Framework established for developing provincial minerals strategy

Press Release

Oct 27, 2025

FREDERICTON – The government has taken another step toward its goal of unlocking the potential of New Brunswick’s mining sector.

A framework for the development of a comprehensive minerals strategy was released at the 50th annual Exploration, Mining and Petroleum Conference, which started Sunday and ends Tuesday in Fredericton. The strategy is expected to be ready by next spring.

“Mineral resources are essential to our economy and daily life, from clean energy to technology,” said Natural Resources Minister John Herron. “Consulting and working with First Nations, stakeholders and sector participants, our strategy will be agile, transparent and environmentally responsible, and will attract investment in mineral development to position New Brunswick as a province where investment generates economic benefits for those investing in mineral development, as well as communities and First Nations, and for all New Brunswickers.”

The framework is built on five pillars:

• streamlining regulatory and permitting processes

• promoting awareness

• meaningful Indigenous participation

• enhancing investment environment

• planning for local benefits

These pillars are meant to help establish New Brunswick as a responsible and competitive jurisdiction for mineral resource development, signal that the province is open for business, and support the long-term sustainability of the sector. A commitment to environmental stewardship and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples are also central in the development of a strategy.

“A cornerstone of this strategy will be its commitment to be both environmentally responsible and to involve robust First Nations participation,” said Herron. “Upcoming legislative and regulatory changes will ensure processes for investors are rigorous, not onerous, as well as timely and predictable, while at the same time ensuring that proponents are tested at every corner.”

Industry leaders, investors, policy-makers, researchers and students attend the annual Exploration, Mining and Petroleum Conference to explore new opportunities and advance innovation in mineral exploration and development. Highlights include presentations describing current mineral exploration and development projects in New Brunswick; thematic sessions on environmental, social and governance principles; discussions on reconciliation and innovation; a trade show featuring exploration and development projects; and networking opportunities to build partnerships across the sector.

More information about the conference is available online.

Media Contact(s)

Nick Brown, communications, Department of Natural Resources, nick.brown@gnb.ca.

IBF5