22% of Canada’s total mineral production.

Ontario minerals are already part of a globally integrated supply chain and Ontario minerals are used in products worldwide. In October 2020, the province announced funding to retool Ford of Canada’s Oakville Assembly Complex, transforming Ontario into a global electric vehicle manufacturing hub.2021.