Glencore's Raglan Mine has announced the inauguration of Anuri Mine in Quebec, Canada.

The new venture, part of the Sivumut Project, is set to extend the life of the Raglan Mine's operations by at least two decades.

Anuri Mine, which has been in the pipeline for more than ten years, represents one of the most substantial investments in Quebec's mining industry in the past decade.

Raglan Mine, working in the nickel mining domain since 1997, considers the Anuri mine an important step towards the pursuit of its activities in partnership with Inuit communities.

Glencore is one of the world's largest diversified natural resource companies, which operates on the northern edge of Quebec, in Nunavik.

Its property extends to almost 70km from east to west and consists of high-grade deposits such as nickel and copper.

Raglan Mine vice-president Pierre Barette said: “We expect that our mining activities, initially forecast to last 25 years, will be significantly extended thanks to the Anuri mine. This is a huge success for our 1,400 employees, our Inuit partners and our business partners.”

Glencore projects, geology and exploration director Jean-François Verret said: “This project was a challenge on every level, particularly given the pandemic, the Arctic climate and numerous logistical challenges.

“Nevertheless, we completed the Sivumut project ahead of schedule, under budget and with everyone's safety at the heart of every step. We achieved this through outstanding collaboration within our team and with our partners.”

Earlier this month, Glencore said that it plans to divest its 49% stake and halt operations at the Koniambo Nickel SAS joint venture in New Caledonia.

The nickel mine and processing facility will now be in a “state of care and maintenance”.

New Caledonia remains a part of French territory, and the French Government attempted to save the country’s ailing nickel industry, with metal prices continuing to slide amid market surpluses.