PolyMet Mining Corp.: Form 20-F - Filed by newsfilecorp.com

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

[   ] REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

[X]  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012

OR

[   ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

[   ] SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file number 0-18701

POLYMET MINING CORP.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

British Columbia, Canada
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Suite 390 – 3600 Lysander Lane, Richmond, British Columbia V7B 1C3
(Address of principal executive offices)

Douglas Newby
c/o Poly Met Mining Inc.
444 Cedar Street, Suite 2060
St Paul, Minnesota 55101
Tel: 651-389-4105
Fax: 651- 846-5849
E-mail: dnewby@polymetmining.com
(Name, telephone, e-mail and/or facsimile number and address of Company contact person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Common Shares, without par value
(Title of Class)

i


Name of each exchange on which registered

NYSE Amex
Toronto Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report. 174,738,124

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
[   ] Yes     [X]  No

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 of 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
[   ] Yes     [X]  No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past ninety days.
[X]  Yes     [   ] No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Date File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes [   ]     No [   ]

As a foreign private issuer that prepares its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), the Registrant is required to submit to the SEC and post on its corporate website Interactive Data Files (as defined by Item 11 of Regulation S-T) pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T.

However, it is the view of the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance and Office of the Chief Accountant that the Registrant is not required to submit to the SEC and post on its corporate website Interactive Data Files until the SEC specifies on its website an IFRS taxonomy for use by foreign private issuers in preparing their Interactive Data Files.

As of the submission date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F, the SEC has not specified an IFRS taxonomy for the Registrant to use in preparing its Interactive Data Files.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one)

Large accelerated filer [   ] Accelerated filer [X]  Non-accelerated filer [   ]

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP [   ] International Financial Reporting Standards as issued Other [   ]
  by the International Accounting Standards Board [X]    


If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Item 17 [   ]     Item 18 [   ]

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act)
[   ] Yes     [X]  No


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I    
     
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORS 1
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE 1
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION 2
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY 11
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS 29
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES 40
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 45
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION 48
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING 50
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 51
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK 59
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES 60
     
Part II    
     
ITEM 13. DEFAULT, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES 60
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHT OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS 60
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 60
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT 62
ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS 62
ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES 62
ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES 63
ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS 63
ITEM 16F. CHANGES IN REGISTRANTS CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT 63
ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 63
ITEM 16H. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE 63
     
Part III    
     
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 64
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 64
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS 65

Financial Statements:

Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements F-1
Independent Auditor's Report F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheet F-5
Consolidated Statements of Loss and  Comprehensive Loss F-6
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity F-7
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows F-8
Notes to Consolidates Financial Statements F-9

SIGNATURES 68
CERTIFICATIONS 69


This Annual Report on Form 20-F (this “Annual Report”) contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). These statements appear in a number of different places in this Annual Report and can be identified by words such as "expects", “anticipates”, "believes", "intends", "estimates", “potential”, “possible”, "projects", "plans", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results “will”, “may”, “could”, or “should” occur or be achieved or their negatives or other comparable words. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The statements, including the statements contained in Item 3D “Risk Factors”, Item 4B “Business Overview”, Item 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and Item 11 “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”, are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ significantly. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding the outlook for our future operations, plans and timing for our exploration and development programs, statements about future market conditions, supply and demand conditions, forecasts of future costs and expenditures, the outcome of legal proceedings, and other expectations, intentions and plans that are not historical fact. Our actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements due to risks facing us or due to actual facts differing from the assumptions underlying our predictions. Some of these risks and assumptions include:

All forward-looking statements included in this Annual Report are based on information available to us on the date of this Annual Report. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update publicly or otherwise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except to the extent required by law, rule or regulation. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. You should carefully review the cautionary statements and risk factors contained in this and other documents that we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

PART I

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORS

Not required.

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not required.

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ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

A.           Selected Financial Data

The following selected financial information, as of and for the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011 has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, which are included elsewhere in this Annual Report. The selected financial data as of and for the years ended January 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this Annual Report. Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), effective with our transition to IFRS on February 1, 2010. Previously, our consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“CGAAP”). Material measurement differences between CGAAP and accounting principles in the United States applicable to us were described in our previous consolidated financial statements.

The following table summarizes certain selected financial information as at and for our fiscal years ended January 31, 2012, 2011, and opening balance sheet as at February 1, 2010 reported under IFRS. The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto and other information included elsewhere in the Annual Report.

Selected Financial Data – IFRS
($'000s, except loss per share and weighted average shares)

    Year     Year     Opening  
    Ended     Ended     Balance  
    1/31/12     1/31/11     Sheet  
                2/1/10  
Revenue $  –   $  –        
Income (loss) from Operations $  –   $  –        
Net Loss $  (3,045 ) $  (6,662 )      
Loss Per Share $  (0.02 ) $  (0.04 )      
Diluted Net Loss Per Share $  (0.02 ) $  (0.04 )      
Dividends Per Share $  –   $  –        
Weighted Average Shares   160,358,498     149,444,955        
Working Capital $  16,375   $  4,199   $  16,313  
Total Assets $  189,571   $  156,736   $  149,692  
Long-Term and Convertible $  32,690   $  29,406   $  33,395  
Debt                  
                   
Shareholders’ Equity $  132,366   $  102,417   $  97,645  
                   
Share Capital including Share Capital Premium $ 170,566   $ 143,248   $  132,066  

The following table summarizes certain selected financial information as at and for our fiscal years ended January 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 as previously reported under CGAAP. The 2010 income statement information is presented in accordance with CGAAP and may not be appropriate as a comparative basis. The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto and other information included elsewhere in the Annual Report.

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Selected Financial Data – CGAAP
($'000s, except loss per share and weighted average shares)

    Year     Year     Year  
    Ended     Ended     Ended  
    1/31/10     1/31/09     1/31/08  
Revenue $  –   $  –   $  –  
Income (loss) from Operations $  –   $  –   $  –  
Net Loss $  (9,023 ) $  (5,523 ) $  (4,124 )
Loss Per Share $  (0.06 ) $  (0.04 ) $  (0.03 )
Diluted Net Loss Per Share $  (0.06 ) $  (0.04 ) $  (0.03 )
Dividends Per Share $  –   $  –   $  –  
Weighted Average Shares   139,456,827     137,187,927     133,697,572  
Working Capital $  16,313   $  3,582   $  16,558  
Total Assets $ 139,648   $  101,599   $  88,485  
Long-Term and Convertible Debt $ 33,782   $  24,006   $  10,834  
                   
Shareholders’ Equity $ 97,567   $  70,335   $  68,437  
                   
Share Capital $  132,066   $ 105,312   $  104,615  

Unless otherwise indicated, all monetary amounts in this Annual Report are expressed in United States dollars, our reporting currency.

B.           Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not Applicable

C.           Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not Applicable

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D.           Risk Factors

Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report and other documents we file with the SEC.

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS

We may experience delays, higher than expected costs, difficulties in obtaining environmental permits and other obstacles when implementing our capital expenditure projects.

We are investing heavily in various facets of our NorthMet Project, which comprises the NorthMet copper-nickel-precious metals ore body and the Erie Plant, a large processing facility located approximately six miles from the ore body in the established mining district of the Mesabi Range in northeastern Minnesota, USA (the "NorthMet Project"). The NorthMet Project is subject to a number of risks that may make it less successful than anticipated, including:

Our future activities could be subject to environmental laws and regulations which may have a materially adverse effect on our future operations, in which case our operations could be suspended or terminated.

We are subject to a variety of federal, provincial, state and local statutes, rules and regulations designed to, among other things:

We are required to obtain various governmental permits to conduct exploration, development, construction and mining activities at our properties. Obtaining the necessary governmental permits is often a complex and time-consuming process involving numerous U.S. or Canadian federal, provincial, state, and local agencies. The duration and success of each permitting effort is contingent upon many variables not within our control. In the context of obtaining permits or approvals, we must comply with known standards, existing laws, and regulations that may entail greater or lesser costs and delays depending on the nature of the activity to be permitted and the interpretation of the laws and regulations implemented by the permitting authority. The failure to obtain certain permits or the adoption of more stringent permitting requirements could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations, and properties and we may be unable to proceed with our exploration and development programs.

Federal legislation and implementing regulations adopted and administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA"), Army Corp of Engineers ("USACE"), Forest Service ("USFS"), Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, Mine Safety and Health Administration, and other federal agencies, and legislation such as the Federal Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, and Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, have a direct bearing on U.S. exploration, development and mining operations. Due to the uncertainties inherent in the permitting process, we cannot be certain that we will be able to obtain required approvals for proposed activities at any of our properties in a timely manner, or that our proposed activities will be allowed at all.

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Compliance with statutory environmental quality requirements described above may require significant capital outlays, significantly affect our earning power, or cause material changes in our intended activities. Environmental standards imposed by federal, state, or local governments may be changed or become more stringent in the future, which could materially and adversely affect our proposed activities.

Because the price of metals fluctuate, if the prices of metals in our ore body decrease below a specified level, it may no longer be profitable to develop our NorthMet Project for those metals and we will cease operations.

Prices of metals are determined by some of the following factors:

The aggregate effect of these factors on metals prices is impossible for us to predict. In addition, the prices of metals are sometimes subject to rapid short-term and/or prolonged changes because of speculative activities. The current demand for and supply of various metals affect the prices of copper, nickel, cobalt, platinum, palladium and gold, but not necessarily in the same manner as current supply and demand affect the prices of other commodities. The supply of these metals primarily consists of new production from mining. If the prices of copper, nickel, cobalt, platinum, palladium and gold are, for a substantial period, below our foreseeable costs of production, we could cease operations.

We are dependent on our key personnel.

Our success depends on key members of our management. The loss of the services of one or more of such key management personnel could have a material adverse effect on us. Our ability to manage exploration and development activities, and hence our success, will depend in large part on the efforts of these individuals. We face intense competition for qualified personnel, and we cannot be certain that we will be able to attract and retain such personnel.

We may not be able to raise the funds necessary to develop our mineral properties. If we are unable to raise such additional funds, we will have to suspend or cease operations.

We will need to seek additional financing to complete development and construction of our NorthMet Project. Sources of such external financing include future equity offerings, advance payments by potential customers to secure long-term supply contracts, grants and low-cost debt from certain state financial institutions, and commercial debt secured by our NorthMet Project. If we cannot raise the money necessary to continue to explore and develop our property, we will have to suspend or cease operations.

Our metals exploration and development efforts are highly speculative in nature and may be unsuccessful.

As a development stage company, our work is speculative and involves unique and greater risks than are generally associated with operating businesses.

The development of mineral deposits involves uncertainties, which careful evaluation, experience, and knowledge cannot eliminate. Few properties explored are ultimately developed into producing mines. It is impossible to ensure that the current development program we have planned will result in a profitable commercial mining operation. Significant capital investment is required to achieve commercial production from successful exploration efforts.

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We are subject to all the risks inherent to the mining industry, which may have an adverse affect on our business operations.

We are subject to all of the risks inherent in the mining industry, including:

As a result of all of these factors, we may run out of money, in which case we will have to suspend or cease operations.

Our actual mineral reserves and mineral resources may not conform to our established estimates.

The figures for mineral reserves and mineral resources stated in this Annual Report are estimates and no assurances can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. Market fluctuations and the prices of metals may render reserves and mineral resources uneconomic. Moreover, short-term operating factors relating to the mineral deposits, such as the need for the orderly development of the deposits or the processing of new or different grades of ore, may cause a mining operation to be unprofitable in any particular accounting period.

There is no assurance that any of our mineral resources, not currently classified as mineral reserves, will ever be classified as mineral reserves under the disclosure standards of the SEC.

Item 4.D of this Annual Report discusses our mineral resources in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”). Resources are classified as “measured resources”, “indicated resources” and “inferred resources” under NI 43-101. However, U.S. investors are cautioned that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") does not recognize these resource classifications. There is no assurance that any of our mineral resources, not currently classified as mineral reserves, will be converted into mineral reserves under the disclosure standards of the SEC.

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We have had no production history and we do not know if we will generate revenues in the future.

While we were incorporated in 1981, we have no history of producing minerals. We have not developed or operated any mines, and we have no operating history upon which an evaluation of our future success or failure can be made. We currently have no mining operations of any kind. Our ability to achieve and maintain profitable mining operations is dependent upon a number of factors, including our ability to successfully build and operate mines, processing plants and related infrastructure ourselves.

We may not successfully establish mining operations or profitably produce metals at any of our properties. As such, we do not know if we will ever generate revenues or profits.

We have a history of losses, which we expect will continue for the future. If we do not begin to generate revenues or find alternate sources of capital, we may either have to suspend or cease operations.

As a development stage company with no holdings in any producing mines, we continue to incur losses and expect to incur losses in the future. As of January 31, 2012, we had an accumulated deficit of $81.8 million. We may not be able to achieve or sustain profitability in the future. If we do not begin to generate revenues or find alternate sources of capital, we may either have to suspend or cease operations.

We may not have adequate or any insurance coverage for some business risks that could lead to economically harmful consequences to us.

Our businesses are generally subject to a number of risks and hazards, including:

These occurrences could result in damage to, or destruction of, mineral properties, production facilities, transportation facilities, or equipment. They could also result in personal injury or death, environmental damage, waste of resources or intermediate products, delays or interruption in mining, production or transportation activities, monetary losses and possible legal liability. The insurance we maintain against risks that are typical in our business may not provide adequate coverage. Insurance against some risks (including liabilities for environmental pollution or certain hazards or interruption of certain business activities) may not be available at a reasonable cost or at all. As a result, accidents or other negative developments involving our mining, production or transportation facilities could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

The mining industry is an intensely competitive industry, and we may have difficulty effectively competing with other mining companies in the future.

We face intense competition from other mining and producing companies. In recent years, the mining industry has experienced significant consolidation among some of our competitors, as a result these companies may be more diversified than us. We cannot assure you that the result of current or further consolidation in the industry will not adversely affect us.

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In addition, because mines have limited lives, we must periodically seek to replace and expand our reserves by acquiring new properties. Significant competition exists to acquire properties producing, or capable of producing, copper, nickel and other metals.

If we are unable to successfully manage these risks, our growth prospects and profitability may suffer.

We may be subject to risks relating to the global economy.

Recent market events and conditions, including disruptions in the international credit markets and other financial systems and the deterioration of global economic conditions could impede our access to capital or increase the cost of capital. These unprecedented disruptions in the current credit and financial markets have had a significant material adverse impact on a number of financial institutions and have limited access to capital and credit for many companies. These disruptions could, among other things, make it more difficult for us to obtain, or increase our cost of obtaining capital and financing for our operations. Our access to additional capital may not be available on terms acceptable to us or at all.

As a result of current global financial conditions, numerous financial institutions have gone into bankruptcy or have been rescued by government authorities. As such, we are subject to the risk of loss of our deposits with financial institutions that hold our cash.

RISKS RELATED TO THE OWNERSHIP OF OUR SHARES

We may experience volatility in our share price.

Our common shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange and on the NYSE Amex. Our shareholders may be unable to sell significant quantities of our common shares into the public trading markets without a significant reduction in the price of our shares, if at all. The market price of our common shares may be affected significantly by factors such as changes in our operating results, the availability of funds, fluctuations in the price of metals, the interest of investors, traders and others in development stage public companies such as us and general market conditions. In recent years the securities markets have experienced a high level of price and volume volatility, and the market price of securities of many companies, particularly small capitalization development companies similar to us, have experienced wide fluctuations, which have not necessarily been related to the operating performances, underlying asset values, or the future prospects of such companies. There can be no assurance that future fluctuations in the price of our shares will not occur.

A large number of shares will be eligible for future sale and may depress our share price.

Our shares that are eligible for future sale may have an adverse effect on the price of our common shares. As of January 31, 2012 there were 174,738,124 of our common shares outstanding. The average trading volume for the three months prior to January 31, 2012 was approximately 51,000 shares per day on the Toronto Stock Exchange and 232,000 shares per day on the NYSE Amex. Sales of substantial amounts of our common shares, or a perception that such sales could occur, and the existence of options or warrants to purchase common shares and debt convertible into common shares at prices that may be below the then current market price of our common shares, could adversely affect the market price of our common shares and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of our equity securities.

