Canada’s Mineral Exports Hit Record High, Gold Becomes Second-Largest Export

加拿大矿产出口创记录
Published on: May 21, 2025
Author: Caroline Kong

A recent new report by the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) reveals that Canada’s mining sector contributed C$117 billion, accounting for 4% to the country’s GDP in 2023. Meanwhile, driven by rising commodity prices, gold production surged, surpassing passenger vehicles to become Canada’s second-largest export.

Canada produces over 60 minerals and metals through mining activities. In 2023, the total value of mineral production reached C$71.9 billion, up significantly from C$58.6 billion in 2021. This growth was primarily fueled by increased production values for non-metallic minerals and coal.

Since 2000, the total value of Canada’s mineral and metal production has quadrupled. As a global leader in mineral production, Canada is the world’s top producer of potash, the second-largest producer of niobium and uranium, and the third-largest producer of gem-quality diamonds (by value) and palladium (by metal content).

Pierre Gratton, CEO of MAC, stated: “Despite economic headwinds, mining remains a pillar of stable growth for Canada’s economy. As Canada and its allies work to secure critical minerals for economic, security, and climate goals, fully developing our mineral potential could unlock tremendous wealth opportunities.”

The report highlights that the mining sector directly employs 430,000 workers in high-quality jobs and supports an additional 281,000 indirect jobs—meaning 1 in every 28 Canadian workers is linked to the industry. Mining is also a key employer for Indigenous communities, providing jobs for over 12,000 Indigenous individuals in 2023.

Looking ahead, the industry will need more than 100,000 new workers over the next decade. While progress has been made in Indigenous recruitment, MAC emphasizes the need to attract more women, young workers, and minorities to reflect Canada’s workforce diversity. Additionally, increasing the number of university and college graduates in mining-related fields is crucial to building a strong talent pipeline.

Gratton cautioned that Canada cannot take its mining strength for granted. “Geopolitical challenges, national security concerns, the transition to a low-carbon economy, and the need to build a resilient economy amid trade barriers will drive mineral demand far beyond current production levels,” he said. “Canada’s mining sector is better positioned than most to withstand economic shocks from tariffs—now is the time to double down on investment and strengthen this vital industry.”

With record-breaking mineral exports and growing global demand, Canada’s mining sector is poised to play a pivotal role in the economy of the future.

Energy Metals Gold Mining Precious Metals