From Davos to New Delhi, we’ve heard the Prime Minister say Canada has what the world wants as he secures new partnerships and investment.
Officials say that includes critical minerals and mining-related expertise in Northern Ontario.
It’s all on display this week in Toronto with the Northern Ontario Mining Showcase at the Prospectors and Developers of Canada Conference.
“There is a buzz on the floor like I haven’t seen,” says Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor. “People are not only talking about opportunity, but they’re talking about the sales that they’re making. They’re seeing a real growth in the interest of not just Northern Ontario but Canada as a strong and secure partner in the mining sector.”
She says the showcase celebrates Northern Ontario’s homegrown expertise, unlocks new business opportunities, and offers networking opportunities for Canadian companies.
Hajdu says there’s a lot of issues around the world that Canada cannot control, including sector shocks from tariffs, but there are some things we can.
“One of the things we can control is supporting our own industries and supporting our own sectors like mining to be a critical part of that supply chain as we talk about the automotive sector to the south of us,” she says. “I’m looking forward to seeing all of this energy and enthusiasm harnessed and put into action and that’s certainly what I’m seeing on the floor.”
Since 2015, the northern pavilion has nearly tripled in size and has helped participating businesses create more than 900 jobs and generate over $100 million in increased sales and exports.
On Sunday, Northern Ontario MPs, regional mayors, dignitaries, and others joined Hajdu to cut the ribbon and officially open the showcase.
A dozen of the 110 northern exhibitors are from our area.