Your ownership interest, voting power and the market price of our common shares may decrease because we have issued, and may continue to issue, a substantial number of securities convertible or exercisable into our common shares.

We have issued common shares, options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, convertible debt and warrants to purchase our common shares to satisfy our obligations and fund our operations (see Item 5.A). Since we currently do not have a source of revenue, we will likely issue additional common shares, options, warrants or other securities exercisable for or convertible into our common shares to raise money for our continued operations or as non-cash incentives to our own and our subsidiaries' directors, officers, and key employees. If conversions of warrants and/or options into common shares or additional sales of equity occur, your ownership interest and voting power in us will be diluted and the market price of our common shares may decrease.

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Under our 2007 Omnibus Share Compensation Plan, as amended and restated (the “Plan”), the aggregate number of our common shares that may be issuable pursuant to the Plan may not at any time exceed the greater of (i) 10% of our issued and outstanding common shares and (ii)18,592,888 common shares, representing 13.62% of our outstanding common shares at the time of the approval of the Plan, of which 3,967,500 common shares are reserved for issuance as awards other than options under our bonus share incentive plan (the "Bonus Plan") which we established for our directors and key employees. As of January 31, 2012 the aggregate number of common shares issuable pursuant to the Plan was 14,625,388 shares.

Upon any issuances or exercise of awards granted pursuant to the Plan being issued, the ownership interests and voting power of existing shareholders may be further diluted.

We have a Shareholders Rights Plan Agreement and certain employment and management contracts that contain provisions designed to discourage a change of control.

A Shareholders Rights Plan between us and our shareholders effective as of June 27, 2007, modified on June 17, 2008 and reapproved by shareholders on July 13, 2011 and certain employment and management agreements contain provisions that could discourage an acquisition or change of control without our board of directors’ approval. Under the Shareholders’ Rights Plan, if a shareholder individually or in concert with other shareholders acquires 20% or more of our outstanding common shares without complying with the Shareholders’ Rights Plan or without the approval of our board of directors, all holders of record will have a right to receive one common share for each common share owned. We have also entered into agreements with certain key employees and officers that contain severance provisions in the event of a take-over bid. The Shareholders’ Rights Plan and the preceding agreements may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire control of us, even if such a change of control is more beneficial to shareholders.

Because we believe that we will be classified as a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”), U.S. holders of our common shares may be subject to United States federal income tax consequences that are worse than those that would apply if we were not a PFIC.

Because we believe that we will be classified as a passive foreign investment company, U.S. holders of our common shares may be subject to United States federal income tax consequences that are worse than those that would apply if we were not a PFIC, such as ordinary income treatment plus a charge in lieu of interest upon a sale or disposition of our common shares even if the shares were held as a capital asset. See “Certain United States Federal Income Tax Consequences” at Item 10(E).

Absence of Dividends

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common shares and do not anticipate doing so in the foreseeable future. There can be no assurance that our board of directors will ever declare cash dividends, which action is exclusively within its discretion. Investors cannot expect to receive a dividend on our common shares in the foreseeable future, if at all.

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Increased Costs and Compliance Risks as a Result of Being a Public Company

Legal, accounting and other expenses associated with public company reporting requirements have increased significantly in the past few years. We anticipate that general and administrative costs associated with regulatory compliance will continue to increase as a result of governance requirements, including requirements under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as well as new rules implemented by the SEC, Canadian Securities Administrators and the TSX. We expect these rules and regulations to significantly increase our legal and financial compliance costs and to make some activities more time consuming and costly. There can be no assurance that we will continue to effectively meet all of the requirements of these regulations, including Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 and Canadian National Instrument 52-109 – Certification of Disclosure in Issuer’s Annual and Interim Filings (“NI 52-109”). Any failure to effectively implement new or improved internal controls, or to resolve difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm our operating results, cause us to fail to meet reporting obligations or result in management being required to give a qualified assessment of our internal controls over financial reporting or our independent registered public accounting firm providing an adverse opinion regarding management’s assessment. Any such result could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a material adverse effect on our share price. We also expect these rules and regulations may make it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and it may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified individuals to serve on our board of directors or as executive officers. If we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal controls, our ability to provide accurate financial statements and comply with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and/or NI 52-109 could be impaired, which could cause our share price to decrease.

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ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

A.           History and Development of the Company

PolyMet Mining Corp. was incorporated under the British Columbia Companies Act and continued under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) in British Columbia, Canada on March 4, 1981, under the name Fleck Resources Ltd., which we changed to PolyMet Mining Corp. on June 10, 1998.

Our principal executive office is situated at 390 – 3600 Lysander Lane, Richmond, B.C V7B 1C3, Canada. Our phone number is (604) 248-0939. Our registered and records office is located at our legal counsel’s offices situated at 2500 – 700 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, B.C. V7Y 1B3, Canada. Our operational headquarters are located at P.O. Box 475, 6500 County Road 666, Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota 55750-0475, United States.

We are a reporting issuer in the following Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. Our common shares have been listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) since February 1, 2007 and on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) from April 13, 1984 to January 31, 2007 under the symbol "POM" and since June 26, 2006, our common shares have been listed on the NYSE Amex under the symbol “PLM”.

Our registrar and transfer agent is Computershare Investor Services Inc. of 9th Floor, 100 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5J 2Y1, Canada.

During the years ended January 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010 we made net investments of $16.137 million, $16.519 million, and $17.754 million, respectively to acquire property, advance the environmental review, and perform work following completion of the Definitive Feasibility Study (“DFS”) on our NorthMet Project.

All of these expenses were incurred at our NorthMet Project and were funded from the proceeds of equity and convertible debt financings. Since completion of the DFS in September 2006, these expenditures and the Erie Plant acquisition have been capitalized.

B.           Business Overview

We are a development stage company engaged in the exploration and development of natural resource properties. Currently our sole mineral property is the NorthMet Project.

In the years ended January 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, we conducted exploration, development and acquisition activities only and did not conduct any operations that generated revenues. Thus, we rely principally on equity or debt convertible into equity financings to fund our projects and expenditures.

Since 2003, we have focused on commencing commercial production on our NorthMet Project. We have focused our efforts on four main areas:

Acquisition of the Erie Plant. The Erie Plant is a large processing facility and associated infrastructure located approximately six miles west of our NorthMet ore body. On November 15, 2005 and December 20, 2006 we entered into a total of three Contracts for Deed with Cliffs Erie LLC, a subsidiary of Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (formerly Cleveland Cliffs, Inc.) (“Cliffs”), under which we now own a 100,000 ton-per-day crushing and milling facility, a railroad and railroad access rights connecting the Erie Plant to the NorthMet ore body, tailings facilities, 120 railcars, locomotive fueling and maintenance facilities, water rights and pipelines, large administrative offices on site and approximately 6,000 acres to the east and west of and contiguous to the existing tailing facilities.

Environmental and permitting. To commence commercial production at our NorthMet Project, various regulatory approvals are needed. In October 2005, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ("MDNR") published its Environmental Assessment Worksheet Decision Document establishing the MDNR as the lead state agency and the USACE as the lead federal agency (together the “Lead Agencies”) for preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (“EIS”) for our NorthMet Project.

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In November 2009, the Lead Agencies published the PolyMet Draft EIS, which marked the start of a period for public review and comment that ended on February 3, 2010. During this period, the Lead Agencies held two public meetings and received more than 3,700 submissions containing approximately 22,000 separate comments, including an extensive comment letter from the EPA in its role as reviewer of projects that could impact the environment.

On June 25, 2010 the Lead Agencies announced that they intended to complete the EIS process by preparing a SDEIS that incorporates a proposed land exchange with the USFS Superior National Forest and expands government agency cooperation. The USFS joined the USACE as a federal co-lead agency through the completion of the EIS process. In addition, the EPA has joined the effort as a cooperating agency. The MDNR remains the state co-lead agency.

On October 13, 2010 the USACE and the USFS published a Notice of Intent to complete the SDEIS, which will:

 
  •  
  • Supplement and supersede the Draft EIS and respond to concerns identified by the US EPA and other comments on the Draft EIS, and
     
  •  
  • Incorporate potential effects from the proposed land exchange between the USFS Superior National Forest and us.

    Once the SDEIS is completed, it will be made available for public review prior to preparation of the Final EIS. Completion of the Final EIS and a subsequent Adequacy Decision by the MDNR and Record of Decision by the federal agencies are necessary before the land exchange can occur and various permits required to construct and operate the NorthMet Project can be issued.

    Prior to receipt of these permits, we intend to secure production debt financing that would be available upon receipt of key permits, with construction slated to start upon availability of construction finance.

    Engineering and feasibility. We retained Bateman Engineering Pty. of Brisbane, Australia (“Bateman”) as the coordinating consultant to prepare a DFS. In September 2006 we reported that the DFS confirmed the economic and technical viability of our NorthMet Project.

    Bateman was responsible for completing the process design and detail engineering and cost estimates for the plant and infrastructure. This work was supported by other firms that provided geo-statistical reviews of the ore body, mine planning and scheduling of ore and waste, and assessment of the market for the metals and intermediate products planned to be produced.

    Since September 2006 we have completed additional drilling and expanded the reserves. In May 2008 we completed an internal update of the DFS (the “DFS Update”) which contemplates an initial stage in which we would sell concentrate during completion of construction and commissioning of the hydrometallurgical plant that was contemplated in the DFS. This approach has the advantage of staging capital costs so that the hydrometallurgical plant can be funded in part from cash flow from sales of concentrate, and it reduces our reliance on delivery of long lead-time equipment before we start commercial production.

    In February 2011 we announced that we plan to build the NorthMet Project in two phases, the first to produce and market concentrates containing copper, nickel, cobalt and precious metals, and the second to process the nickel concentrate through a single autoclave, resulting in production and sale of high grade copper concentrate, value added nickel-cobalt hydroxide, and precious metals precipitate products.

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    Financing and corporate development. Since 2003 we have raised approximately $145 million from equity private placement financings and the exercise of warrants issued as part of those financings. We have also issued $25 million initial principal debentures and have a loan of $4 million secured by land acquired with proceeds from the loan.

    In October 2008, we entered into a strategic partnership with Glencore AG (“Glencore”) whereby Glencore agreed (i) to purchase up to $50 million of our floating rate secured debentures, of which $25 million has been issued, which are exchangeable into our common shares, and (ii) to purchase all of our production of concentrates, metal, or intermediate products on market terms at the time of delivery, for at least the first five years of production. We also appointed Stephen Rowland, a senior executive at Glencore, to our Board of Directors, and a senior technical representative of Glencore to join our Technical Steering Committee.

    $7.5 million of the debentures were issued in October 2008, $7.5 million were issued in December 2008, $5.0 million were issued in June 2009, and $5 million were issued in August 2009. The final $25 million debentures were not issued and any commitments in connection with the final $25 million were cancelled in November 2010. We also issued to Glencore warrants to purchase 6.25 million of our common shares at any time prior to September 30, 2011 at $5.00 per share if exercised before the NorthMet Project entered into commercial production.

    In November 2009, we entered into an agreement with Glencore whereby, in two installments, Glencore purchased $25 million of our common shares at $2.65 per share. The first installment of $10 million closed on November 23, 2009 and the second installment of $15 million closed on January 26, 2011. We also decreased the exercise price of the warrants issued in October 2008 to $3.00 per share.

    In November 2010, we entered into a further agreement with Glencore whereby:

     
  •  
  • Glencore agreed to purchase 15 million of our common shares at $2.00 per share in three tranches over the subsequent two years.
     
  •  
  • Glencore agreed to extend the maturity date of the $25 million (initial principal) debentures issued to Glencore under the 2008 financing to September 30, 2012.
     
  •  
  • We agreed to cancel Glencore's commitment to purchase and our commitment to issue $25 million debentures that had not been issued under the October 2008 agreement and to cancel the warrants issued as part of the October 2008 agreement and amended in the November 2009 agreement.
     
  •  
  • We issued warrants to purchase 3 million of our common shares at $2.00 per share at any time until December 31, 2015.

    On January 17, 2011 and July 15, 2011 Glencore funded the first and second $10 million tranches of the November 2010 financing agreement and we issued a total of 10 million of our common shares to Glencore. The final $10 million will be funded and we will issue an additional 5 million common shares to Glencore no later than October 15, 2012.

    In December 2011, we entered into a further agreement with Glencore whereby:

     
  •  
  • Glencore agreed to purchase 13.333 million common shares at $1.50 per share.
     
  •  
  • We issued warrants to purchase 2.6 million of our common shares at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day volume weighted average price ("VWAP") of our common shares is equal to or greater than 150% of the exercise price and we provide notice to Glencore that we have received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore.
     
  •  
  • Glencore agreed to extend the maturity date of the $25 million initial principal debentures issued to Glencore under the October 2008 transaction to the earlier of i) PolyMet giving Glencore 10 days notice that PolyMet has received permits necessary to start construction of the NorthMet project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore, and ii) September 30, 2014.
     
  •  
  • We amended the terms of the warrants issued in November 2010 to decrease the exercise price from $2.00 per share to $1.50 per share and to provide for mandatory exercise of the warrants if the 20-day VWAP of our shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and we provide notice to Glencore that we have received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore.

    - 13 -


    On June 18, 2011 we closed a loan from the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (“IRRRB”), an economic development agency with no regulatory oversight for mine permitting activities. The loan is secured by land acquired with the proceeds of the loan, carries a fixed interest rate of 5% per annum, compounded annually if not paid, and is repayable on the earlier of June 30, 2016 or the date which the related land is exchanged with the USFS. PolyMet issued warrants giving the IRRRB the right to purchase up to 400,000 shares of our common shares at $2.50 per share at any time until the earlier of June 30, 2016 and one year after permits are received.

    C.           Organizational Structure

    Poly Met Mining, Inc., incorporated in Minnesota, USA on February 16, 1989, is our only material, wholly owned operating subsidiary.

    - 14 -


    D.           Property, Plant and Equipment

    Property - NorthMet Project, Minnesota, USA

    Our primary mineral property is the NorthMet Project, which comprises the NorthMet copper-nickel-precious metals ore body and the nearby Erie Plant facilities.

    In the years ended January 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, we conducted exploration, development and acquisition activities only and did not conduct any operations.

    (a)           History

    The NorthMet ore body is located immediately south of the eastern end of the historic Mesabi Iron Range in northeastern Minnesota. Mining in the Iron Range dates back to the 1880’s when high grade iron ore known as hematite was first mined commercially. During the 1940’s and 1950’s, with reserves of hematite dwindling, the iron industry began to focus on taconite, a lower-grade iron ore. Eight large crushing, grinding, milling and pelletizing facilities were built by various iron and steel companies to process the taconite, including the Erie Plant that we acquired in November 2005.

    In the 1940s, copper and nickel were discovered nearby, following which, in the 1960s, United States Steel Corporation (“US Steel”) drilled what is now our NorthMet ore body. US Steel investigated the deposit as a high-grade, underground copper-nickel resource, but considered it to be uneconomic based on its inability to produce separate, clean nickel and copper concentrates with the metallurgical processes available at that time. In addition, prior to the development of the autocatalyst market in the 1970s, there was little market for platinum group metals (PGMs) and there was no economic and reliable method to assay for low grades of these metals.

    In 1987, the Minnesota Natural Resources Research Institute (“NRRI”) published data suggesting the possibility of a large resource of PGMs in the base of the Duluth Complex. In 1989, we acquired a 20-year renewable mining lease over the property from US Steel and commenced an investigation into the potential for mining and recovery of copper, nickel, and PGMs. We re-assayed pulps and rejects from the previous US Steel drilling to obtain data on the PGMs. Sequentially we entered into joint venture agreements with Nerco and Argosy Mining, which assisted in identifying and quantifying potential PGM values. However, the challenge of producing separate concentrates of saleable copper and nickel remained.

