Saskatchewan Leads Canada in Mining Investment Appeal

Saskatchewan Leads Canada in Mining Investment Attractiveness, Fraser Institute Survey Finds

By Archyde Staff

July 30, 2025

Saskatchewan has once again claimed the top spot in Canada for its mining investment appeal. The Fraser Institute’s Annual Survey of Mining Companies for 2024 ranked the province first nationally among 82 jurisdictions worldwide.

Globally, Saskatchewan secured the seventh position. This remarkable international standing is largely attributed to its strong performance in policy and regulatory perception.

“These results from the Fraser Institute speak to Saskatchewan’s strong and steady approach to attracting mining investment,” stated Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young.The province offers excellent incentive programs for mineral advancement and maintains its reputation for being responsive, stable, and predictable for investors.

The survey evaluated regions based on policy perception and mineral potential. saskatchewan excelled in policy perception, ranking first in Canada and third globally. Factors like policy certainty, environmental regulation, the legal system, and skilled labor supply contributed to this strong showing.

furthermore, Saskatchewan’s geological database ranked fourth worldwide. this highlights the cutting-edge mapping technology and high-quality geoscience data provided by the Saskatchewan Geological Survey, alongside its extensive core sample libraries.

“Achieving the number one ranking in Canada is due to our ability to work constructively and collaboratively with government to enable policies that attract investment,” said Saskatchewan Mining Association President Pam Schwann.

Last year, Saskatchewan saw record production levels in both potash and uranium. Potash production reached approximately 24.7 million tonnes of potassium chloride.

The province also set new records for uranium production and sales, reaching 16,700 tonnes and $2.6 billion, respectively. Saskatchewan is a significant player in the critical minerals sector, home to 27 of the 34 minerals on Canada’s critical minerals list.

Beyond uranium and potash, the province anticipates substantial growth in critical minerals. Helium production is on the rise, and key projects involving lithium, copper, and zinc are expected to commence production within the next year.

What specific government policies are in place to incentivize rare earth element (REE) mining in Saskatchewan?

Why Saskatchewan is a Mining Hotspot

Saskatchewan is rapidly becoming the premier destination for mining investment in Canada. This isn’t just hype; a confluence of factors – rich mineral deposits, a supportive regulatory surroundings, and strategic infrastructure – are driving significant capital into the province’s mining sector. Investors are increasingly recognizing Saskatchewan’s potential, leading to a surge in exploration, development, and production across various commodities. Key minerals attracting attention include potash, uranium, lithium, and rare earth elements.

The Province’s Abundant Mineral Resources

Saskatchewan boasts a geological landscape exceptionally rich in economically viable mineral deposits. Here’s a breakdown of key resources:

Potash: Saskatchewan holds over 90% of Canada’s potash reserves, making it a global leader in production.Demand for potash, a crucial component in fertilizers, continues to rise with global population growth and increasing agricultural needs.

Uranium: the province is also a major uranium producer, supplying a significant portion of the world’s nuclear fuel. The athabasca Basin is renowned for its high-grade uranium deposits.

Lithium: Emerging as a critical battery metal, Saskatchewan is witnessing a surge in lithium exploration. Several promising brine and hard rock lithium projects are underway.

Rare Earth elements (REEs): Saskatchewan’s geological formations contain considerable REE deposits, vital for manufacturing high-tech products like smartphones, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies.

Other Minerals: Gold, diamonds, zinc, and copper are also actively mined or explored within the province.

A Favorable Regulatory Climate for Mining

Saskatchewan’s government actively promotes mining investment through a streamlined and predictable regulatory framework. This includes:

1. efficient Permitting Processes: The province has worked to reduce red tape and expedite the permitting process for mining projects, making it easier for companies to get projects off the ground.
2. Competitive Tax Rates: Saskatchewan offers competitive tax rates for mining companies, enhancing profitability and attracting investment.
3. Supportive Government Policies: The government actively supports the mining industry through funding for research and development, infrastructure improvements, and workforce training programs.
4. Indigenous Engagement: Saskatchewan emphasizes meaningful consultation and partnerships with Indigenous communities, fostering positive relationships and ensuring responsible resource development. This is increasingly crucial for project success.

Infrastructure Advantages Fueling Growth

Robust infrastructure is a cornerstone of Saskatchewan’s mining appeal.

Transportation Network: A well-developed network of highways, railways, and pipelines facilitates the efficient transportation of minerals to domestic and international markets.

Power supply: Saskatchewan has a reliable and affordable power supply, essential for energy-intensive mining operations.

Skilled Workforce: The province boasts a skilled workforce with expertise in mining, engineering, and related fields. educational institutions offer specialized training programs to meet the industry’s evolving needs.

Strategic Location: Saskatchewan’s central location in North America provides convenient access to key markets in Canada, the United States, and beyond.

Recent Investment Highlights & Case Studies

Several recent investments demonstrate Saskatchewan’s growing appeal:

Nutrien’s Potash Expansion: Nutrien, the world’s largest potash producer, continues to invest heavily in expanding its potash production capacity in Saskatchewan, signaling strong confidence in long-term demand.

Lithium Canada Development: Multiple companies are actively developing lithium brine projects in Saskatchewan, including Lithium Canada Development, attracting significant investment and creating new economic opportunities.

Uranium Exploration: Cameco, a leading uranium producer, is actively exploring and developing new uranium deposits in the Athabasca Basin, reinforcing Saskatchewan’s position as a uranium powerhouse.

Rare Earth Element Projects: Several junior mining companies are focused on exploring and developing REE deposits in northern Saskatchewan, driven by growing demand for these critical minerals.

Benefits of Investing in Saskatchewan’s Mining Sector

Investing in Saskatchewan’s mining sector offers a range of benefits:

High Return on Investment: The province’s rich mineral resources and favorable business environment provide the potential for high returns on investment.

Political Stability: Saskatchewan enjoys a stable political climate, reducing investment risk.

Long-Term Growth Potential: The demand for critical minerals is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, ensuring long-term growth potential for Saskatchewan’s mining sector.

ESG Considerations: Saskatchewan is increasingly focused on enduring mining practices and responsible resource development, aligning with growing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns.

Practical Tips for Mining Investors

For investors considering opportunities in Saskatchewan’s mining sector:

Conduct Thorough Due Diligence: Carefully evaluate the geological potential, economic viability, and regulatory compliance of any potential investment.

Engage with Local Communities: Build strong relationships with Indigenous communities and other stakeholders to ensure project success.

Seek expert Advice: Consult with experienced mining professionals, geologists, and legal advisors to navigate the complexities of the industry.

* Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest developments in the mining sector, including regulatory changes, commodity price fluctuations, and technological advancements.