On September 18th, Bloomberg reported that the Osoyoos Indian Band in Canada is threatening political and legal action against Teck Resources’ planned merger with Anglo American unless meaningful consultation occurs over expansion plans at Teck’s zinc-and-lead smelter in Trail, British Columbia.

Chief Clarence Louie criticized the companies for proposing C$750 million in investments at the facility—including copper processing and strategic metals output—without consulting First Nations, calling it “unconscionable.” The band cites the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, legally adopted by BC and Canada, which requires free, prior and informed consent for measures impacting Indigenous lands.

The Canadian government could still block the $50 billion merger under the Investment Canada Act. While Teck and Anglo have pledged C$4.5 billion in Canadian investments, Industry Minister Melanie Joly said they must demonstrate greater economic benefit. The Osoyoos band said it is prepared to pursue court action if the deal proceeds without proper consultation.