Mining Month 2025 - Securing B.C.'s Economic Future
In recognition of Mining Month, we examine the status of B.C.'s mining sector and identify areas for growth and capacity to meet the climate needs of the future.
Economic Benefits
Mining in B.C. supports over 35,000 jobs, generates $18 billion in annual economic activity, and accounts for nearly 30% of the province’s goods exports. It is a foundational pillar of our economy—providing opportunity in every region of the province and supporting nearly 4,000 small, medium, and First Nations businesses.
The 2025 Economic Impact Study released by MABC outlines the potential economic impact of 27 advanced development projects —including 18 critical mineral mines—that will provide essential benefits during a time of global economic uncertainty.
The development and construction of mines across B.C. represents a potential near-term investment of over $41 billion that could generate approximately $90 billion in economic activity for British Columbians and the projected long-term economic activity associated with their operations over several decades could reach $984 billion.
During construction alone, these projects are projected to deliver:
- $43 billion in GDP
- 340,000+ person-years of employment
- $27 billion in labour income
- Over $12 billion in tax revenues
The development of these projects provides a critical opportunity to strengthen local supply chains, accelerate economic reconciliation with First Nations through supply procurement, employment, and partnerships, and create generational prosperity for British Columbians
Why Mining Matters Now More Than Ever
In an era marked by mounting economic uncertainty and volatility, especially due to the impact of U.S. tariffs on the Canadian economy and the global trading system, B.C. must leverage every opportunity to secure its economic future and increase prosperity for all. Responsibly accelerating major projects like those in the mining sector is essential.
B.C. is home to 16 of Canada's 34 critical minerals, is Canada's largest copper producer, and the only producer of molybdenum. The province holds the world’s largest concentration of mining and exploration companies and industry expertise. B.C. is a leading supplier of responsibly produced materials. The province's critical mineral, precious metal, and steelmaking coal producers have among the lowest carbon footprints globally.
Our mining sector is already leading by example for the transition to a cleaner, low-carbon, responsible future. The clean energy transition requires critical minerals - we have a responsibility to help secure a safe climate and economic prosperity for future generations.
As stated by Michael Goehring, President and CEO of MABC "Mining has the potential to drive a new wave of economic growth – creating jobs, strengthening local and First Nations communities, and generating revenues for government services".
Aligning with the Agenda for Economic Growth
The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade launched the Agenda for Economic Growth – The 3% Challenge to call on governments to support policies that drive 3% annual real GDP growth. The mining sector, with its near-term investment readiness and long-term economic impact, exemplifies the kind of catalytic industry B.C. must lean into.
In our recent report, Simplify to Grow: Boosting Business in British Columbia, we identified regulatory barriers as a top concern for businesses. Mining is no exception. Lengthy permitting timelines continue to hold back private investment and delay the economic benefits tied to critical mineral development. Accelerating approvals—while maintaining environmental integrity—is not only possible, but imperative.
As B.C. looks to grow its economy, reduce emissions, and foster economic reconciliation, a modernized approach to major project development in mining can help deliver on all three fronts.