    In the mid-90’s, we began investigating the use of alternative metallurgical processes, including bio-leaching and pressure oxidation. In 1998 we focused on a hydrometallurgical technology that uses autoclaves, which are vessels operating at high temperature, high pressure, and in an oxygen-enriched environment, to oxidize the sulfidic ores and leach the metals therein. This technology was developed in the 1950s and has been used commercially in the copper, nickel, cobalt, and gold mining industries since the 1980s.

    In July 2000, we entered into a joint venture arrangement with North Limited (“North”), a major Australian mining company, to advance the NorthMet project (which did not include the Erie Plant at that time) to commercial production. Under the joint venture arrangement, North had the opportunity to earn an 87.5% interest in the NorthMet project by producing a feasibility study and funding 100% of the total capital costs to develop the project.

    In August 2000, Rio Tinto Limited (“Rio Tinto”) acquired North. Subsequently, Rio Tinto decided not to proceed with the NorthMet Project and we exercised our 30-day pre-emptive right, under a “change of control” clause, to terminate the joint venture arrangement. As a result, we regained a 100% interest in the NorthMet Project.

    Following completion of metallurgical pilot plant work in November 2000, we commissioned a pre-feasibility study on the project that was completed in April 2001. The pre-feasibility study contemplated a 50,000 metric tonne-per-day (55,000 short tpd) operation and anticipated the construction of a new, stand-alone processing plant to produce copper, nickel and cobalt metals on site. The study found the economics of the NorthMet Project were unacceptably low owing to the capital cost of building a new plant facility combined with low metal prices prevailing at that time. No further work was done until March 2003, when a new management team took over our Company and commenced a detailed review of the project.

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    The new management team believed that acquisition of the Erie Plant had the potential to substantially reduce the capital cost and to simplify the permitting process which could improve the project economics.

    By a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 5, 2003 and an option agreement dated February 14, 2004, we obtained an option (the “Cliffs Option”) to acquire certain property, plant, and equipment located near our NorthMet ore body from Cliffs. As consideration for the Cliffs Option, we paid $500,000 prior to January 31, 2004 and issued to Cliffs 1,000,000 of our common shares on March 30, 2004, valued at $229,320 to maintain our exclusive rights until June 30, 2006. On September 15, 2005 we reached agreement with Cliffs on the terms for the early exercise of our option and expansion of the assets to be acquired to include 100% ownership of the Erie Plant (the “Asset Purchase Agreement”). Under this agreement we agreed to pay Cliffs $1 million in cash, 6.2 million of our common shares, and commence quarterly payments of $250,000 starting on March 31, 2006 for a total of $2.4 million plus interest at 4% per annum on the outstanding balance. The final payment was made on June 30, 2008.

    On November 15, 2005, we consummated the Asset Purchase Agreement and completed the acquisition thereunder.

    On September 14, 2006, we entered into an agreement through two separate contracts for deed with Cliffs whereby we would acquire property and associated rights (“Cliffs II.”) We closed the transaction on December 20, 2006.

    The Erie Plant facility includes land, crushing and milling equipment, extensive spare parts, plant site buildings, real estate, tailings impoundments and workshops, access to extensive mining infrastructure, a railroad connection to the site of the NorthMet ore body, a 120-railcar fleet, locomotive fueling and maintenance facilities, water rights and pipelines, large administrative offices on site and approximately 6,000 acres to the east and west of and contiguous to our existing tailings facilities.

    The purchase price for Cliffs II consisted of 2 million of our common shares valued at $6.16 million and $15 million in cash to be issued and paid in three tranches, comprising:

    We also assumed certain liabilities associated with the property.

    We repaid the outstanding balance of the two $7 million notes plus accrued interest on December 21, 2011 and therefore, as of January 31, 2012 we have no further obligations to Cliffs other than the assumed environmental liabilities.

    Since inception, we have a cumulative deficit of $81.8 million, much of which has been incurred directly and indirectly in connection with our NorthMet Project. These expenditures supported drilling, sampling, assaying, environmental, metallurgical testing, and the pre-feasibility studies.

    - 16 -


    The following diagram illustrates the location of the NorthMet Project.

    Figure No. 1
    NorthMet Project Map

    (b)           Location / Access / Climate

    The NorthMet Project covers a total of approximately 16,700 acres or 25.9 square miles comprising two areas: the NorthMet mine site totaling approximately 4,300 acres or 6.5 square miles of leased mineral rights and the Erie Plant site totaling approximately 12,400 acres or 19.4 square miles of freehold land located approximately six miles west of the mine site. The property is located in St. Louis County in the Mesabi Range District about 60 miles north of Duluth, Minnesota. The NorthMet Project is easily accessible via state and county roads. The surfaced County Highway 666 links the plant to the town of Hoyt Lakes, itself approximately 25 miles east of Virginia, Minnesota which is located on State Highway 53. The mine site is accessible by an all-season gravel road from the plant site and a private railroad crosses the property immediately south of the deposit and runs to the plant site. The plant site is serviced by commercial railroad which connects into the US national and Trans-Canadian railroad systems, as well as a private railroad providing access to port facilities located on Lake Superior. Three high-voltage power lines owned by Minnesota Power supply the plant site and there is ready access to industrial electric power at the mine site.

    The northern Minnesota climate is continental, characterized by wide variations in temperature. The temperature in the nearby town of Babbitt averages -14ºC (7ºF) in January and 19ºC (66ºF) in July. The average annual precipitation is 28 inches with approximately 30% during the months from November to April and 70% from May through October.

    - 17 -


    (c)           Claims and ownership

                     (i)           NorthMet Leases

    Pursuant to two lease agreements, we lease certain lands covering 4,282 acres or 6.5 square miles located in St. Louis County, Minnesota, known as the NorthMet Project:

                     (ii)           The Erie Plant

    The Erie Plant
    As set forth under the Asset Purchase Agreement, we have assumed certain ongoing site-related environmental and reclamation obligations of Cliffs in connection with the Erie Plant. Once we obtain our permit to mine and Cliffs is released from its obligations by certain state agencies, we will be directly obligated to comply with applicable environmental and reclamation obligations. Prior to Cliffs' acquisition of the plant from LTV Steel and prior to our acquisition of the plant from Cliffs, both Cliffs and ourselves undertook environmental assessments and concluded that there were no material liabilities other than the ultimate closure and reclamation of the site. Until operating permits are granted to us, Cliffs remains the “Regulated Party” for such obligations although, as part of the Asset Purchase Agreement, we have indemnified Cliffs for such costs.

    The Erie Plant comprises a large crushing, grinding and milling facility that was built by a consortium of steel companies in the mid-1950s and processed low grade iron ore known as taconite that was transported to the facility by railroad from nearby mines. In the mid-1980’s, the consortium was consolidated into a single owner – LTV Steel. Pickands-Mather and its successor Cliffs operated the plant on behalf of the owners, processing approximately 100,000 tons per day of taconite ore. The plant was shut down in 2001 when LTV Steel filed for bankruptcy protection. Since then it has been maintained initially by Cliffs and, since November 15, 2005, by us. The plant did not operate during the 12 months ended January 31, 2012.

    - 18 -


    The plant is located approximately six miles west of our NorthMet ore body, about five miles north-northwest of the town of Hoyt Lakes, itself located about 25 miles west of Virginia, Minnesota. The plant site covers approximately 12,400 acres, or 19.4 square miles, and is powered by electricity from local power lines.

    The plant facilities include two rail dump pockets, two primary 60” gyratory crushers, eight secondary 36” gyratory crushers, seven tertiary seven-foot standard cone crushers, 14 seven-foot short-head crushers, 30 mill circuits each comprising one 12’x 14' rod mill and one 12’x 14' ball mill, three 12'x 24' regrind mills, maintenance facilities and spare parts, extensive conveyors, feeders, bins, auxiliary facilities and offices, established infrastructure including a 225 MVA high voltage electrical substation, water supply, roads, tailings basins and rail facilities.

    With the completion of Cliffs II, we also own a 120-railcar fleet, locomotive fueling and maintenance facilities, water rights and pipelines, and large administrative offices on site.

    Until the plant was closed in 2001, Cliffs had undertaken numerous programs to update and modernize control systems. The plant is generally in good physical condition and was operating at or near full capacity prior to its closure. We are not yet utilizing the Erie Plant but we have examined the plant in detail and have restarted certain pieces of equipment and believe it to be serviceable.

    We plan to use approximately one-third of the historic productive capacity to crush and grind material that we expect to mine from the NorthMet deposit. We intend to construct new facilities to recover copper metal, nickel and cobalt hydroxides, and precious metal precipitates.

    On January 28, 2010, Cliffs received a notice of intent to sue pursuant to Section 505 of the Clean Water Act on behalf of the Center for Biological Diversity, Save Lake Superior Association and the Indigenous Environmental Network. Pursuant to the notice, these environmental groups intended to file a lawsuit in Federal court for alleged violations by Cliffs Erie of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System ("NPDES") permits at three separate locations on the Cliffs Erie property.

    On April 6, 2010 Cliffs entered a consent decree with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) under which it is obligated to proceed with both short and long-term mitigation of the alleged violations. As the indemnifying party, we are working closely with Cliffs on fulfillment of Cliff’s obligations under the consent decree. In 2010, Cliffs submitted short-term mitigation plans, which we participated in preparing. Field study activities were completed in 2010 and 2011 and short-term mitigations were initiated in 2011 as outlined in the plans. Long Term Mitigation Plans were submitted to the MPCA in April of 2012. The MPCA is expected to review and respond to those plans by mid 2012.

    As of January 31, 2012 we estimate the total indemnification liability (including the additional liabilities associated with the consent decree) to be approximately $25.8 million and, based on the expected timing of such payments, our cost of capital, and anticipated inflation rates, we made a provision of $22.8 million in our financial statements at that date under IFRS.

    This is our best estimate of the future liability. However, there is substantial uncertainty related to the cost of implementation of the Long Term Mitigation Plan related to uncertainty about applicable water quality standards, the engineering scope and cost of mitigation required to meet those standards, and responsibility for the financial liability. Outcomes that are unfavorable to us could result in material additional liability.

    (d)           Permitting and Environmental

    We commenced the environmental review and permitting process in early 2004. In October 2005, the MDNR published its Environmental Assessment Worksheet Decision Document establishing the MDNR as the lead state agency and the USACE as the lead federal agency (together the “Lead Agencies”) for preparation of an EIS for the project. In 2006 these Lead Agencies selected an independent environmental contractor (“the EIS Contractor”) to prepare the EIS. The EIS Contractor is Environmental Resources Management, a leading global provider of environmental, health and safety, risk, and social consulting services. The EIS Contractor team included members with expertise and experience in mining sulfidic ores. Several other government agencies (including the USFS, the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa and the Fond Du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa) joined the EIS preparation team as Cooperating Agencies, which brought their special expertise to the process.

    - 19 -


    In January 2007, we submitted a Detailed Project Description (“DPD”) to state and federal regulators. The DPD laid out our development plans and proposed environmental safeguards including a mine plan, a wetland mitigation plan, air and water quality monitoring plans and a closure plan with closure estimate. Since then, we have submitted a supplemental DPD as well as more than 100 supporting research studies, including comprehensive mine waste characterization studies, water quality modeling and air quality modeling.

    Under state and federal guidelines and regulations, a Draft EIS identifies the environmental impact of a proposed project as well as evaluating alternatives and ways to mitigate potential impacts. We were involved in the process of alternative/mitigation development and had input into the technical and economical feasibility of potential alternatives and mitigations. The EIS Contractor prepared a series of preliminary versions of the Draft EIS that were reviewed and commented on by the Lead Agencies, other governmental agencies, and PolyMet.

    In November 2009, the Lead Agencies published the PolyMet Draft EIS with formal notification of publication in the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board (“EQB”) Monitor and the Federal Register, which started a 90-day period for public review and comment, which ended on February 3, 2010. During this period, the lead Agencies held two public meetings – one in the town of Aurora, MN near the project location and one in Blaine, MN in the metropolitan Minneapolis-St. Paul area.

    The Lead Agencies received more than 3,700 submissions containing approximately 22,000 separate comments, including an extensive comment letter from the EPA in its role as reviewer of projects that could impact the environment.

    On June 25, 2010 the Lead Agencies announced that they intended to complete the EIS process by preparing a Supplemental Draft EIS ("SDEIS) that incorporates a land exchange proposed with the USFS Superior National Forest land exchange and expands government agency cooperation. The USFS joined the USACE as a federal co-lead agency through the completion of the EIS process. In addition, the EPA has joined the effort as a cooperating agency. The MDNR remains the state co-lead agency.

    On October 13, 2010 the USACE and the USFS published a Notice of Intent to complete the SDEIS, which will:

    Public review of the scope of the land exchange ended on November 29, 2010. The Notice of Intent stated that the proposed land exchange would eliminate conflicts between the United States and private mineral ownership and consolidate land ownership to improve Superior National Forest management effectiveness and public access to federal lands. The proposed exchange is in accordance with Forest Service Strategic Plan Goals to provide and sustain long-term socioeconomic benefits to the American people, conserve open space, and sustain and enhance outdoor recreation activities.

    The NorthMet mine site encompasses approximately 2,840 of the 6,650 acres of land proposed for exchange to private ownership; the remaining federal property would improve intermingled and inefficient ownership patterns and eliminate conflicts if minerals development were to expand in the future.

    The lands that would be received by the Superior National Forest consist of forest and wetland habitat as well as lake frontage. These lands would enhance public recreation opportunities and complement existing federal ownership by eliminating or reducing private holdings surrounded by Superior National Forest land.

    - 20 -


    On February 1, 2012 we reported continued progress toward completion of the SDEIS. ERM, the Lead Agencies' environmental consultant, has completed a significant amount of work on the document, which will comprise nine chapters. The first four chapters, comprising over 400 pages and including more than 100 figures, have been drafted and are being reviewed by the Lead Agencies.

    Other important milestones achieved as at February 1, 2012 include:

    As SDEIS preparation moves into the final stages, the Lead Agencies have completed a detailed assessment of tasks outstanding and the timeline. The key task is completion of detailed environmental modeling, including quality assurance/quality control plans as well as generation, verification, review, and documentation of modeling input data and model assumptions.

    Once all aspects of modeling have been completed, the results will be incorporated into a preliminary SDEIS that will be available for review by the Cooperating Agencies (including the EPA). Comments from the Cooperating Agencies will be incorporated as appropriate, which will then be published for public review and comment. A final EIS will incorporate comments, after which a subsequent Adequacy Decision by the MDNR and Record of Decision by the federal co-lead agencies are necessary before the land exchange can occur and various permits required to construct and operate the project can be issued.

    A number of permits will need to be issued by the MDNR, the MPCA and the USACE before construction can begin - the major permits are:

              U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

              Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

              Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

    As of January 31, 2012, we had spent approximately $40.3 million on environmental review and permitting activities comprising $6.5 million expensed prior to October 2006 and $33.8 million since October 2006.

    - 21 -


    (e)           History of Exploration

    Cautionary Note to United States Investors Concerning Estimates of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resources

    This section uses the terms ”measured resources”, ”indicated resources”, and ”inferred resources”. We advise United States investors that while these terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations (under NI-43-101), the SEC does not recognize them. United States investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of the mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted to reserves. In addition, “inferred resources” have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian Rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of Feasibility or Pre-Feasibility Studies, or economic studies except for a Preliminary Assessment as defined under NI 43-101. United States investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.

    Important Notes and Assumptions Throughout.

    1.           The terms Mineral Resources and Reserves as used herein conform to the definitions contained in NI 43-101.

    2.           Reserves are contained within the envelope of Measured & Indicated Mineral Resource. Mineral Resources are not Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.

    3.           Mineral Resources and Reserves have been calculated using the following metal prices: Copper - $1.25/lb, Nickel - $5.60 per pound, Cobalt - $15.25/lb, Palladium - $210 per ounce, Platinum - $800 per ounce and Gold - $400 per ounce.

