The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) estimates that B.C. could see $30 billion in investment from 30 projects during the next decade.
"As the third largest mining jurisdiction in the country, B.C. will be a major contributor to the overall strength of the mining industry, which we expect to remain steady for years to come," MAC CEO Pierre Gratton said in a speech in Kamloops on May 10.
"That will bring numerous economic benefits and opportunities to British Columbians, while at the same time, help Canada maintain its status as a global mining superpower."
The mineral exploration, development and mining industry generated $8.9 billion in economic activity in B.C. in 2010, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.
The industry generated more than 21,000 direct jobs, 8,200 of which were at operating mines across the province and paid average salaries of more than $100,000 annually.
"The mineral exploration, development and mining industries have been big economic contributors to the Kamloops region for many decades, and we expect that trend to continue for many more," said Mining Association of British Columbia CEO Karina Briño, who was in Kamloops with Gratton, celebrating B.C. Mining Week.
Kamloops is the largest copper-producing area in Canada and is near Teck Resources Ltd.'s Highland Valley Copper mine.
