This is the time of year that awards are handed out, notably the Golden Globes and Oscars in the entertainment industry. From THE FRASER INSTITUTE come ratings of the most mining-investment-friendly jurisdictions around the world. Let's award the "Frasers" to the winners where there are riches to be had by turning a promising prospect into a profitable producer.
The Fraser Institute surveyed 159 companies responsible for a combined total of US$642.4 million in international exploration in 2002. The companies rated the policy and mineral attractiveness of jurisdictions around the world. The validity of the ratings is high because they reflect the experiences of companies active around the world.
The 'Fraser' for the Best Country goes to Chile. It scored 92 out of 100 possible points on the Investment Attractiveness Index. It also topped the Mineral Potential Index with a 96 rating and ranked highly on the Policy Potential Index with 85.
The 'Fraser' for the Best Place in North America goes to Nevada, with an overall score of 91. This state topped the Policy Potential index with 89 and scored well on the Mineral Potential Index at 92.
The 'Fraser' for the Best Canadian Province goes to Quebec, which had a combined score of 85. On the Mineral Potential Index it garnered 89, and on the Policy Potential Index it rated 80. Quebec ranked fourth overall behind Chile, Nevada and Western Australia.
There are no awards for them, but rounding out the top 10 are Brazil and Peru (tied with 82), Ontario (81), Australia's Northern Territory (76), Russia (74), and Mexico (72).
Limping along at the bottom of the ratings are Washington State (11), California (12), Wisconsin (16), South Dakota (23), and Colorado (24).
The rankings of all the countries examined can be read at http://files.newswire.ca/22/fraserUR1.doc or buy the entire report at www.fraserinstitute.ca. While you are at the Fraser Institute's website, you might want to purchase an Adam Smith tie or scarf.
Comments