The Government of Canada will once again participate in Mining Indaba 2023 to showcase Canada’s various competencies in the Mining sector, to the African continent. This year, the High Commission of Canada’s Trade Office in Johannesburg is supporting sixteen Canadian mining companies to Mining Indaba.Â
Canada is a global leader in the mining and mineral processing industry. Canada’s focus on improving conditions and practices within this sector remains a priority.  This can be seen in the implementation of the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), and new Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) Abroad Strategy (2022-2027). The IAA creates a more efficient and predictable regulatory system, increasing certainty for investment in projects. The RBC strategy promotes the adoption of world leading responsible business practices, mitigates risks, improves competitive advantages and contributes to a stronger and more inclusive economy.
Canada has been blessed with abundant resource wealth and is an important and reliable source of critical minerals to the world. In December 2022, Canada released the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy, which is designed to support economic growth, promote climate action, advance reconciliation with indigenous peoples, foster diverse and inclusive workplaces, and, finally, enhance global security. In addition, Canada has joined the Minerals Security Partnership, which includes Australia, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union. The goal of the MSP is to promote the ethical production, processing and recycling of critical minerals that can support the global need for electric vehicles and advanced batteries. Canada is well poised to participate in the critical minerals value chain.
As we return to Mining Indaba this year, we look forward to collaborating with colleagues on the African continent on mutual interests and sharing of best practices.
On behalf of the Government of Canada and the High Commission of Canada’s Trade Office, we wish all the delegates a successful and productive conference.
H.E Chris Cooter