As British Columbia breaks another spending record for mineral exploration, Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) B.C.’s president and CEO Keerit Jutla is convinced the province is turning the corner on several fronts.
“We’re on the cusp of an exciting era,” Jutla told The Northern Miner in a mid-December interview. “With a record $740 million invested in 2022, we’re not just breaking ground; we’re breaking records.”
That amount, up 12.2% from the $659.8 million spent in 2021, has Jutla feeling optimistic in the run-up to the AME Roundup conference, which returns to Vancouver Jan. 22-25.
Jutla, who took the AME reins from Kendra Johnston in August, says the province is making progress on reducing permitting timelines, improved Indigenous relationships and reconciliation, and implementing a dynamic policy-making process.
Key to B.C.’s appeal is its commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing, Jutla said. In his view, the province is distinguished by its strong relationships with Indigenous peoples, a proactive approach to reconciliation, and dedication to a low-carbon future.
Despite recent Supreme court decisions that affect the Mineral Tenure Act and cast the spotlight firmly on Indigenous reconciliation and community relationships, Jutla says these efforts, still evolving, involve collaboration among all parties to foster certainty, transparency, and efficiency in development processes.
“This collaborative, forward-looking ethos is a major attractor for investors in B.C.,” Jutla said.
Jutla further touched on the importance of ensuring certainty, transparency, and efficiency in the province’s permitting process, noting recent improvements in this area, such as reduced permitting times and a decreased backlog. He attributes these advancements to the efforts of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation minister Josie Osborne and her ministry.
This year’s Roundup — the 40th anniversary of the event — is themed ‘Exploring for Value,’ and aims to reinforce B.C.’s status as a global leader in sustainable mineral exploration and development. Seen as the first yearly agenda-setting industry event, the Roundup will feature cutting-edge geoscience knowledge, high-grade samples, and the latest in mining technology and innovation.
“Our content is relevant and timely, delivered by high-calibre speakers, engaging exhibitors, and inspiring presenters,” said Jutla, adding the program will invite the world to think big, bold, and critically about the future of mineral exploration.
While the event agenda is still being finalized, some of the keynote speakers confirmed include 2022 Canadian Mining Hall of Fame member Robert Quartermain, who will share insights from his 39-year exploration career in B.C., the evolution of Pretium Resources’ — now Newmont’s (NYSE: NEM) — Brucejack mine, and attracting talent to the industry.
Jutla brings a decade’s worth of resource law experience, with a significant role in fostering First Nations partnerships. His work has focused on streamlining permitting processes and promoting Indigenous rights within the resource sector. Jutla’s educational background combines political science with an MBA and JD, specializing in natural resources and Aboriginal law.
His vision for the association and industry at large is one of unity and progressive advancement. “It’s about bringing different voices to the table — prospectors, companies, and communities — to embrace the opportunities ahead and demonstrate that reconciliation and a low-carbon future are pillars of a strong resource economy,” he said.
Reflecting on the state of the industry, Jutla highlighted B.C.’s competitive advantages, from mines to the markets.
“We’re leading the charge,” he said. “Our proactive policies and collaborative processes set us apart, ensuring that B.C. not only competes but leads in the global mining arena.”
He also mentioned the significant interest from international investors, namely Australian, that B.C. continues to attract, which speaks to its global reputation.
Moreover, Jutla emphasized the province’s potential and future within the critical minerals sector, suggesting that the forthcoming government’s critical mineral strategy could further enhance B.C.’s competitive edge compared to other Canadian jurisdictions.
He also noted the technological advancements in the industry and the integration of traditional and Indigenous knowledge, which are shaping B.C. as a leader in sustainable and collaborative mineral exploration.
The 2024 Roundup is set to draw thousands of people from the global community, including geoscientists, prospectors, investors, and Indigenous partners. Last year, the AME hosted about 5,800 attendees from 39 countries.
Other program highlights include the Government-Industry forum, regional, commodities, and financial markets overviews, a reconciliation breakfast, and geoscience innovation.
See roundup.amebc.ca for more details.
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