Enterprise Saskatchewan

An abundance of mineral wealth makes Saskatchewan a world leader in potash and uranium.

Saskatchewan has two of the most desired minerals in the world – potash and uranium. In fact, with about 30% of global potash production and 18% of global uranium production, Saskatchewan is the world's leading supplier of both commodities. The prairie province also produces gold, coal, salt, silica sands, kaolin, sodium and potassium sulphate, as well as clays.

In 2010, Saskatchewan's mineral production was the second highest in Canada, with sales amounting to $6.9 billion. In the past three years, more than $1.1 billion has been spent on exploration. Currently, the province is exploring opportunities to add value to its vast uranium resources in some areas of the nuclear cycle.

The discovery of the world's largest field of diamond-bearing kimberlite pipes has led to extensive exploration and drilling for diamonds. The province also has endowments of copper, zinc, nickel, rare earth minerals and platinum group elements.

Mining companies are attracted by Saskatchewan's efficient regulatory environment and strong investment opportunities. Saskatchewan has a 10-year royalty holiday for new gold and base metal mines. The province was rated the world's third best mining investment jurisdiction in the Fraser Institute's Survey of Mining Companies 2010/2011.

Learn more about Saskatchewan's minerals industry in the fact sheet attached below in PDF format.