The critical and strategic minerals sector carries significant geopolitical weight. These minerals — essential for renewable energy, batteries, semiconductors, medical equipment, transportation, telecoms, and defense — are currently dominated by China’s supply. As a result, public and private sector leaders are seeking alternative sources.
The week began with a reception at our offices, where Delegate General David Brulotte opened with remarks highlighting his hopes for meaningful dialogue and opportunities for the 16 Québec companies in attendance. He introduced Ian Morissette, Associate Deputy Minister for Mines, who emphasized Québec’s potential as a global leader in critical minerals.
At the conference, hosted by our partners at A&O Shearman, both Brulotte and Morissette addressed an audience of investment bankers, engineers, geologists, and executives from around the world, underscoring Québec’s favorable environment for developing mining projects. The province boasts rich reserves of graphite, lithium, gold, copper, aluminum, titanium, gallium, cobalt, and nickel — positioning it as a key player outside China.
Beyond resources, Investissement Québec, the province’s investment arm, has built a strong infrastructure network enabling minerals to be mined, processed, refined, and exported locally. As Mark Rice, Senior Vice President at Auramet International Inc., put it: “Québec is very appealing, with reliable and supportive agencies.”
Speakers also pointed to Québec’s advantages:
- Strong public support for mining projects and commitment to maintaining good relations with First Nations.
- Over 99% renewable hydroelectricity powering operations, reducing environmental impact.
- Government investment in innovation and technologies like surgical mining, which allows more precise drilling and reduces waste.
The conference was a resounding success, fostering lasting partnerships between the U.S. and Québec and reaffirming our province’s role in the future of responsible mineral development.
This article was written on May 28th, 2025, but published on August 19th, 2025, for technical reasons.
