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Title: Confronting US Tariffs with Critical Minerals, Canada’s Energy Minister Seeks Pathway Out
In the midst of a growing trade dispute between Canada and the United States over tariffs, Canadian Energy Minister Wilkinson has emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to stockpile critical minerals and advance mineral processing technologies. Wilkinson has called for an immediate pause in tariffs to facilitate meaningful discussions on how to strengthen North American interests and national security.
According to data from the Government of Canada’s 2024 Critical Minerals Strategy Annual Report, China has stopped or curtailed exports of several critical minerals to the US within less than two years. Similarly, China halted shipments to Japan in 2010. In response, Wilkinson believes that Canada and the US must work together to secure North American interests and protect allies in Europe and Asia.
Wilkinson has also stressed the importance of securing stronger alliances with key partners like Japan, South Korea, the European Union, and Australia, a crucial mineral producer. He highlights that these nations have already demonstrated interest in investing in Canadian critical mineral projects, citing the Japanese government’s significant investment in several initiatives.
As Canada seeks to strengthen its energy security and accelerate the growth of its mining industry, Wilkinson emphasized his commitment to incentivizing private capital through tax credits for new projects and the establishment of an infrastructure fund. Additionally, he aims to streamline regulatory processes by aligning federal and provincial procedures.
Wilkinson’s efforts have already yielded tangible results. In a short period, he has managed to secure $1.5 billion for transportation and infrastructure initiatives and $192 million in funding for innovative processing technologies.
