New Brunswick moves to revive key antimony mine with Avenir Minerals

The New Brunswick government is moving to reopen the former Lake George antimony mine, a site once North America's largest producer of the mineral. The province has selected Avenir Minerals, a subsidiary of Agnico Eagle Mines, to begin exploration and work toward an agreement for the mine's revival.

Antimony is classified as a critical mineral by Canada, the United States, and the European Union. Its importance stems from its use in manufacturing flame retardants and lead-acid batteries, making it essential for national security. The global supply chain for antimony is heavily concentrated in China, prompting Western nations to seek domestic sources.

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The province says Canada, the United States and the European Union all consider antimony a critical mineral, as the global supply is heavily concentrated in China.

This initiative by New Brunswick reflects a broader trend among Western governments to bolster domestic supply chains for critical minerals. The province aims to revitalize its mining sector by tapping into renewed interest in secure, local production.

A spokesperson for the Natural Resources Department stated that the agreement with Avenir Minerals will be finalized over the coming months. Avenir Minerals CEO Alden Greenhouse expressed his company's commitment to collaborating with the province, local communities, and Indigenous Peoples throughout the process.

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his company will work collaboratively with the province, local communities, Indigenous Peoples and others as part of the process.