    4.           Base Case economics for the purpose of the Technical Report to NI 43-101standards are the weighted average of the three-year trailing (60%) and two-year forward (40%) market prices using July 31, 2006 as a reference for the three-year trailing price and average forward prices during July 2006 for forward prices. Specifically, these prices are: Copper - $2.25/lb, Nickel - $7.80 per pound, Cobalt - $16.34/lb, Palladium - $274 per ounce, Platinum - $1,040 per ounce and Gold - $540 per ounce.

    5.           The copper equivalent grade is calculated by multiplying the grade of each metal by the metal price (in the same units) used in reserve and resource modeling (see note 3) and dividing the product by the copper price.

    6.           The Net Metal Value (NMV) is calculated by summing the product of the grade of each metal, the metal price (in the same units) used in reserve and resource modeling (see note 3), the expected metal recovery, and the expected payment terms.

    Prospectors first discovered copper and nickel near Ely, Minnesota about 20 miles north of NorthMet in the 1940s. Subsequently, the Bear Creek Mining Company conducted a regional exploration program resulting in the discovery of the Babbitt deposit (northeast of NorthMet). US Steel began an exploration program in the Duluth Complex in the late 1960’s and over the next few years drilled 112 core holes into the NorthMet property (then called Dunka Road) to an average depth of 1,200 feet. In 1991, Nerco drilled an additional 2 shallow holes.

    From 1998 through a winter drill program in 2006/7, we have conducted a series of drilling programs totaling 243 holes for approximately 146,000 feet of core and reverse circulation drilling. These holes, combined with recompilation of all prior work, for a total of 357 diamond and reverse circulation holes aggregating to approximately 280,000 feet, were the basis of our most recent resource and reserve estimates. Since the summer of 2007 we have drilled an additional 80 shallow holes totaling 26,000 feet, which were not incorporated into our 2007 Technical Report under NI 43-101. Total drilling is 437 holes to an average depth of 700 feet.

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    Mineral Resources and Reserves

    Within the overall mineralized envelope defined by these exploration programs, the DFS defined measured and indicated mineral resources above the 500-foot elevation (approximately 1,120 feet below surface.) On August 9, 2007 we reported that measured and indicated mineral resources at the NorthMet Project had increased by 51% to 638 million short tons from the 422 million short tons reported in the DFS. The revised mineral resource estimates are based on the same cut-off grades used in the DFS – namely a Net Metal Value (“NMV”) of $7.42 per ton, reflecting mine planning at a copper price of $1.25 per pound and a nickel price of $5.60 per pound – see notes to the following table.

    The increase in mineral resources reflects two changes:

    As a result, measured and indicated mineral resources have increased by 216 million short tons to 638 million short tons and inferred mineral resources have been expanded to 252 million short tons from 121 million short tons – all on the DFS cut-off grade. Details of the mineral resources are set out in the following table.

    Updated Mineral Resources compared with DFS

      1.

    Mineral resources have been calculated using the following metal prices: Copper - $1.25/lb, Nickel - $5.60 per pound, Cobalt - $15.25 per pound, Palladium - $210 per ounce, Platinum - $800 per ounce and Gold - $400 per ounce.

      2.

    The NMV is calculated by summing the product of the grade of each metal, the metal price (in the same units) used in resource modeling, the expected metal recovery, and the expected payment terms as set out in the DFS.

    The resource estimate update was completed by a team from the Toronto office of Wardrop Engineering working closely with PolyMet’s chief geologist, at the time, Richard Patelke. A NI 43-101 compliant report describing this increase was issued in September 2007 and has been filed on PolyMet’s website (www.polymetmining.com) and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Pierre Desautels of Wardrop and Richard Patelke of PolyMet are the Qualified Persons for this report.

    - 23 -


    On September 26, 2007 PolyMet reported that proven and probable mineable reserves at the NorthMet Project had increased by 51% to 275 million short tons from the 182 million short tons reported in the DFS.

    These reserves are constrained to mineable blocks associated with material contained in the measured and indicated resource blocks in the DFS for which detailed mining cost estimates, infrastructure planning, and waste rock stockpile locations were prepared as part of a larger study supporting the DFS. It should be noted that the inferred resources were not included in the DFS or in this interim reserve update.

    In conjunction with this increase in reserves, the strip (waste:ore) ratio for the revised mine plan declined to 1.46:1 from 1.66:1.

    Updated Reserves compared with DFS

      Short Tons Copper Nickel Cobalt Precious Metals  
      (millions) (%) (%) (%) (oz/st) (g/mt)
    Updated Reserve Estimate            
       Proven 118.1 0.30 0.09 0.008 0.011 0.368
       Probable 156.5 0.27 0.08 0.008 0.010 0.327
       Proven and Probable 274.7 0.28 0.08 0.008 0.010 0.337
       Waste 401.2          
       Strip Ratio 1.46          
                 
    DFS            
       Proven 80.4 0.32 0.09 0.008 0.012 0.406
       Probable 101.3 0.30 0.08 0.007 0.011 0.385
       Proven and Probable 181.7 0.31 0.08 0.008 0.012 0.395
       Waste 302.3          
       Strip Ratio 1.66          

      1.

    The terms Mineral Resources and Reserves as used herein conform to the definitions contained in NI 43- 101.

      2.

    Mineral Resources and Reserves have been calculated using the following metal prices: Copper - $1.25/lb, Nickel - $5.60 per pound, Cobalt - $15.25/lb, Palladium - $210 per ounce, Platinum - $800 per ounce and Gold - $400 per ounce.

    The reserve estimate update was completed by a team from the Toronto office of Wardrop Engineering working closely with our team of Don Hunter and Richard Patelke. Gordon Zurowski of Wardrop and Don Hunter of PolyMet were the Qualified Persons.

    (f)           Geology and Mineralization

    The geology of northeastern Minnesota is predominantly Precambrian in age. Approximately 1.1 billion years ago, mid-continent rifting resulted in mafic volcanism and associated intrusions along a portion of the Midcontinent Rift System, which extends from Ohio, through the Lake Superior region to Kansas. The Midcontinent Rift consists of three parts: thick lava flows, intrusive rock and overlying sedimentary rock. There are three major intrusive complexes: the Coldwell Complex of Ontario, the Mellen Complex along the south shore of Lake Superior and the Duluth Complex along the north shore.

    The Duluth Complex hosts the NorthMet mineralization. The Complex extends in an arcuate belt from Duluth to the northeastern tip of Minnesota. Emplacement of the intrusion appears to have been along a system of northeast-trending normal faults that form half-grabens stepping down to the southeast. The magma was intruded as sheet-like bodies along the contact between the Early Proterozoic sedimentary rocks of the Animikie Group and the mafic lava flows of the North Shore Volcanic Group.

    - 24 -


    The Duluth Complex is represented by the Partridge River intrusion which overlays the Biwabik Iron Formation – the Partridge River intrusion is locally sub-divided into seven troctolitic units:

     

    Unit 7 and Unit 6 – texturally homogeneous plagioclase-rich troctolite, each with a persistent ultramafic base. Units 6 and 7 are each about 400 ft. thick.

       

     

     

    Unit 5 – coarse grained anorthositic troctolite (300 ft.) grading down to Unit 4.

       

     

     

    Unit 4 – homogeneous augite troctolite and troctolite, with a less persistent ultramafic horizon. The contact between Unit 4 and Unit 5 is difficult to establish and the two units may actually be a single unit.

       

     

     

    Unit 3 – the most easily recognized unit because of its mottled appearance due to olivine oikocrysts. It is fine grained troctolitic anorthosite to anorthositic troctolite. Average thickness is 250 ft. but locally can be up to 500 ft.

       

     

     

    Unit 2 – homogeneous troctolite with abundant ultramafic units and a generally persistent basal ultramafic. This unit shows the most variation in thickness and may be locally absent. Units 2 & 3 are modeled as a single package for resource estimation.

       

     

     

    Unit 1 – the most heterogeneous unit, both texturally and compositionally. Grain size is generally coarser at the top of the unit and fines downward. The unit contains abundant inclusions of the footwall rock and is noritic towards the base. This is the main sulfide mineral bearing unit. Two internal ultramafic layers are generally present. Unit 1 is probably the result of multiple pulses of magma injection. Average thickness is about 450 ft.

    The general trend of the sedimentary rocks at the base of the NorthMet deposit is striking east-northeast and to dipping to the southeast about 15-25°, and the Partridge River intrusion appears to follow this general trend.

    The majority of the rock at NorthMet is unaltered, with a minor alteration found along fractures and micro-fractures, consisting of serpentine, chlorite and magnetite replacing olivine, uralite and biotite replacing pyroxene, and sausserite and sericite replacing plagioclase. Sulfide mineralization does not appear to be directly related to the alteration.

    The metals of interest at NorthMet are copper, nickel, cobalt, platinum, palladium, gold and lesser amounts of rhodium and ruthenium. In general, the metals are positively correlated with copper mineralization, cobalt being the main exception. Unit 1 mineralization is found throughout the deposit. A less extensive mineralized zone is found in Units 4, 5, and 6 in the western part of the deposit, it is copper-rich relative to sulfur, and moderately enriched in PGMs.

    Sulfide mineralization consists of chalcopyrite, cubanite, pyrrhotite and pentlandite with minor bornite, violarite, pyrite, sphalerite, galena, talnakhite, mackinawite and valleriite. Sulfide minerals occur mainly as blebs interstitial with plagioclase, olivine and augite grains, but also occur within plagioclase and augite grains, as intergrowths with silicates, or as fine veinlets. The percentage of sulfides varies from trace to about 5%. Palladium, platinum and gold are associated with the sulfides.

    The NorthMet deposit has been identified over a length of approximately 2.5 miles and has been found to a depth of more than 2,600 feet. It is covered by a thin layer of glacial till but otherwise reaches to the surface at the northern edge.

     

    - 25 -


    (g)           Development Plans

    Our development plans were set out in our DFS prepared by Bateman in September 2006. This contemplated the development of a new open pit mine at our NorthMet ore body, using rail infrastructure we acquired as part of Cliffs II to transport approximately 32,000 tons of ore per day from the mine site to our Erie Plant, where we would use our existing facilities to crush and mill the rock. The finely ground material would then pass to a new flotation circuit with waste material sent to existing waste tailings facilities and the concentrate being passed to a new hydrometallurgical plant that we plan to build at the Erie Plant site.

    We believe that we have completed exploration work required for the initial phases of production at NorthMet, however, we may need to conduct further in-fill drilling during the anticipated life of the project. Since publication of the DFS, we have recognized the commercial potential to sell concentrates during the construction and commissioning of the new hydrometallurgical facilities.

    DFS Update

    On May 20, 2008 we reported revised plans and cost estimates for construction and operating costs. These revised plans included:

    On February 2, 2011 we reported a further refinement to the development plan whereby we propose to build the project in two phases:

    The changes reflect continued metallurgical process and other project improvements as well as improved environmental controls that are being incorporated into the SDEIS. The analysis is based on likely metal market conditions. The advantages, compared with the earlier plan, include a better return on capital investment, reduced financial risk, lower energy consumption, and reduced waste disposal and emissions at site.

    Approximately $127 million of the total $602 million in total capital costs, and of the $290 million capital costs for the larger scale metallurgical facilities described in the 2008 DFS Update was attributed to the second autoclave and the copper circuit.

    We plan to provide a detailed project update when the project development plans now being analyzed in the SDEIS are finalized. This detailed project update will include revised mine plans, process and project improvements, and will incorporate the latest environmental controls.

    Saleable Products
    The DFS describes three products from NorthMet. During construction and commissioning of the hydrometallurgical plant, we anticipate that we will sell separate copper and nickel concentrates. Once the smaller-scale hydrometallurgical plant is operational, our long term products will comprise copper concentrate, a mixed hydroxide of nickel and cobalt that will be shipped to a third-party processor to produce nickel and cobalt metals, and a precious metals precipitate that will be shipped to a third-party refiner for production of palladium, platinum and gold.

    - 26 -


    On September 4, 2008 we announced that we had reached an agreement with Glencore whereby Glencore would purchase our production of concentrates, metals, or intermediate products at prevailing market terms at the time of delivery for at least the first 5 years of production. We executed the agreement on October 31, 2008 as part of a strategic alliance between us and Glencore.

    Capital Costs
    Our May 2008 DFS Update set out that, on a like-for-like basis (excluding scope changes), the total capital cost had increased to $516.8 million. This increase reflects both cost inflation and design scope changes since the DFS, including facilities needed to ship concentrate during the construction and commissioning of the new hydrometallurgical plant. This staged approach shortens the initial construction period, makes the project less sensitive to the delivery schedule for long lead time equipment such as autoclave vessels, and means that we can commence operations of the mine, the existing crushing and milling plant, the existing tailings disposal facilities, and the new flotation circuit, before starting the new hydrometallurgical plant.

    In addition to these scope changes and the effect of inflation, we anticipate spending an additional $85.1 million on measures to protect the environment, over and above the measures contemplated in the DFS. $76.6 million for mining equipment that was assumed to be provided by a mining contract in the DFS has been incorporated as an operating lease in updated operating costs.

    May 2008 DFS Update Capital Costs
    (US dollars, millions)

              Change     Initial Concentrate  
        Full Project     from DFS     Sales  
                       
       Definitive Feasibility Study   379.8           138.7  
       Escalation and other scope changes   137.0     36%     108.9  
            Total   516.8           247.6  
       Environmental measures   85.1           64.7  
            Total change   222.1     58%     173.6  
            TOTAL   601.9           312.3  
                       

    In February 2011 we announced that we had simplified the metallurgical process whereby we plan to build one hydromet circuit to process nickel concentrate, and continue producing and marketing copper concentrate over the long term. This revised process eliminates the planned copper solvent-extraction/electro-winning circuit. These elements represented approximately $127 million of the total $602 million capital costs, but have no effect on the capital cost for the concentrates-only phase of the project.

    May 2008 DFS Update Operating Plans and Costs
    The overall mining and operating plan remains the same as that defined in the DFS and which forms the basis of the plan being analyzed in the environmental impact statement. We intend to mine 32,000 tons of ore per day for an operating life of twenty years, processing a total of 224 million tons of ore. The mine plan continues to be based on the following metal prices: copper - $1.25/lb, nickel - $5.60 per pound, cobalt - $15.25/lb, palladium - $210 per ounce, platinum - $800 per ounce, and gold - $400 per ounce.

    Operating costs per ton of ore processed have increased to $13.33 from $11.02 in the DFS reflecting higher fuel, mine equipment, and other consumable costs, as well as general inflation. The cost of mining and delivering ore to the plant is now estimated at $4.31 per ton compared with $3.80 per ton in the DFS. The increase in mining costs has been partially offset by the lower strip ratio, larger mining equipment, and owner versus contractor operation.

    - 27 -


    The economic analysis is based on SEC-reserve standards using prices at the time, namely the three-year trailing average at April 30, 2008. This price deck is: copper - $2.90/lb, nickel - $12.20/lb, cobalt - $23.50/lb, palladium - $320/oz, platinum - $1,230/oz, and gold - $635/oz. While these prices are somewhat higher than those used on the economic analysis in the DFS, the price are slightly below the three-year average at the end of our fiscal 2009 year, namely: copper - $3.13/lb, nickel - $12.45/lb, cobalt - $27.34/lb, palladium - $342/oz, platinum - $1,343/oz, and gold - $733/oz.

    The DFS Update prices translate into copper cash costs of $1.05 per pound using a co-product basis to calculate costs, compared with the DFS estimate of $0.81 per pound. Taking revenues from the other metals as a deduction against costs, the co-product basis shows a cost of $(0.28) per pound compared with $0.06 per pound in the DFS.

    We plan to further update the DFS during the course of our current fiscal year to reflect all project changes that are being incorporated into the SDEIS.

    Economic Summary - May 2008 DFS Update Highlights

    Key economic metrics include earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) which is projected to increase to $217.3 million on average over the first five years of operations from $175.3 million estimated in the DFS. The net present value of future cash flow (after tax) discounted at 7.5% is estimated to be $649.4 million compared with $595.4 million in the DFS, and the after tax internal rate of return is now estimated at 30.6% compared with 26.7% in the DFS. The table below also sets out the affect on EBITDA of a 10% change in each metal price.

