BC Approves Copper Mountain Mine Expansion Near Princeton

The British Columbia government approved the expansion of Hudbay Minerals (TSX: HBM) Copper Mountain mine on Monday, extending the open-pit copper and gold operation’s lifespan by 12 years and sustaining roughly 800 jobs in the province’s southern Interior.

The Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals issued permits under both the Mines Act and the Environmental Management Act for the New Ingerbelle expansion near Princeton. The approvals authorize the mine to continue operations beyond 2040.

Based on current reserves, the mine is projected to produce approximately 750,000 tonnes of copper, 25.5 tonnes of gold, and 156 tonnes of silver over its extended lifespan.

“Mining is an important part of our economy, and the Copper Mountain mine has supported jobs in the Princeton area and southern BC for many years,” said Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals. 

“BC is Canada’s largest copper producer. Through projects like this, we can continue to lead the way in responsible growth of the critical minerals sector, while maintaining world-class environmental and safety standards and supporting local communities.”

The review process included formal engagement with the Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Lower Similkameen Indian Band, local governments, and technical regulators.

This is the third major mine permit in 2026, following the Eskay Creek and Mount Milligan permits issued in January. It is also the sixth mining approval in the past 12 months, a stretch that included Dome Mountain, the Quintette Mine restart, and the Highland Valley Copper expansion.

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