The Voice of BC Mining Since 1901

MABC represents the mines, smelters and development projects behind BC’s mining sector. We advocate for sound public policy, communicate with the public and work to keep BC’s mining industry competitive for the benefit of all British Columbians.

Over a Century of Mining Advocacy

As a member-based trade association representing BC’s critical mineral, precious metal, and steelmaking coal producers, smelters, and advanced development companies, MABC’s role is to advocate for public policies that support responsible mining and the growth of the sector — and make the case why that matters to British Columbians.

BC’s mining sector supports more than 56,000 jobs in rural and urban communities and an extensive supply chain of nearly 4,000 small, medium and First Nation businesses across the province.

  1. Founded by the BC Legislature
  2. Helping to Build British Columbia
  3. Navigating an Evolving Landscape
  4. Critical Minerals, National Interest
1901

Founded by the BC Legislature

MABC was established at the turn of the century on May 11, 1901, to give BC’s growing mining industry a formal voice. As one of the oldest trade associations in the province, MABC exists to represent the mining industry’s interests, and make the case for mining as a driver of provincial economic prosperity. The Association’s first head office was located in Nelson, BC.

Mid-20th Century

Helping to Build British Columbia

The late 1950s and 1960s were a time of province-building under Premier WAC Bennett who sought to develop BC and its place in confederation by building transportation infrastructure, pipelines and hydro electric power along with the province’s natural resources, including its rich mineral endowment. Large scale mining began in the 1960s and MABC was right there as a consistent and reliable voice in provincial resource policy discussions.

1990s–2000s

Navigating an Evolving Landscape

In recent decades, environmental standards have improved, First Nations partnerships have grown, and global commodity markets have shifted. All the while, MABC and its members have led the way in adapting to meet rising expectations around mine safety, environmental stewardship, community and First Nations consultation.

Today

Critical Minerals, National Interest

Recognized as a global mining centre, BC is home to more than 950 mining, junior mining and exploration companies–with a combined market cap of $449 billion–and one of the largest concentrations of industry related professionals in the world. Today,  BC’s critical minerals are central to the economic and national security objectives of Canada and our allies. We have the critical minerals, precious metals, and steelmaking coal the world needs, and MABC is instrumental in advocating for the right conditions to support mining and the economic future of our province.

Our Partners

MABC works with a range of organizations that support BC’s mining sector — from industry research bodies to training programs and national associations. These relationships extend our reach and strengthen the resources available to our members and the industry.

MSABC

MSABC (The Mining Suppliers Association of B.C.) is a non-profit association, affiliated with MABC. It is comprised of mine suppliers and service providers, to the BC mining industry who make up a vast BC-based supply chain that serve the BC industry and mines around the world.

Visit Website
AME

AME represents, advocates, protects, and promotes the interests of thousands of members who are engaged in mineral exploration and development in BC and throughout the world.

Visit Website
MAC

The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) has been the national voice of the Canadian mining industry since 1935 and represents the industry in Ottawa with the Government of Canada.

Visit Website
MineralsEd

MineralsEd is an educational organization operating in British Columbia that is dedicated to encouraging and supporting Earth science, mineral resources and mining education in schools.

Visit Website
Stay Informed

Mining benefits BC more than most people realize

Sign up for updates on the issues, reports, and decisions that shape the industry.