     

    - 28 -


    (h)           Regulations and Government Rules

    The mining industry has been subject to increasing government controls and regulations in recent years. We have obtained all necessary permits for exploration work performed to date and anticipate no material problems obtaining the necessary permits to proceed with further development.

    ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

    None.

    ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

    (a)           Operating Results

    This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements. Our functional currency is the United States dollar and our financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB, effective with the Company’s transition to IFRS on February 1, 2011. Previously, the Company’s consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with CGAAP. Fiscal 2010 income statement information is presented in accordance with CGAAP and may not be appropriate as a comparative basis. Material measurement differences between CGAAP and accounting principles in the United States, applicable to the Company, were described in the Company’s previous consolidated financial statements.

    Summary of Events During the Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 2012

    During the year ended January 31, 2012, and through the date of the filing of this Annual Report, we continued to advance our NorthMet Project including the activities noted below.

    On February 2, 2011 we announced that we had simplified the proposed metallurgical process and now plan to build the project in two phases:

    Previous plans included a second autoclave and a copper solvent extraction/electro-wining (“SX-EW”) circuit to produce copper metal along with value added nickel-cobalt hydroxide and precious metals precipitate products. The changes reflect continued metallurgical process and other project improvements as well as improved environmental controls that are being incorporated into the SDEIS. The advantages, compared with the earlier plan, include a better return on capital investment, reduced financial risk, lower energy consumption, and reduced waste disposal and emissions at site. Approximately $127 million of the total $602 million capital costs estimated in the May 2008 DFS Update will not be incurred in this revised plan.

    On March 10, 2011 we appointed Alan R. (Al) Hodnik and Michael M. (Mike) Sill to our Board of Directors.

    On April 15, 2011 we reported that the Company and the Lead Agencies expect to finalize detailed work plans for the SDEIS by May 2011. The detailed project, which includes the simplified metallurgical process and reduction in capital costs that we announced on February 2, 2011, will then be modeled to predict environmental impacts of the project. The third party contractor hired by the lead agencies will then prepare a preliminary supplemental draft Environmental Impact Statement, which will be reviewed by the Lead Agencies, cooperating agencies (including the US Environmental Protection Agency and tribal governments) and ourselves. Once that review process has been completed, the SDEIS will be finalized for publication and public comment.

    - 29 -


    On April 15, 2011 the Board of the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (“IRRRB”) reapproved a secured loan to our subsidiary, Poly Met Mining, Inc. of up to $4 million. The loan closed on June 28, 2011, is secured by the land acquired, carries a fixed interest rate of 5% per annum, compounded annually if not paid, and is repayable on the earlier of June 30, 2016 or the date which the related land is exchanged with the USFS. PolyMet issued warrants giving the IRRRB the right to purchase up to 400,000 of our shares at $2.50 per share at any time until the earlier of June 30, 2016 and one year after permits are received.

    On July 15, 2011 the Company sold to Glencore 5 million common shares at $2.00 per share pursuant to the November 2010 private placement agreement. In a separate transaction, Glencore acquired 9.2 million of our common shares from Cliffs, representing that company's entire holding of our common shares.

    On September 19, 2011 we reported that completion of the SDEIS was taking longer than had been anticipated due to the time the Lead Agencies were spending receiving and considering input from Cooperating Agencies during the planning process, an important step in producing an adequate and defensible SDEIS. In addition, some time was lost because of the Minnesota state government shutdown in July.

    We also announced that the Governor of Minnesota had announced important strengthening of the state's management of the environmental review and permitting process for mining projects, comprising two elements: creation of a Mining Coordinator position to oversee and coordinate the environmental review and permitting process for mining projects, and creation of a Mining Sub-Cabinet comprised of the Commissioners of the DNR, the MPCA, the Department of Employment and Economic Development ("DEED"), and the IRRRB.

    On December 6, 2011 we sold to Glencore 13,333,333 common shares at $1.50 per share and issued warrants to purchase 2,600,000 of our common shares at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day volume weighted average price of our shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and we provide notice to Glencore that we have received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore. Approximately $7.0 million was used to repay all outstanding notes payable to Cliffs.

    On December 6, 2011 the Company and Glencore also amended some of the existing financing agreements comprising:

    The final tranche of the 2010 private placement, comprising the sale of 5 million common shares at $2.00 per share no later than October 15, 2012 is unaffected by the amendments to the financing agreements, as are the off take and marketing agreements whereby Glencore will market all of PolyMet's products for a minimum of five years from the start of commercial production at NorthMet.

    - 30 -


    Summary of Operating Results

    As of January 31, 2012, we operated in one segment, the exploration and development of the base and precious metals at our NorthMet Project. Head office comprises general and administrative costs, share based compensation expense, financing expenses, foreign exchange interest income, assets, purchase of property, plant and equipment and amortization reported by the Canadian head office. 2010 operating loss information is presented in accordance with CGAAP and may not be appropriate as a comparative basis.

        NorthMet     Head Office     Consolidated  
        Project     ($000’s)   ($000’s)
    2012   ($000’s)              
                       
    Segment operating loss $  1,025   $  2,020   $  3,045  
                       
    Identifiable assets $  173,336   $  16,235   $  189,571  
                       
                       
                       
    2011                  
                       
    Segment operating loss $  1,631   $ 5,031   $ 6,662  
                       
    Identifiable assets $ 147,726   $ 9,010   $  156,736  
                       
                       
                       
    2010                  
                       
    Segment operating loss $  892   $  8,131   $  9,023  
                       
    Identifiable assets $ 118,257   $  21,391   $ 139,648  

    On November 12, 2010, we announced that we had renegotiated our debenture financing with Glencore. The agreed amendments to the debenture financing are as follows:

    On November 12, 2010, we announced that we had entered into a definitive agreement with Glencore to sell in a private placement 15 million common shares at $2.00 per share for gross proceeds of $30 million, before deducting estimated offering expenses. Completion of the sale of these shares and funding are expected to occur in the following three tranches subject, in each case, to certain closing conditions:

    - 31 -


    Glencore has a right of first refusal to provide all material financings, subject to regulatory approval, if it owns 10% or more of our issued and outstanding shares and, if it owns more than 5% of our issued and outstanding shares, Glencore has the right to participate in any equity-related financing to maintain its partially diluted ownership interest.

    In accordance with IFRS, the November 2010 transactions, whereby our existing convertible debt at that date with a book value of $26.546 million was deemed to have been extinguished and reissued, all of the costs associated with the transaction have been recorded as a non-cash expense of $2.931 million

    Year ended January 31, 2012 compared with the year ended January 31, 2011

    Overall. Our focus for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012 was to provide the Lead Agencies with input into the SDEIS and permit work at our NorthMet Project and to obtain additional financing.

    Loss for the year. During the year ended January 31, 2012, we incurred a loss of $3.045 million ($0.02 loss per share) compared to a loss of $6.662 million ($0.04 loss per share) in 2011. The decrease in the net loss for the current year was primarily attributable to:

    These items were partially offset by:

    Year ended January 31, 2011 compared with the year ended January 31, 2010

    Overall. Our focus for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2011 was to provide the Lead Agencies with input into the SDEIS and permit work at our NorthMet Project, obtain additional financing and to continue to develop the NorthMet Project including updating the mineral reserves and mineral resources estimates and preparing for construction.

    Loss for the year. 2010 operating loss information is presented in accordance with CGAAP and may not be appropriate as a comparative basis. During the year ended January 31, 2011, we incurred a loss of $6.662 million ($0.04 loss per share) compared to a loss of $9.023 million ($0.06 loss per share) in 2010. The decrease in the net loss for the period was primarily attributable to:

    - 32 -


    These items were partially offset by the non-cash costs associated with extending the term of our debentures by a year, the fair value of the amendments to the Glencore warrants, which resulted in a non-cash charge of $2.931 million to our income statement. A further offset to the decrease in reported net loss derived from our decision to review alternatives for construction financing and not to renew our agreement with BNP Paribas Loan Services, which agreement was to advise and assist us in all aspects of preparation for construction finance, which expired on July 31, 2010. As such, the $1.830 million, $1.197 million of which was non-cash related to the fair value of warrants issued, recorded as a deferred financing cost asset was written off the consolidated statement of loss in the current year. In addition, we recorded a loss of $520,000 in the current year period as a result of our decision to reclassify an asset as held for sale and write-down its carrying value to fair value less cost to sell.

    (b)           Liquidity And Capital Resources

    Financing Activities

    On November 12, 2010, we entered into an agreement with Glencore whereby Glencore agreed to purchase 15 million of our common shares at $2.00 per share in three tranches to occur no later than certain agreed dates, and according to our needs based on a budget to be agreed. The first two tranches of 5 million shares for gross proceeds of $10 million were funded on January 17, 2010 and July 15, 2011. The remaining tranche, for gross proceeds of $10 million, will close on or before October 15, 2012. Transaction costs for the first tranche totaled $106,000.

    On November 24, 2009 we closed the first tranche of an equity financing with Glencore for 3,773,585 of our common shares at $2.65 per share for gross proceeds of $10 million. On January 26, 2010, we closed the second tranche of the equity financing with Glencore of an additional 5,660,377 common shares at $2.65 per common share for gross proceeds of $15 million. Transactions costs for these two financings totaled $499,000.

    During the year ended January 31, 2011 we issued 845,000 common shares (prior year period – 775,000) upon exercise of options for proceeds of $808,000 (prior year period - $477,000) and nil common shares (prior year period 167,954) upon exercise of share warrants for proceeds of $nil (prior year period - $494,000).

    On August 27, 2009, we announced that we had filed a universal shelf registration on Form F-3 with the SEC. This universal shelf registration allows us to have the option to offer and sell, from time to time in one or more offerings, up to $500 million of our debt securities, common shares, warrants and units.

    On October 31, 2008, we entered into a financing with Glencore for an aggregate of $50 million floating rate secured debentures due on September 30, 2011 issued by PolyMet US and guaranteed by the Company. The debentures bear interest at 12-month US dollar LIBOR plus 4%. Interest is payable in cash or by increasing the principal amount of the Debentures, at Glencore’s option. The debentures are secured by all of our assets. The debentures were exchangeable into our common shares at Glencore’s option at $4.00 per share.

    - 33 -


    On October 31, 2008, we issued to Glencore warrants to purchase 6.25 million our common shares at $5.00 if exercised before the NorthMet Project produced a total of 20,000 metric tonnes of concentrate, or $6.00 thereafter.

    On November 17, 2009, we agreed to modify certain terms of the above transaction. Under the new terms the warrants entitled Glencore to purchase 6.25 million of our common shares at $3.00 and expired on September 30, 2011. The incremental $158,000 increase in the fair value of the warrants due to the warrant exchange was debited to warrant amendment expense and credited to contributed surplus. Separately in November 2009, we agreed to modify the terms of the final $25 million Tranche E of the $50 million Debenture with Glencore such that Tranche E, if drawn, could be exchanged at $2.65 per share.

    On November 12, 2010, we announced that we had agreed upon additional modification of certain terms of the above transaction:

    During the year ended January 31, 2010 we issued 775,000 shares (prior year period – 262,800) upon exercise of options for proceeds of $477,000 and 167,954 shares upon exercise of share warrants for proceeds of $494,000.

    During the year ended January 31, 2008, we issued 15 million units at $2.75 per unit, with each unit comprising one common share and one-half of one warrant (for accounting purposes, the value of the units was bifurcated between the common shares and the warrants) and 520,000 warrants for finders' fees related to the transaction. Each whole warrant was exercisable into a common share at a price of $4.00 at any time until October 13, 2008 (see amendment below), subject to an early trigger if the 20-day volume weighted average price of the common shares was $6.00 or more. On October 10, 2008, we announced that we had received the consent from the holders of more than two-thirds of the 8,020,000 warrants issued as part of the April 2007 private placement to exchange those warrants into:

    In October 2009, we received the consent from holders of more than two-thirds of the above warrants to exchange the 4,010,000 warrants due to expire on October 13, 2009 for 4,010,000 warrants, each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one of our common shares at $3.00 at any time until the sooner of 30 calendar days after publication of the draft Environmental Impact Statement by the State of Minnesota in the State’s Environmental Quality Board Monitor and December 31, 2009. The incremental $1,005,000 increase in the fair value of the warrants due to the warrant exchange was debited to warrant amendment expense and credited to contributed surplus.

    - 34 -


    In November 2009, we received the consent from holders of more than two-thirds of the above warrants to exchange the 4,010,000 warrants due to expire the earlier of 30 calendar days after publication of the draft Environmental Impact Statement by the State of Minnesota in the state’s Environmental Quality Board Monitor and December 31, 2009 for 4,010,000 warrants, each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one of our common shares at $3.00 at any time until the sooner of 21 business days after publication of the final Environmental Impact Statement by the State of Minnesota in the State’s Environmental Quality Board Monitor and December 31, 2010. The incremental $3,757,000 increase in the fair value of the warrants due to the warrant exchange was debited to warrant amendment expense and credited to contributed surplus.

    Warrants to purchase 167,954 of our common shares had been exercised prior to January 31, 2010 and, on December 31, 2010 warrants to purchase 3,842,046 of our common shares at $3.00 expired. We recorded a future income tax recovery as the expiration of the warrants triggered a capital gain for tax purposes, which was offset by the application of tax losses carried forward resulting in a credit of $1,219,000.

    Year Ended January 31, 2012

    Cash used in investing activities for the year ended January 31, 2012 was $16.137 million compared with $16.519 million in the year ended January 31, 2011, with the decrease being primarily due the sale of the used drill, partially offset by purchasing land for the USFS land exchange with funds received from the loan from the IRRRB.

    Cash used in operating activities in the year ended January 31, 2012 was $2.955 million compared to cash used in the prior year of $3.068 million. The variance in cash is primarily due to changes in non-cash working capital balances and the above noted operating variances.

    Cash provided by financing activities for the year ended January 31, 2012 was $26.209 million (prior year - $8.666 million). The current year activity was primarily due to the Glencore financings and the IRRRB loan and the issuance of share capital on the exercise of share options for $902,000 (prior year - $808,000), partially offset by the repayment of $8.500 million of debt (prior year - $2 million).

    Cash used in investment activities for the year ended January 31, 2012 was $16.137 million compared with $16.519 million in the year ended January 31, 2011, with the decrease being primarily due to the sale of the used drill,  partially offset by purchasing land for the USFS land exchange with funds received from the loan from the IRRRB.

    Total cash for the year ended January 31, 2012 increased by $7.117 million for a balance of $17.478 million compared to the year ended January 31, 2011 where cash decreased $10.921 million to a balance of $10.361 million.

    Substantially all cash and equivalents are held in United States currency.

    As at January 31, 2012 we had working capital of $16.375 million compared with working capital of $4.199 million at January 31, 2011 consisting primarily of cash of $17.478 million (January 31, 2011 - $10.361 million), trade and other receivables of $440,000 (January 31, 2011 - $318,000), prepaid expenses of $934,000 (January 31, 2011 - $636,000), asset held for sale of $nil (January 31, 2011 - $3.420 million); accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $1.679 million (January 31, 2011 - $2.444 million), the current portion of the notes to Cliffs of $nil (January 31, 2011 - $6.750 million) and the current portion of environmental rehabilitation provision of $828,000 (January 31, 2011 - $1.408 million). The Company expects to repay the $4 million IRRRB loan plus capitalized interest from working capital or additional financing and to either exchange the debentures into equity or repay them from additional financing or from operations once commercial production has commenced. The Company’s cash is primarily held in deposits and bearer deposits of a major Canadian bank and does not include any exposure to asset-backed commercial paper.

    The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities in the normal course of operations.

    Should we wish to continue to further advance the NorthMet Project to commercial production we will require additional funds. As we have no operating revenues, the only source of liquidity consists primarily of cash from proceeds of project debt, other debt and equity financing.

    - 35 -


    Debt

    Pursuant to Asset Purchase Agreements, our wholly owned subsidiary Poly Met Mining, Inc. signed three notes payable to Cliffs in the amounts of $2,400,000, $7,000,000 and $7,000,000, respectively. The first note was fully repaid in prior years and the second two notes were fully repaid in December 2011.

