The Ontario government introduced new legislation Thursday aimed at slashing permitting delays for major mining and infrastructure projects, including in the Ring of Fire, as the province looks to strengthen economic resilience amid growing trade friction with the United States.
Titled the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, the proposed law would streamline multi-ministry approvals under a “One Project, One Process” model, cutting review times by half while maintaining environmental and Indigenous consultation standards.
Premier Doug Ford called the move necessary to compete globally. “We’re cutting red tape to unlock our critical minerals and unleash our economy,” he said, warning that some projects currently take up to 15 years to get approved.
The legislation proposes designated economic zones for priority projects, stricter rules on foreign access to Ontario’s energy grid, and simplified species-at-risk compliance procedures.
It also includes a $20-million annual fund for conservation and removes fees from the province’s environmental registry.
Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce framed the legislation as a response to U.S. protectionism. “We’re ensuring Canada stands on its own two feet,” he said, referencing recent threats from former U.S. president Donald Trump.
The bill was welcomed by industry groups and Indigenous partnerships.
“This is a strong commitment to support mine development,” said Generation Mining CEO Jamie Levy.
Ontario plans to designate its first economic zone by September.
