Rio2 Limited has restarted exploration activities on a dormant tungsten project in Canada, marking a strategic expansion into critical minerals.

The move comes as the company continues to develop its multi-asset copper and gold production base in South America, but seeks to capitalize on rising global demand for essential industrial metals.

The Canadian asset, which has historical exploration results, is being re-evaluated to determine its potential contribution to Rio2’s broader resource portfolio.

The decision to revive the project reflects a broader trend among mining firms to secure supply chains for critical minerals, which are increasingly vital for energy transition technologies and defense applications.

Tungsten, known for its hardness and high melting point, is essential in manufacturing alloys, electronics, and military equipment.

By adding this asset to its roster, Rio2 is positioning itself to benefit from the structural demand shift toward these materials, even as its primary growth engine remains in the Americas.