Written submission to NRCan’s “Let’s Talk Critical Minerals” consultation on Canada’s Critical Minerals List criteria

As part of NRCan’s commitment to triennial updates to Canada’s Critical Minerals List, a consultation was initiated regarding the criteria used to develop and update the List. The proposed changes to the criteria, intended to clarify the original assessment of minerals for criticality, would require that a mineral be:

• Essential to Canada’s economic or national security; or
• Required for our national transition to a sustainable low-carbon and digital economy; or
• A sustainable and strategic source of critical minerals for our international allies.

While meeting both of the following mandatory criteria:

• Mineral supply is threatened; and
• Has a reasonable likelihood of being produced in Canada.

In addition to the presented submission, PDAC participated in virtual consultation engagements with NRCan. It should be noted that the consultation’s scope was limited to the Critical Minerals List criteria; commentary on the inclusion of specific minerals on the List or as part of funding programs or tax incentives has therefore not been provided.