    On June 30, 2011 PolyMet closed a $4 million loan from the IRRRB. At the same time, the Company exercised its options to acquire two tracts of land totaling approximately 5,300 acres of forests, wetlands, and lakes with high recreational value that are included as part of the proposed land exchange with the USFS. The loan is secured by the land acquired, carries a fixed interest rate of 5% per annum, compounded annually if not paid, and is repayable on the earlier of June 30, 2016 or the date which the related land is exchanged with the USFS. PolyMet has issued warrants giving the IRRRB the right to purchase 400,000 of our common shares at $2.50 per share at any time until the earlier of June 30, 2016 or one year after permits are received.

    Pursuant to a financing agreement with Glencore, we have entered into convertible debenture agreements for $25 million. As part of a December 2011 transaction, the term of the $25 million initial principal debentures were extended from September 30, 2012 to the earlier of i) PolyMet giving Glencore ten days notice that PolyMet has received permits necessary to start construction of the NorthMet Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore (the "Early Maturity Event"), and ii) September 30, 2014, on which date all principal and interest accrued to such date will be due and payable. Glencore has the right to exchange some or all of the debentures at any time. Upon occurrence of the Early Maturity Event, the initial principal and capitalized interest will be exchanged into common shares of PolyMet at $1.50 per share.

    As at January 31, 2012 the outstanding long term debt was as follows:

          January 31, 2012     January 31, 2011  
                   
      Notes payable $  3,450   $  8,500  
      Accrued interest and accretion   222     25  
      Convertible debt   29,018     27,631  
      Total debt   32,690     36,156  
      Less current portion   (- )   (6,750 )
                   
      Long term debt $  32,690   $  29,406  

    We anticipate using working capital, additional financing and funds from operations once commercial production has commenced to meet the above payment obligations to IRRRB and Glencore.

    (c)           Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc.

    We do not engage in any research and development activities and have no patents or licenses that are materially important to us.

    (d)           Trend Information

    There are no major trends which are anticipated to have a material effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations in the near future.

    (e)           Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

    None.

     

    - 36 -


    (f)           Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

    The following table lists as of January 31, 2012 information with respect to the Company’s known contractual obligations:

        Payments due by period ($000’s)  
      Total     Less than     1 – 3 years     3 – 5 years     More than  
    Contractual Obligations         1 year                 5 years  
    Trade payables and accrued liabilities $ 1,679   $ 1,679   $ -   $ -   $ -  
    Long-term debt obligations   38,146     -     33,132     5,014     -  
    Environmental rehabilitation provision   25,828     828     582     538     23,880  
    Firm Commitments   2,200     2,145     55     -     -  
    Total $ 67,853   $ 4,652   $ 33,769   $ 5,552   $ 23,880  

    Long-term debt obligations (including the current portion) are comprised of long-term and convertible debt balances, are set out in this table on an undiscounted basis and include anticipated interest. Asset retirement obligation represents the undiscounted obligation at January 31, 2012. Contractual obligations of the Company in the above table exclude future option payments required to maintain the Company’s interest in certain mineral properties.

    (g)           Critical Accounting Policies

    Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Canada (IFRS as of February 1, 2010 and CGAAP before that date) that require management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as at the date of the financial statements. Significant estimates used in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements include, amongst other things, expected economic lives of plant and equipment, anticipated costs of asset retirement obligations including the reclamation of mine site, valuation of options and share purchase warrants, and the assessment of impairment in value of long lived assets.

    Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment

    Plant and equipment are recorded at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and if applicable, accumulated impairment losses. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Company and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of a replaced part is derecognized. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the year in which they are incurred. Plant and equipment is depreciated over the estimated life of the related assets calculated on a unit of production or straight-line basis, as appropriate.

    Depreciation of plant and equipment is calculated using the cost of the asset, less its residual value, on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset. Estimated useful lives are as follows:

    Leasehold improvements Straight-line over the term of the lease
    Furniture and equipment Straight-line over 10 years
    Computers Straight-line over 5 years
    Computer software Straight-line over 1 year

    Mineral property, plant and equipment related to the NorthMet Project will begin to be amortized, mainly on a units of production basis, at the time the project commences operations. The Company conducts an annual review of residual balances, useful lives and depreciation methods utilized for mineral property, plant and equipment. Any changes in estimate that arise from this review are accounted for prospectively.

     

    - 37 -


    Impairment of Non-Financial Assets
    The carrying amounts of our non-financial assets, including mineral property, plant and equipment, are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. The recoverable amount of an asset is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. An impairment loss previously recorded is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount.

    Share-Based Payments and Share Purchase Warrants
    All share-based payment awards made to directors, employees and non-employees are measured and recognized using a fair value based method. For directors and employees, or those providing services similar to employees, the fair value of the award is measured at the date of the grant and recognized as an expense over the vesting period. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related service and non-market vesting conditions are expected to be met on the vesting date. Stock options issued to non-employees are recognized based on the fair value of the goods or services received.

    For directors, employees and non-employees, the fair value of the award is accrued and charged either to operations or mineral property, plant and equipment, with the offsetting credit to warrants and share-based payment reserve, on a graded method over the vesting period. If and when stock options are ultimately exercised or performance share units or restricted share units or restricted stock vest, the applicable amounts from the warrants and share-based payment reserve are transferred to share capital.

    We issue share purchase warrants in connection with certain equity transactions. The fair value of the warrants, as determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, is credited to the warrants and share-based payment reserve. The recorded value of share purchase warrants is transferred to share capital upon exercise.

    When we amend the terms of either share options or share purchase warrants, the incremental change in the fair value of the options or warrants due to the amendment is booked to warrant amendment expense and the warrants and share-based payment reserve.

    Provisions
    Provisions for environmental rehabilitation associated with mineral property, plant and equipment, are recognized when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recorded as finance income and costs expense.

    Upon initial recognition of provisions for environmental rehabilitation, a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related asset is recorded and amortized over the life of the asset. The estimates are based principally on legal and regulatory requirements. Following initial recognition of the environmental rehabilitation provision, the carrying amount of the liability is increased for the passage of time and adjusted for changes to the current market-based discount rate, or changes in the amount and timing of the underlying cash flows needed to settle the obligation.

    It is possible that our ultimate reclamation and closure liabilities could change as a result of changes in regulations, changes in the extent of environmental remediation required, changes in the means of reclamation or changes in cost estimates. Our operations may in the future be affected from time to time in varying degrees by changes in environmental regulations, including those for future removal and site restoration costs. Both the likelihood of new regulations and their overall effect upon us may vary greatly and are not predictable.

    - 38 -


    Financial Assets
    All financial assets are initially recorded at fair value and designated upon inception as one of the following four categories: held to maturity, available for sale, loans and receivables or at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”). Financial assets classified as FVTPL are measured at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recognized through profit and loss. Financial assets classified as loans and receivables and held to maturity are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method less any allowance for impairment. The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset and of allocating interest income over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts (including all fees paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset, or, where appropriate, a shorter period. Financial assets classified as available for sale are measured at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive loss except when there is objective evidence that the asset is impaired, the cumulative loss that had been recognized in other comprehensive loss shall be reclassified from equity to profit or loss as a reclassification adjustment. Transactions costs associated with FVTPL financial assets are expensed as incurred, while transaction costs associated with all other financial assets are included in the initial carrying amount of the asset.

    Financial Liabilities and Equity Instruments
    Financial liabilities are recognized when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial liabilities at amortized cost include trade payables and long term debt. Trade payables are initially recognized at the amount required to be paid, less, when material, a discount to reduce the payables to fair value. Subsequently, trade payables are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Long term debt is recognized initially at fair value, net of any transaction costs incurred, and subsequently at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Financial liabilities are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within twelve months. Otherwise, they are presented as non-current liabilities.

    All financial liabilities are initially recorded at fair value and designated upon inception as FVTPL or other financial liabilities. Financial liabilities classified as other financial liabilities are initially recognized at fair value less directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments through the expected life of the financial liability. Financial liabilities classified as FVTPL include financial liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as FVTPL. Derivatives, including separated embedded derivatives, are also classified as held for trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments. Transaction costs on financial liabilities classified as FVTPL are expensed as incurred. At the end of each reporting period subsequent to initial recognition, financial liabilities at FVTPL are measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized directly in profit or loss in the period in which they arise. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss excludes any interest paid on the financial liabilities.

    - 39 -


    ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

    A.           Directors and Senior Management

    Each Director serves until the next annual general meeting of shareholders or until his/her successor is duly elected, unless his/her office is vacated in accordance with our Articles of Incorporation.

    Vacancies on the Board of Directors are filled by election from nominees chosen by the remaining Directors and the persons filling those vacancies will hold office until the next annual general meeting of shareholders, at which time they may be re-elected or replaced. (For more details on the process for nominating directors, see our Nominations Committee Charter, referenced hereto as Exhibit 11.2. )

    The following is a list of the names and ages of our directors and executive officers:

    Name   Age   Position
    W. Ian L. Forrest   73   Co-Chairman, Independent Director
    Frank L. Sims   61  

    Co-Chairman, Independent Director

    Joseph Scipioni   58  

    Director, President, and Chief Executive

    Douglas J. Newby   53  

    Officer

    Bradley H. Moore   51  

    Chief Financial Officer

    Niall Moore 50

    Executive Vice President, Environmental & Governmental Affairs Corporate Secretary and Group Controller

    David Dreisinger   54  

    Independent Director

    Alan R. Hodnik   52  

    Independent Director

    William Murray   63  

    Director

    Stephen Rowland   50  

    Independent Director

    Michael M. Sill   50  

    Independent Director

    W. Ian L. Forrest has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2003, and as our Co-Chair since January 2011. Mr. Forrest previously served as Chairman of our board until February 5, 2008. He also serves on our audit, compensation, and nominating and corporate governance committees. Having played an important role in our revival in 2003, he was appointed Chairman in May 2004. Mr. Forrest is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland and continues to practice as a public accountant in Geneva, Switzerland. Mr. Forrest has more than 30 years of experience with public companies in the resource sector. His experience encompasses the areas of promotion, financing, exploration, production and company management. He has also participated in several notable projects including Gulfstream's North Dome gas discovery, Qatar, Reunion Mining's Scorpion zinc, Namibia, which was subsequently developed by Anglo American, and Ocean Diamond Mining, which pioneered the independent diamond dredging industry off the west coast of southern Africa. He also served as a director of MGold Resources Inc. until October, 2011 and Belmore Resources (Holdings) plc until July, 2011 when it was acquired by Lundin Mining Ltd. He currently serves on the boards of Georex SA and Poros SAS. Mr. Forrest was a director of Viatrade plc, which was put into receivership in August 2009. Mr. Forrest currently resides in Vaud, Switzerland.

    Frank L. Sims has served as a member of our board of directors since February 2008, and as our Co-Chair since January 2011. He also serves on our audit, compensation, and nominating and corporate governance committees. Mr. Sims has held a series of progressively senior positions with Cargill, Incorporated between 1972 and his retirement in December 2007. Most recently he served as Corporate Vice President. Minnesota-headquartered Cargill is an international provider of food, agricultural and risk management products and services. Mr. Sims currently serves on the board of Piper Jaffray Companies. Mr. Sims has previously served on the board of Tennant Company, as Vice-Chair of the U.S. Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council, was a Chairman of the board of the North American Export Grain Association, and as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Mr. Sims currently resides in Georgia, United States.

    - 40 -


    Joseph Scipioni has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since February 5, 2008 and as a member of our board of directors since February 19, 2008. He also serves on our safety, health and environmental committee. Mr. Scipioni served as our Chief Operating Officer since March 2007 and as General Manager of our Minnesota operations since July 2006. Prior to June 2006, Mr. Scipioni's career spanned more than 30 years with United States Steel Corporation where he worked in a number of progressively senior positions in operations. His last position was Plant Manager at the Keewatin Taconite plant in Minnesota. Mr. Scipioni is an active advisor to the University of Minnesota Natural Resources Research Institute based in Duluth, Minnesota, is an officer of the Minnesota Section of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME), and serves as an executive officer of Mining Minnesota. Mr. Scipioni currently resides in Minnesota, United States.

    Douglas J. Newby has served as our Chief Financial Officer since November 2005. Mr. Newby has nearly 30 years of experience in the evaluation and financing of mining companies and projects around the world. Before coming to PolyMet, Mr. Newby served variously as a Director, Executive Vice President, interim Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Western Goldfields, Inc. (now New Gold, Inc.) a US-based gold mining company. Mr. Newby has also been President of Proteus Capital Corp., a corporate advisory firm that specializes in the natural resource industries, since July 2001. Mr. Newby served as Managing Director of Proteus Consultants Ltd. from January 1991 to July 2001 and Managing Partner of Moyes Newby & Co., Inc. from April 1994 to December 1998, both of which provided corporate advisory services primarily to the international energy and mining industries. Since June 2011 Mr. Newby has served as a director of Coronet Metals, Inc., a Canadian company developing a gold mine in Peru. From January 2004 to March 2006, Mr. Newby served as Vice-President of Cadence Resources Corporation, an oil and gas exploration and development company. Prior to January 1991, Mr. Newby held senior positions with the investment banking firms of S.G. Warburg & Co., Inc., Morgan Grenfell & Co., and James Capel & Co. Mr. Newby currently resides in New York, United States.

    Bradley C. Moore has served as our Executive Vice President, Environmental & Government Affairs since January 24, 2011. Mr. Moore has nearly 30 years experience in government and regulatory positions. He served as Commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency from 2006 to 2008, and as Assistant Commissioner for Operations of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) from January 1999 to August 2006. Prior to that, he worked in leadership and policy analyst positions with the MDNR and the Minnesota Department of Public Service (now the Department of Commerce). In December 2008, Mr. Moore joined Barr Engineering as Senior Advisor, Public and Governmental Affairs where he advised several companies, including PolyMet, on environmental strategy. Mr. Moore currently resides in Minnesota, United States.

    Niall Moore has served as our Corporate Secretary since December 2006 and as our Group Controller since September 2006. Mr. Moore has over 25 years of experience with public companies in the resource sector. From November 2002 to May 2006, he was Director, Corporate Reporting for Placer Dome Inc. (“Placer”) and from May 2006 until December 2006 he worked as a consultant to Barrick Gold, Inc. following that company’s acquisition of Placer. Prior to November 2002, Mr. Moore was an audit partner at Ernst & Young LLP. Mr. Moore has extensive experience in financial reporting, compliance and valuation work. Mr. Moore currently resides in British Columbia, Canada.

    Dr. David Dreisinger has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2003. Dr. Dreisinger also served on our audit committee prior to June 2006. Currently, Dr. Dreisinger is the chair of our safety, health and environmental committee. Since 1988, Dr. Dreisinger has been a member of the faculty at the University of British Columbia in the Department of Materials Engineering and is currently Professor and Chairholder of the Industrial Research and Chair in Hydrometallurgy. He has published over 200 papers and has been extensively involved as a process consultant in industrial research programs with metallurgical companies. Dr. Dreisinger has participated in 14 U.S. patents for work in areas such as pressure leaching, ion exchange removal of impurities from process solutions, use of thiosulfate as an alternative to cyanide in gold leaching, and leach-electrolysis treatment of copper recovery from sulfide ores, and the Sepon Copper Process for copper recovery from sulfidic-clayey ores. Dr. Dreisinger serves as a director of Search Minerals, Inc. and as Vice President – Metallurgy/Process for each of Baja Mining Corp and South American Silver Corp. Dr. Dreisinger currently resides in British Columbia, Canada.

    - 41 -


    Alan R. Hodnik has served as a member of our board of directors since March 9, 2011. He also serves on our compensation committee and our corporate governance and nominating committee. Mr. Hodnik was named President of ALLETE, Inc. in May 2009, CEO in May 2010, and Chairman of that company in May 2011. Since joining ALLETE in 1982, Mr. Hodnik has served as Vice President-Generation Operations, Senior Vice President of Minnesota Power Operations, and Chief Operating Officer. As Chief Operating Officer, he led transmission, distribution, generation, and engineering for all aspects of the Company. Mr. Hodnik was the elected mayor of the City of Aurora, Minnesota from 1988 to 1998. He is a member of the board of Essentia Health - East Region and of the Area Partnership for Economic Expansion (APEX). Mr. Hodnik currently resides in Minnesota, United States.

