Ontario’s “Fortress Am-Can” Plan for Critical Minerals
Ontario Premier Doug Ford introduced a strategic initiative dubbed “Fortress Am-Can” on Monday, aiming to strengthen North America’s critical minerals supply chain. The plan emphasizes expanding the continent’s capacity to process metals and minerals, which are essential for advanced technologies, including military applications. Ford also proposed accelerating approval processes for mining projects, addressing a longstanding bottleneck in the Canadian mining sector.
In a statement, Ford highlighted the geopolitical significance of critical minerals. “The success of Fortress Am-Can depends on the critical minerals needed for new technologies, including advanced military technologies that will define geopolitical and economic security for the next century,” he said.
The announcement underscores Ontario’s intent to reduce reliance on global mineral processing leaders like China and to prioritize domestic production and cooperation with the United States.
Rising Trade Tensions with the US
Ford’s proposal comes at a time of heightened trade tensions, with former President Donald Trump poised to reimpose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods. Trump, who is set to take office next week, has reignited concerns about a potential trade war, prompting Canadian leaders to advocate for collaborative solutions to protect key industries.
Speaking at a press conference in Toronto, Ford expressed his willingness to enhance shipments of critical minerals and energy resources to the United States. However, he also warned of retaliatory measures should the US proceed with tariff plans. Ford suggested that Ontario could consider cutting electricity exports to the US, among other actions.
“Make no mistake about it, if they’re coming full-tilt at us, I won’t hesitate to pull out every single tool we have until they can feel the pain. But that’s the last thing I want to do,” he said.
Canada’s Mining Challenges and Global Competition
Canada, home to over 200 mines and nearly half of the world’s publicly listed mining companies, holds a prominent position in the global mining landscape. However, prolonged permitting timelines—sometimes extending up to 25 years—remain a significant hurdle for expanding the industry.
Meanwhile, China continues to dominate the critical minerals sector, controlling the majority of global processing facilities. This presents a formidable challenge for Western nations seeking to reduce dependence on the Asian powerhouse.
Ford stressed the urgency of enhancing Canada’s mining output to counter China’s dominance. “At a time when China is winning the race to dominate these resources while also restricting the sale and shipment of critical minerals to the US, Canada and Ontario need to urgently get our critical minerals out of the ground, processed and shipped to the factory floors that are building for the future,” he stated.
The “Fortress Am-Can” plan reflects Ontario’s strategic vision to secure its economic future while navigating potential trade conflicts with the US. By accelerating domestic mining and fostering cross-border collaboration, the province aims to position itself as a key player in the critical minerals supply chain.
