Economic Impact
Mining touches more of BC’s economy than most people realize. From the mine site to the supply chain, the sector supports tens of thousands of jobs, funds public services, and keeps hundreds of communities across the province connected to opportunity. This page breaks down what that means in numbers.
BC mines don’t start from zero on emissions. They start from one of the cleanest electrical grids in North America, then invest from there. That’s a meaningful difference.
Mining in BC, by the numbers.
35,000+ Jobs
Mining and smelting in BC supports more than 35,000 workers, with an average annual salary of nearly $139,000.
$18B
The estimated annual economic impact of BC’s mining sector — accounting for 28% of the province’s total exports.
28%
Share of BC’s total exports produced by the mining sector
27 Projects
Proposed mines representing $90 billion in potential economic activity for BC and Canada
Mining revenue reaches every corner of BC
Every operating mine in BC runs on a supply chain. In 2022, BC’s mines purchased nearly $3.7 billion in goods and services from close to 4,000 businesses across 200 municipalities, towns, and First Nation communities. Vancouver, Kamloops, and Prince George all rank among the top five recipients of that spending — a sign that the sector’s economic reach extends well beyond resource regions.
Mining also contributes more than $3 billion annually in tax revenue to federal, provincial, and municipal governments, helping fund public services across the province.
27 projects. $90 billion in potential.
Twenty-seven mining projects are currently in advanced development across BC — covering critical minerals, precious metals, and steelmaking coal. Independently assessed by Mansfield Consulting Inc., these projects have the potential to generate $90 billion in economic output across their development and operational lifespans. Roughly 82 cents of every dollar generated would stay in BC.
Economic Research & Reports
MABC commissions independent economic analysis to provide policymakers, media, and the public with a clear, evidence-based picture of what BC mining means for the province. The studies below are available for download.
Work in Mining
Good pay. Real work. Careers worth looking at.
BC’s mining sector offers some of the highest-paying trades and technical careers in the province. Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to take the next step, we’ve gathered the resources to help you understand what a career in mining actually looks like.
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Mining affects more of BC than most people realize.
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