On January 6, 2025, the U.S. Forest Service granted the final permit for the Stibnite Mine, operated by Perpetua Resources, marking the end of a permitting process that has spanned over a decade. This mine is projected to supply 35% of the United States' antimony needs by 2028, alongside producing gold. Originally opened in 1927, the mine has remained inactive since 1996. The permitting effort, which cost an estimated $1.3 billion in 2020, received significant support from the military, contributing $60 million to facilitate the process.
The approval of the Stibnite Mine comes at a critical time, as rising trade tensions with China have led to restrictions on antimony exports, heightening the importance of domestic production. Perpetua Resources has also announced a non-binding agreement with Sunshine Silver Mining to handle the domestic processing of antimony, further solidifying the project's role in the U.S. supply chain.
However, the project has faced opposition from Idaho's Nez Perce Tribe, who have raised concerns about the potential impact on local salmon populations. Despite these challenges, the Stibnite Mine is expected to create over 550 jobs and generate more than $1 billion in investment, contributing to the local economy and the broader U.S. mineral supply landscape.
This development aligns with recent advancements in other mineral projects in Idaho, such as Electra Battery Materials Corporation's exploration permit for copper and cobalt, which highlights the growing focus on securing critical minerals domestically. The emphasis on these resources is becoming increasingly vital as industries seek to reduce reliance on foreign imports and bolster national security. [0b949514] [e39dd915] [27820151] [ea7c43a8] [b80d49bc] [4c4a4f9e] [007e733b] [70b9301e] [a3fd3e91] [8914e666]