Vancouver’s mining industry is powering a new wave of Alaska mining projects even as trade tensions and falling mineral prices strain global markets- At January’s Roundup convention hosted by Vancouver’s Association for Mineral Exploration, geologists, executives, and investors spotlighted Alaska’s vast untapped mineral potential.
The annual Alaska Night party at the Pan Pacific Hotel underscored the state’s growing importance to Vancouver-based junior mining companies. These firms, specializing in early-stage early-stage exploration, are leveraging Canada’s favorable tax and regulatory climate to fund operations across Alaska’s rugged landscape.
More than a dozen firms registered in Vancouver are eyeing Alaska’s mineral-rich terrain. Projects include Graphite One’s graphite venture near the Bering Strait, Trilogy Metals plans along the proposed Ambler Road, and American Pacific Mining’s controversial site above Haines.
Most of these companies maintain virtual offices in downtown Vancouver but invest millions in exploration across Alaska. While nickel and lithium markets face volatility, gold continues to dominate.
Over half the companies at Roundup showcased gold prospects, including several in Alaska, drawing significant investment due to gold’s record highs and global economic uncertainty. Amid the push for clean energy and national security, Alaska’s mineral wealth is drawing renewed attention.
The state may host 49 of 50 US-classified critical minerals, but most remain undiscovered, making Alaska mining projects funded from Vancouver a high-stakes gamble with global implications.
