OUR RESOURCES. OUR FUTURE.

Natural resources are, and will always be, foundational to British Columbia’s economy. They deliver the materials we need to build our homes, businesses and transportation networks, the good jobs and revenues needed for thriving communities, and the energy we need to power our society.

The 2026 BC Natural Resources Forum comes at critical moment for British Columbia. Over the past year President Trump has slammed our economy with punishing tariffs, with extra levies against many of our most important resource industries. In response, we’ve been redoubling our efforts to expand our trading partnerships and make British Columbia into the economic engine of Canada with natural resources front and central to that strategy.

This year’s forum offers an important opportunity for First Nations, governments, and the natural resource sector to come together, build stronger relationships, and find ways to leverage our advantages to benefit people and communities.

My team and I look forward to participating in the 2026 BC Natural Resources Forum, and working together to create a stable, attractive investment climate so we can play a lead role in Canada’s economic future, and deliver jobs and benefits to British Columbians today and for generations to come.

As Patron Sponsor, Rio Tinto BC Works is honoured to support this important gathering of leaders, communities, and innovators who are shaping the future of British Columbia’s resource economy.

The theme of this year’s Forum-Momentum for Continued Growth-reflects the rising support for a modern, inclusive approach to resource development. Our commitment to low-carbon innovation, community impact, and economic growth is matched by our dedication to building respectful and enduring partnerships with Indigenous communities.

The strength of the relationships we have with the communities that host us, our First Nation partners and broader society, is central to our business. Although making aluminium, by its very nature, can affect the environment and surrounding communities, it brings with it significant economic opportunities and social benefits. These include the production of essential materials, job creation, small business growth, tax and royalty contributions, skills development, and socioeconomic programs. We know our operations can have a lasting impact, and that we have a responsibility to shape that impact in a way that helps build strong, thriving communities wherever we operate.

This forum is an opportunity to listen, learn, and lead-together. We look forward to the conversations and collaborations that will help us build a more resilient, equitable, and low-carbon future for all British Columbians.