Evaluating Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy: Opportunities and Challenges in Developing Ultramafic Nickel Resources

This paper examines the effectiveness of Canada’s 2022 Critical MineralsCritical minerals Strategy in facilitating nickelNickel (Ni) extraction from ultramafic sulfide oresUltramafic sulfide ores, which have the ability to expand Canada’s Ni reservesCanada nickel reserves tenfold. Potential reserves, estimated in excess of 17,000 kt, underscore the strategic opportunity; however, the complex mineralogy of ultramafic deposits, compounded by permittingPermitting bottlenecks, limits investment appeal and project viability. Additionally, Indonesia’s Ni surplus has intensified global competition, impacting new Canadian projects. The paper highlights the need for improved permittingPermitting efficiencies, suggesting that collaborative digital platforms and community engagement frameworks could expedite regulatory processes without compromising environmental or stakeholder standards. This analysis underscores the urgency of strategic adjustments to support Canada’s critical mineral goals and foster a competitive domestic Ni supplySupply.