British Columbia’s mining sector had another prosperous year, according to PwC's annual report on mining in British Columbia. The sector remained stable despite facing global market uncertainty, lower commodity prices, and higher costs for labour and mining inputs such as production materials, fuel, and transportation.

Canada’s mining industry is global, with Canadian listed firms active in exploration and development projects around the world. Practices that are seen as bribery in Canada may be quite common in emerging economies where miners operate, such as requests from public officials for under-the-table payments to help obtain permits, licenses, and other permissions. Changes to legislation to combat corruption and bribery abroad enacted by the UK, the USA, and Canada are bringing changes for the mining industry.

Slower global growth and declining demand from China has led to a drop in copper prices in recent months. China currently accounts for more than 40% of world demand, and its demand has boomed as its rural population has moved to cities needing copper for wiring and pipes.