    William Murray served as our Executive Chairman from February 5, 2008 to December 31, 2010 and has served as a member of our board of directors since March 2003. He previously served as our President and Chief Executive Officer from March 2003 until February 2008. Mr. Murray is an engineer in the mining industry with more than 35 years of experience in construction management and project evaluation in North America and Africa. From April 1993 to 2003, Mr. Murray provided consulting services to the mining industry as a principal of Optimum Project Services Ltd. Prior to that, Mr. Murray was employed by Fluor Daniel, a large U.S. Engineering & Construction contractor, as the Director of New Business from October 1989 to April 1993. From September 1981 to May 1986, Mr. Murray was a Director of Project Services at Denison Mines where he was part of the core team than built the $1.2 billion Quintette Coal project. From September 1970 to August 1981, Mr. Murray held a number of positions at Anglo American Corp in South Africa, principally in the Gold Division. Mr. Murray is also a director of South American Silver Corp., Aura Minerals, Inc., and Prospero Silver Corp. Mr. Murray currently resides in British Columbia, Canada.

    Stephen Rowland has served as a member of our board of directors since October 30, 2008. He also serves on our audit and compensation committees. Mr. Rowland has been an executive with Glencore, a privately held diversified natural resources company, since 1988. Mr. Rowland has held various positions with responsibility for international trading in metals and minerals in London, Switzerland, and the United States. Prior to joining Glencore, Mr. Rowland started his career in 1985 with Cargill, Inc. in Minneapolis. Mr. Rowland currently resides in Connecticut, United States.

    Michael M. Sill has served as a member of our board of directors since March 9, 2011. He also serves on our audit committee and our safety, health and environmental committee. Mr. Sill has served as President and CEO of Road Machinery & Supplies Co. since 1994, having joined the company in 1988. Road Machinery is a distributor of construction, mining and forestry equipment. Educated at Dartmouth College and J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Mr. Sill started his career as a financial analyst and commercial lending officer with The Northern Trust Company. He has served on the boards of the Associated Equipment Distributors, Associated General Contractors of Minnesota, and the Twin Cities Regional Board of US Bank. Mr. Sill currently resides in Minnesota, United States.

    - 42 -


    B.           Statement of Executive Compensation

    The following table sets forth the compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012:

          Pension, Bonus Shares  
      Salaries Options / Retirement    
      Commissions Restricted and Similar   Total
      and Bonuses Stock Units Benefits(1)   Compensation
               
    Joseph Scipioni, -
    President and Chief Executive Officer

    $275,100

    $61,200

    $14,696

    $nil

    $350,996
    Douglas Newby - Chief Financial Officer $247,535 $91,800 $7,425 $nil $346,760
    Niall Moore, Corporate Secretary $177,670 $36,720 $nil $nil $214,390

    (1)    Balances represent Company contributions under 401k pension plans.

    During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012, we had three Named Executive Officers (“NEOs”) (for the purposes of applicable securities legislation), namely:

      (a)

    Joseph Scipioni, President and Chief Executive Officer;

         
      (b)

    Douglas Newby, Chief Financial Officer, and

         
      (c)

    Niall Moore, Corporate Secretary.

    Other than the arrangements noted in the table below, during the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012, no compensation was paid or is payable by us to the directors of the Company, other than the NEOs (the “Other Directors”), or our subsidiaries, if any, for their services in their capacity as directors, including any amounts payable for committee participation or special assignments;

    Name of Director
    Director’s Fees
    Options/Restricted
    Stock Units
    Total Compensation
    David Dreisinger
    W. Ian L. Forrest
    Alan R. Hodnik
    William Murray
    Stephen Rowland
    Michael M. Sill
    Frank Sims
    40,000
    50,000
    30,000
    40,000
    -
    35,000
    50,000
    -
    -
    167,626
    71,400
    -
    167,626
    167,626
    40,000
    50,000
    197,626
    111,400
    -
    202,626
    217,626

    During the quarter ended January 31, 2012, we sold a used drill for $3.68 million. A company controlled by one of our Directors, Michael M. Sill, received a commission of $200,000 related to this sale.

    The Company has no pension plan or other arrangement for non-cash compensation to the Other Directors.

    C.           Board Practices

    All of our directors hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders and until their successors have been elected and qualified. Our officers are elected by the Board of Directors at the first Board of Directors meeting after each annual meeting of shareholders and hold office until death, resignation, or upon removal from office.

    - 43 -


    None of our directors have service contracts with us providing for benefits upon termination of their employment.

    Our Audit Committee consists of W. Ian L. Forrest (Chair), Stephen Rowland, Michael M. Sill, and Frank L. Sims, all of whom are independent directors. All four members of the Audit Committee meet the criteria of an “Audit Committee Financial Expert” under the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC and such designation has been ratified by the Board of Directors. The Audit Committee oversees our auditing procedures, receives and accepts the reports of our independent certified public accountants, oversees our internal systems of accounting and management controls, and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors as to the selection and appointment of our auditors. The Audit Committee is governed by the terms of the Charter of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors which has previously been filed as Exhibit 16.1.

    Our Compensation Committee consists of W. Ian L. Forrest (Chair), Alan R. Hodnik, Stephen Rowland, and Frank L. Sims. The function of the Compensation Committee is to administer the 2007 PolyMet Omnibus Share Compensation Plan and to have authority over the salaries, bonuses, and other compensation arrangements of our executive officers.

    Our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee consists of Frank L. Sims (Chair), W. Ian L. Forrest, and Alan R. Hodnik. The committee (1) identifies individuals qualified to become members of the Board, (2) selects, or recommends to the Board, the director nominees for the next annual shareholders meeting, (3) selects candidates to fill any vacancies on the Board, and (4) develops and recommends to the Board a set of corporate governance principles applicable to PolyMet.

    D. Employees

    As of January 31, 2012 we had 18 full-time employees, with 2 located in our Vancouver office and 16 located in our Hoyt Lakes office. None of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We believe that our relations with our employees are good.

    During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012, we employed an average of 4 consultants working out of our Vancouver and Minnesota offices.

    E. Share Ownership

    For the shareholdings of our directors and executive officers see Item 7(A).

    - 44 -


    ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

    A.           Officers, Directors and Major Shareholders

    The following table sets forth, as of April 24, 2012, certain information regarding the ownership of our voting securities by each shareholder known to our management to be (i) the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our outstanding common shares, (ii) our directors, (iii) our current executive officers identified under Item 6(A), and (iv) all executive officers and directors as a group. We believe that, except as otherwise indicated, the beneficial owners of the common shares listed below, based on information furnished by such owners, have sole investment and voting power with respect to such shares.

        Amount and Nature of    
        Beneficial Ownership    
        (includes shares, vested    
        options and warrants, and    
        restricted shares for   Percent of
    Name and Address of   which the holder has   Outstanding
    Beneficial Owner (1)   voting rights)   Common Shares
             
    W. Ian L. Forrest (2)   2,453,000   1.38%
             
    Frank Sims (3)   1,196,124   0.67%
             
    Joseph Scipioni (4)   780,000   0.44%
             
    Douglas J. Newby (5)   1,260,000   0.71%
             
    Bradley C. Moore (6)   200,000   0.11%
             
    Niall Moore (7)   525,000   0.29%
             
    David Dreisinger (8)   1,426,300   0.80%
             
    Alan R. Hodnik (9)   450,000   0.25%
             
    William Murray (10)   3,146,976   1.76%
             
    Stephen Rowland (11)   250,000   0.14%
             
    Michael M. Sill (12)   450,000   0.25%
             
    Total executive officers and directors as a group (11 persons) (13) 12,137,400 6.59%
             
    5% or more shareholders:        
             
    Glencore (14)
    Baarermattstrasse 3
    CH-6341 Baar
    Switzerland



    72,078,038





    34.71%



    1.

    The address of each person, unless otherwise noted, is c/o PolyMet Mining Corp., Suite 390- 3600 Lysander Lane, Richmond, British Columbia V7B 1C3.

       
    2.

    Includes 1,528,000 common shares owned in the name of Micor Trading SA of which Mr. Forrest is a director and has voting and dispositive control, 375,000 common shares owned in the name of Panares Resources Inc. of which he is a director and has voting and dispositive control, 150,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$1.36 per share set to expire on September 19, 2012, 250,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$2.76 per share set to expire on March 20, 2013, and 150,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $0.82 per share set to expire on February 17, 2016.

    - 45 -



    3.

    Includes 346,124 common shares directly owned by Mr. Sims, 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $2.72 per share set to expire on February 15, 2015, 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $0.82 per share set to expire on February 17, 2016, 250,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $2.04 per share set to expire on March 10, 2018, and 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $1.19 per share set to expire on March 8, 2019. In addition, Mr. Sims holds currently un-exercisable options to acquire 200,000 common shares at an exercise price of $2.72 per share set to expire on February 15, 2015,

       
    4.

    Includes 50,000 common shares directly owned by Mr. Scipioni and 30,000 restricted common shares for which he has voting power but does not currently have dispositive control, 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$2.97 per share set to expire on June 19, 2013, 300,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$3.30 per share set to expire on January 5, 2014, and 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $0.82 per share set to expire on February 17, 2016. In addition, Mr. Scipioni holds currently un-exercisable options to acquire 250,000 common shares at an exercise price of $2.92 per share set to expire on March 12, 2014 and 100,000 common shares at an exercise price of $2.72 per share set to expire on February 15, 2015,

       
    5.

    Includes 165,000 common shares held in the name of Proteus Capital Corp. of which Mr. Newby is the President and controlling shareholder, 45,000 restricted common shares for which he has voting power but does not currently have dispositive control, 100,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$1.15 per share set to expire on December 5, 2012, 500,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$2.76 per share set to expire on March 20, 2013, 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $1.19 per share set to expire on March 8, 2019 in Mr. Newby’s name; and 40,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$0.94 per share set to expire on June 15, 2012, and 210,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$1.36 per share set to expire on September 19, 2012 held in the name of Proteus Capital Corp.

       
    6.

    includes 100,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $2.17 per share set to expire on January 25, 2018 and 100,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $1.19 per share set to expire on March 8, 2019. In addition, Mr. Moore holds currently un-exercisable options to acquire 200,000 common shares at an exercise price of $2.17 per share set to expire on January 25, 2018.

       
    7.

    Includes 275,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$3.82 per share set to expire on September 1, 2013, 175,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$3.30 per share set to expire on January 5, 2014, and 75,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $0.82 per share set to expire on January 30, 2016. In addition, Mr. Moore has the right, upon certain milestones, to receive 18,000 common shares issuable under Restricted Stock Units for which he currently has neither voting nor dispositive rights.

       
    8.

    Includes 876,300 common shares directly owned by Dr. Dreisinger, 150,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$1.36 per share set to expire on September 19, 2012, 250,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$2.76 per share set to expire on March 20, 2013, and 150,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $0.82 per share set to expire on February 17, 2016.

    - 46 -



    9.

    Includes 250,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of USD $2.04 per share set to expire on March 10, 2018, and 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $1.19 per share set to expire on March 8, 2019.

       
    10.

    Includes 1,209,800 common shares directly owned by Mr. Murray and 987,176 common shares held in the name of Group 4 Ventures of which he is the sole shareholder, 300,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$1.36 per share set to expire on September 19, 2012, 450,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of CDN$2.76 per share set to expire on March 20, 2013, and 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $0.82 per share set to expire on February 17, 2016. In addition, Mr. Murray has the right, upon certain milestones, to receive 35,000 common shares issuable under Restricted Stock Units for which he currently has neither voting nor dispositive rights.

       
    11.

    Includes 250,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $1.19 per share set to expire on March 8, 2019.

       
    12.

    Includes 250,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of USD $2.04 per share set to expire on March 10, 2018 and 200,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options at an exercise price of $1.19 per share set to expire on March 8, 2019.

       
    13.

    Includes 5,612,400 common shares owned, 6,525,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of options, and 75,000 restricted common shares for which the holder has voting power but does not currently have dispositive control. Does not include 53,000 common shares issuable under Restricted Stock Units for which the holder currently has neither voting nor dispositive rights nor currently un-exercisable options to acquire 750,000 common shares.

       
    14.

    This shareholder acquired 9,433,962 of our common shares from us during our fiscal 2010 fourth quarter, 5,000,000 of our common shares from us during our fiscal 2011 fourth quarter, 5,000,000 of our common shares from us during our fiscal 2012 second quarter, and 13,333,333 of our common shares from us during our fiscal 2012 fourth quarter. This shareholder acquired 9,200,547 of our common shares from Cliffs on July 15, 2011 and also holds $25 million initial principal debentures exchangeable into 19,510,196 of our common shares (including interest capitalized at March 31, 2012) and warrants to acquire 5,600,000 of our common shares at $1.50 per share.

    Our shareholder who beneficially owns more than 5% of our common shares outstanding does not have voting rights different from any other shareholders of common shares.

    As of April 24, 2012, there were 346 holders of record of our common shares of which 266 were U.S. residents owning 20.46% of our outstanding common shares.

    - 47 -


    B. Related Party Transactions

    We have conducted transactions with officers, directors and persons or companies related to directors and paid or accrued amounts as follows:

          2012     2011     2010  
          (in $'000's )   (in $'000's )   (in $'000's )
                         
      Consulting fees paid to Dr. Dreisinger, a Director of the Company $  nil   $  59   $  59  
        $  nil   $  59   $  59  

    The amounts charged to us for the services provided have been determined by negotiation among the parties. These transactions were in the normal course of operations and were measured at the exchange value, which is the amount of consideration established and agreed to by the related party.

    During the year ended January 31, 2012, we paid $nil (2011 - $59,000 and 2010 - $59,000) to Dr. Dreisinger for consulting fees primarily in connection with activities related to the processing / technical side of the NorthMet Project and related expenses (the latter were supported by invoices and receipts). The consulting fees were based on a monthly fee of Canadian $5,500 plus general sales tax. Throughout the term of his engagement, Dr. Dreisinger has conducted in-person and telephonic meetings with Mr. William Murray, the Company’s then Executive Chairman and formerly its President and Chief Executive Officer, and other members of management at which he provided both verbal and written updates on the status of test work and made recommendations for future activities. These meetings occurred approximately every two to three weeks for the past six years.

    The agreement with Dr. Dreisinger was entered into at a time when our current business plans were being formulated and were month to month and oral in nature. The agreement was approved by Mr. William Murray. It was discussed with our board of directors who did not consider that formal approval and a written contract was necessary at that time. We believe that the contract was negotiated on terms at least as good as could be obtained from third parties.

    During the quarter ended January 31, 2012, we sold a used drill rig for $3.680 million. A company controlled by one of our Directors, Michael M. Sill, received a commission of $200,000 related to this sale.

    C. Interests of experts and counsel.

    Not applicable.

    ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

    A.           Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

    See Item 18.

    Legal Proceedings

    Neither we, nor our subsidiaries, is a party to, nor is our property or the property of our subsidiaries the subject of, any pending legal or arbitration proceeding that is material.

    Dividend Policy

    Since our incorporation, we have not declared or paid, and have no present intention to declare or to pay in the foreseeable future, any cash dividends with respect to our common shares. Earnings will be retained to finance further growth and development of our business. However, if our board of directors declares dividends, all common shares will participate equally, and, in the event of liquidation, in our net assets.

    - 48 -


    B.           Significant Changes

    On February 1, 2012 we reported on the status of the NorthMet environmental review. ERM, the Lead Agencies' environmental consultant, has completed a significant amount of work on the SDEIS, which will comprise nine chapters. The first four chapters, comprising over 400 pages and including more than 100 figures, have been drafted and are being reviewed by the Lead Agencies.

