Mine Development Times in the US Compared to Peers

This report presents a detailed analysis of mine development times in the United States, comparing them with those in Canada and Australia. It outlines that the average time from discovery to production in the US is nearly 29 years, making it the second longest globally, only behind Zambia. The report highlights the significant uncertainties and litigation risks associated with mine development in the US, which contribute to longer timelines and deter investment compared to its peers. The analysis indicates that while Canada and Australia have more reliable production timelines, the US faces challenges due to a complex permitting process, particularly on federal lands. The report also discusses the implications of these development times on the US's ability to meet its mineral needs for energy transition, emphasizing that the country has a substantial mineral endowment that remains underutilized. The findings suggest that without addressing these issues, the US will continue to rely heavily on external sources for critical minerals necessary for its energy strategy.