Newfoundland Mine Revival Positions Canada as Key Fluorspar Supplier
A significant milestone for North American mineral independence occurred in August when a bulk freighter departed St. Lawrence, Newfoundland, carrying more than just fluorspar—it marked the revival of Canada Fluorspar Inc. as the continent's only producer of this critical mineral. This development comes amid intense efforts by Canadian and American industries to secure supply chains independent of Chinese dominance.
Economic Revival and Long-Term Prospects
The mine's restart represents a major economic boost for St. Lawrence, a community where the operation previously employed approximately 250 people. Company leadership anticipates creating up to 300 jobs now that operations have resumed. Chief executive and chair Willem Jacobs, traveling from South Africa to the project site, emphasized the project's exceptional potential, stating the open pit mine could sustain both ore production and employment for an impressive 30-year period.
"It's very seldom that you find industrial minerals with a mine life this long," Jacobs noted. "The mineralogy is pretty consistent. While other global mines might have higher grades, they often face different operational challenges."
Strategic Importance in Global Supply Chains
The St. Lawrence facility produces acid-grade fluorspar (acidspar), a high-purity form essential for manufacturing everything from aluminum to lithium-ion batteries. So far in 2025, Canada Fluorspar has processed and shipped approximately 8,500 tonnes to a prominent, though undisclosed, United States client.
This production addresses a critical vulnerability in North American supply chains. Currently, China accounts for roughly 80% of global fluorspar production, but recent export restrictions from China have accelerated efforts in Canada and the United States to develop domestic sources. The strategic importance of fluorspar was formally recognized when it was among 12 minerals added to Canada's critical minerals list in the federal budget.
Government Support and Financial Strategy
The federal government has established a $2 billion critical minerals sovereign fund to support Canadian projects through equity investments, loan guarantees, and offtake agreements. While Jacobs confirms his company is exploring these potential supports, he initially believes Canada Fluorspar may not qualify. The company is currently seeking to raise $100 million in financing.
"We're likely looking at a primary investor with a co-investor," Jacobs explained, adding that he would welcome government participation. "Government processes understandably move more deliberately than the private sector. Their cautious approach is appropriate—they shouldn't be replacing private investment."
The mine's revival follows a challenging period after the previous operation entered receivership in 2022, leaving numerous unpaid obligations. Jacobs acquired the assets in 2023, bringing to fruition his long-standing interest in fluorspar that began decades earlier when he analyzed global supplies while serving as Barrick Mining Corp.'s chief operating officer.
While Canada Fluorspar currently stands as North America's only active producer, Ares Strategic Mining Inc. is working to restart its Sheep Mine in Utah, potentially creating additional North American production capacity in the future.
