Saskatchewan launches 3% lithium royalty with two-year holiday to attract $7B in mining investment.

Saskatchewan has launched a new royalty framework for lithium and other minerals from brine aquifers, setting a 3% Crown royalty with a two-year royalty holiday for new production. The move aims to boost investment and position the province as a leader in critical minerals, aligning with existing rates for potash and salt. The province expects over $7 billion in mining investment in 2025, more than a quarter of Canada’s total. Industry leaders say the structure balances fair returns with high upfront costs.