According to World Nuclear Association data, Saskatchewan’s nearly $1 billion-a-year uranium industry made Canada the world’s second largest producer last year.
Kazakhstan was first both last year and in 2021.
Canada ranked third in 2021 with Namibia taking second place. A news release from the province notes that Saskatchewan’s uranium production was impacted by the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, but the Cigar Lake mine and McClean Lake mill operated throughout last year, which meant increased production.
The McArthur River mine and Key Lake mill reopened last year, contributing to increased production in the later months of the year.
Energy and Resources Minister, Jim Reiter says, “Saskatchewan’s uranium is key as the world looks to transition to sustainable power generation and source minerals from secure, democratic regions.”