    Other important milestones already achieved include:

    As SDEIS preparation moves into the final stages, the Lead Agencies have completed a detailed assessment of tasks outstanding and the timeline. The key task is completion of detailed environmental modeling, including quality assurance plans as well as generation, verification, review, and documentation of modeling data.

    The Lead Agencies expect that all aspects of modeling will be completed in the spring of 2012, with the preliminary SDEIS available for review by the Cooperating Agencies during the summer, and public review and comment in the fall of 2012.

    On March 9, 2012 PolyMet acquired control of land that it plans to restore to wetlands through an agreement with AG for Waterfowl, LLP ("AG"). PolyMet paid AG $2.0 million cash and issued 2,788,902 of its common shares and a warrant to purchase 1,083,333 of its common shares at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015 as consideration for the purchase of a $5.9 million face value five year zero interest rate mortgage over land currently in agricultural use that AG will restore to wetlands in order to create wetland credits. The mortgage will be partially released as part of the lands are fully restored to approved wetland status, at which time PolyMet will receive formal wetland credits. Any lands that PolyMet has not requested be restored to wetland, will revert to AG and the remaining mortgage, if any, will be released on February 28, 2017. PolyMet is committed to pay AG an additional $680,000 over seven years and will release part of the mortgage.

    - 49 -


    ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

    A.           The Offer and Listing Details

    The following table outlines the annual high and low market prices for the five most recent fiscal years:

    The following table outlines the high and low market prices for each fiscal financial quarter for the two most recent fiscal periods:

    The following table outlines the high and low market prices for each of the most recent six months and April 2012 to-date:

    B.           Plan of Distribution

    Not applicable.

    - 50 -


    C.           Markets

    In April 1984, our common shares commenced trading on what is now the TSX Venture Exchange in British Columbia, Canada under the symbol "POM.” On February 1, 2007, our common shares graduated to trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange in British Columbia under the symbol “POM”. In August 2000, our common shares began trading on the OTCBB under the symbol “POMGF.” On June 26, 2006, our common shares commenced trading on what is now the NYSE Amex under the symbol “PLM.”

    D.           Selling Shareholders

    Not applicable.

    E.           Dilution

    Not applicable.

    F.           Expenses of the Issue

    Not applicable.

    ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    A.           Share Capital

    Not Applicable.

    B.           Memorandum and Articles of Association

    Incorporation

    We were incorporated under the name Fleck Resources Ltd. pursuant to the Companies Act (British Columbia) and continued under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) by registration of our memorandum in British Columbia, Canada, under Certificate of Incorporation #BC0228310 on March 4, 1981. We changed our name to PolyMet Mining Corp. on June 10, 1998. We do not have any stated “objects” or “purposes” as such that are not required by the corporate laws of the Province of British Columbia. Rather, we are, by such corporate laws, entitled to carry on any activities whatsoever that are not specifically precluded by other statutory provisions of the Province of British Columbia.

    Powers and Functions of the Directors

    The powers and functions of the directors are set forth in our Articles, the current version of which were adopted on October 6, 2004, and in the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). They provide that:

    (a)

    a director who holds office or possesses any property, right, or interest that could result, directly or indirectly, in the creation of a duty of interest that materially conflicts with his duty or interest as a director must disclose the nature and extent of the conflict and abstain from voting on the approval of the proposed contract or transaction, unless all the directors have a disclosable interest, in which case the director may vote on such resolution, and moreover, may be liable to account to us for any profit that accrued under such an interest contract or transaction;

       
    (b)

    a director is not deemed to be interested in a proposed contract or transaction merely because it relates to the remuneration of a director in that capacity. The directors may, in the absence of an independent quorum, vote compensation to themselves;

       
    (c)

    there are no specific limitations on the exercise by the directors of our borrowing powers;

    - 51 -



    (d)

    there are no provisions for the retirement or non-retirement of directors under an age limit, and

       
    (e)

    there is no requirement for a director to hold any shares in us.

    Rights and Restrictions Attached to the Shares

    As all of our authorized and issued shares are of one class of common shares, there are no special rights or restrictions of any nature or kind attached to any of the shares, including any dividend rights. All authorized and issued shares rank equally in respect to the declaration and receipt of dividends and rights to share in any profits or surplus upon our liquidation, dissolution or winding-up. Each share has attached to it one non-cumulative vote. Shareholders are not liable to further capital calls made by us. There is no specific sinking fund provision or any provision discriminating against any existing or prospective holder of shares as a result of such shareholder owning a substantial number of shares.

    Alteration of Share Rights

    The rights of holders of our issued common shares may be altered by special resolution, which requires the approval of the holders of two-thirds or more of the votes cast at a meeting of our shareholders called and held in accordance with applicable law.

    Annual General Meetings

    Annual General Meetings are called and scheduled upon decision by the Board of Directors. Pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia), we are required to hold an annual meeting in each year, not more than 15 months after the date of the most recent annual meeting. The directors may call a meeting of the shareholders whenever they see fit. All meetings of the shareholders may be attended by registered shareholders or persons who hold powers of attorney or proxies given to them by registered shareholders.

    Foreign Ownership Limitations

    Our Articles and other charter documents do not contain limitations prohibiting non-residents, foreigners or any other group from holding or voting shares.

    Change of Control

    There are no provisions in our Articles or charter documents that currently have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in the control in us, or that would operate with respect to any proposed merger, acquisition or corporate restructuring involving us or any of our subsidiaries.

    Share Ownership Reporting Obligations

    There are no provisions in our Articles requiring share ownership to be disclosed.

    Securities legislation in Canada requires that shareholder ownership must be disclosed once a person owns beneficially or has control or direction, directly or indirectly, over greater than 10% of the issued voting shares of a corporation, such as us. This threshold is higher than the 5% threshold under U.S. securities legislation at which shareholders must report their share ownership.

    - 52 -


    C.           Material Contracts

    The following is a summary of each material contract, other than contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business, to which we or any member of the group is a party, for the two years preceding the date of this document.

    Asset Purchase Agreements

    For a complete description of the acquisition of the mine site lease, see Item 4(D)(c)(i).

    For a complete description of the acquisition of the Erie Plant and associated infrastructure acquired in the Asset Purchase Agreements I and II, see Item 4(D)(c)(ii).

    Share Purchase Agreement

    For a complete description of the stock purchase agreement entered into with Glencore AG, see Item 5(B).

    D.           Exchange Controls

    There are no governmental laws, decrees or regulations in Canada relating to restrictions on the export or import of capital, or affecting remittance of interest, dividends or other payments to non-resident holders of our common shares. Any remittances of dividends to United States residents are, however, subject to a 15% withholding tax (5% if the shareholder is a company owning at least 10% of the outstanding common shares) pursuant to the reciprocal tax treaty between Canada and the United States. See the section of this Form 20-F entitled “Taxation.”

    Except as provided in the Investment Canada Act (the “ICA”), which has provisions which govern the acquisition of a control block of voting shares by a person who is not a Canadian resident (a “non-Canadian”) of a company carrying on a Canadian business, there are no limitations specific to the rights of non-Canadians to hold or vote the common shares under the laws of Canada or the Province of British Columbia or in our charter documents.

    E.           Taxation

    The following summary of the material Canadian federal income tax considerations generally applicable to our common shares reflects our opinion. The tax consequences to any particular holder of common shares will vary according to the status of that holder as an individual, trust, corporation, or member of a partnership, the jurisdiction in which that holder is subject to taxation, the place where that holder is resident and, generally, according to that holder’s particular circumstances. This summary is applicable only to holders who are residents of the United States, have never been a resident of Canada, deal at arm’s length with us, hold their common shares as capital property, and who will not use or hold the common shares in carrying on business in Canada. Special rules, which are not discussed in this summary, may apply to a United States holder that is an issuer that carries on business in Canada and elsewhere.

    This summary is based upon the provisions of the Income Tax Act of Canada and the regulations thereunder (collectively, the “Tax Act, or ITA”) and the Canada-United States Tax Convention as amended by the Protocols thereto (the “Tax Convention”) as of the date of the Annual Report and the current administrative practices of Revenue Canada, Customs, Excise and Taxation. This summary does not take into account Canadian provincial income tax consequences.

    This summary is not exhaustive of all possible income tax consequences. It is not intended as legal or tax advice to any particular holder of our common shares and should not be so construed. Each holder should consult his own tax advisor with respect to the income tax consequences applicable to him in his own particular circumstances.

    - 53 -


    North American Free Trade Agreement (Canada). The Investment Act was amended with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to provide for special review thresholds for Americans (including “American-controlled “entities” as defined in the Investment Act). Under the Investment Act, as amended, an investment in our common shares by an American would be reviewable only if it was an investment to acquire control of us and the value of our assets was equal to or greater than a specified amount (the “Review Threshold”), which increases in stages. The Review Threshold is currently $150 million.

    Disposition of Common Shares. If a non-resident of Canada were to dispose of our common shares to a Canadian corporation which deals or is deemed to deal on a non-arm’s length basis with the non-resident and that, and immediately after the disposition is connected with us (i.e. holds shares representing more than 10% of the voting power and more than 10% of the market value of all of our shares issued and outstanding), the amount by which the fair market value of any consideration (other than any shares of the purchaser corporation) exceeds the paid-up capital of the common shares sold will be deemed to be taxable as a dividend paid by the purchasing corporation, either immediately or eventually by means of a deduction in computing the paid-up capital of the purchasing corporation, and subject to withholding taxes as described below.

    Under the Tax Act, a gain from the sale of common shares by a non-resident will not be subject to Canadian tax, provided the shareholder (and/or persons who do not deal at arm’s length with the shareholder) has not held a “substantial interest” in us (25% or more of any class of our shares) at any time in the five years preceding the disposition. Generally, the Tax Convention will exempt from Canadian taxation any capital gain realized by a resident of the United States, provided that the value of the common shares is not derived principally from real property situated in Canada.

    Dividend. In the case of any dividends paid to non-residents, we withhold the Canadian tax and remit only the net amount to the shareholder. By virtue of Article X of the Tax Convention, the rate of tax on dividends paid to residents of the United States is generally limited to 15% of the gross dividend (or 5% in the case of certain corporate shareholders owning at least 10% of our voting shares upon ratification of the Protocol amending the treaty. In the absence of the Tax Convention provisions, the rate of Canadian withholding tax imposed on non-residents is 25% of the gross dividend. Share dividends received by non-residents from us are taxable by Canada as ordinary dividends and therefore the withholding tax rates will be applicable.

    Where a holder disposes of common shares to us (unless we acquired the common shares in the open market in the manner in which shares would normally be purchased by any member of the public), this will result in a deemed dividend to the U.S. holder equal to the amount by which the consideration we paid exceeds the paid-up capital of such shares. The amount of such dividend will be subject to withholding tax as described above.

    Capital Gains. A non-resident of Canada is not subject to tax under the ITA in respect of a capital gain realized upon the disposition of a share of a class that is listed on a prescribed stock exchange unless the share represents “taxable Canadian property” to the holder thereof. Our common shares will be taxable Canadian property to a non-resident holder if, at any time during the period of five years immediately preceding the disposition, the non-resident holder, persons with whom the non-resident holder did not deal at arm’s length, or the non-resident holder and persons with whom he/she did not deal at arm’s length owned 25% or more of our issued shares of any class or series. In the case of a nonresident holder to whom our shares represent taxable Canadian property and who is resident of the United States, no Canadian tax will be payable on a capital gain realized on such shares by reason of the Tax Convention unless the value of such shares is derived principally from real property situated in Canada or the non-resident holder previously held the shares while resident in Canada. We believe that the value of our common shares is not derived from real property situated inside Canada.

    Certain United States Federal Income Tax Consequences. The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant with respect to the ownership and disposition of our common shares by a U.S. Holder (as hereinafter defined). This discussion is based upon the provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, administrative rulings and judicial decisions, in each case as of the date hereof. These authorities are subject to differing interpretations and may be changed, perhaps retroactively, resulting in U.S. federal income tax consequences different from those discussed below. We have not sought any ruling from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in this discussion, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will agree with such statements and conclusions. This discussion applies only to U.S. Holders who hold our common shares as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. In addition, this summary does not address all U.S. federal income tax considerations that may be applicable to a U.S. Holder’s particular circumstances or to U.S. Holders who may be subject to special tax rules, including, without limitation: tax-exempt organizations, qualified retirement plans, individual retirement accounts and other tax-deferred accounts, financial institutions, insurance companies, partnerships or other entities treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, broker-dealers, non-resident alien individuals, U.S. Holders whose “functional currency” is not the U.S. dollar, persons subject to the alternative minimum tax, persons who hold our common shares as part of a straddle, hedging or conversion transaction, and persons who own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of our common shares.

    - 54 -


    For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” means a holder of our common shares who is (i) a citizen or an individual resident of the U.S., (ii) a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the U.S., any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to.US. federal income taxation regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust if it is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the U.S. and one or more “U.S. persons,” as defined in the Code, have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

    If a partnership (or any other entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds our common shares, the tax treatment of a partner in such partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such a partner should consult its own tax advisors as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of being a partner in a partnership that holds or disposes of our common shares.

    This discussion addresses only certain aspects of U.S. federal income taxation to U.S. Holders. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal, state, local, non-U.S. and other tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common shares.

    Distributions on Our Common Shares. Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company,” U.S. Holders receiving dividend distributions (including constructive dividends) with respect to our common shares generally are required to include in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes the gross amount of such distributions (without reduction for any Canadian income or other tax withheld from such distributions), equal to the U.S. dollar value of such distributions on the date of receipt (based on the exchange rate on such date), to the extent that we have current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes). To the extent that the amount of the distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, it will be treated as a return of capital to the extent of a U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in our common shares and thereafter as capital gain from the sale or exchange of such common shares. We do not intend to calculate our earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles. Therefore, a U.S. Holder should expect that the full amount of a distribution with respect to the common shares will be treated, and reported by us, as a dividend.

    For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011, dividends received by U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts from a “qualified foreign corporation,” as defined in Section 1(h)(11) of the Code, generally are taxed at the same preferential tax rates applicable to long-term capital gains. A corporation that is a “PFIC,” as defined below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company,” for its taxable year during which it pays a dividend, or for its immediately preceding taxable year, however, is not a “qualified foreign corporation.” We believe we will meet the definition of a PFIC and dividends received by U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at ordinary income tax rates (and not at the preferential tax rates applicable to long-term capital gains). Dividends paid on our common shares will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction provided to corporations receiving dividends from certain U.S. corporations.

    - 55 -


    In the case of foreign currency received as a dividend that is not converted by the recipient into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, a U.S. Holder will have a tax basis in the foreign currency equal to its U.S. dollar value on the date of receipt. Generally any gain or loss recognized upon a subsequent sale or other disposition of the foreign currency, including the exchange for U.S. dollars, will be ordinary income or loss.

    Disposition of Our Common Shares. Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company,” U.S. Holders will recognize gain or loss upon the sale of our common shares equal to the difference, if any, between (i) the amount of cash plus the fair market value of any property received, and (ii) the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in our common shares. A U.S. Holder’s tax basis in the shares generally will be equal to the amount such U.S. Holder paid for the shares, subject to adjustments. Any gain or loss on disposition of our common shares generally will be U.S. source gain or loss and will be capital gain or loss. If, at the time of the disposition, a U.S. holder is treated as holding the common shares for more than one year, such gain or loss will be a long-term capital gain or loss. Long-term capital gain recognized by a non-corporate U.S. holder is currently subject to taxation at a reduced rate. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.

    Passive Foreign Investment Company. We believe that we will meet the definition of “passive foreign investment company” (“PFIC”) within the meaning of Sections 1291 through 1298 of the Code. A U.S. Holder who holds shares in a non-U.S. corporation during any year in which such corporation is a PFIC is subject to numerous special U.S. federal income tax rules. A non-U.S. corporation is considered to be a PFIC for any taxable year if either:

    For purposes of the income test and the asset test, respectively, we will be treated as earning our proportionate share of the income and owning our proportionate share of the assets of any other corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, 25% or more (by value) of the shares. In addition, for purposes of the income test, passive income does not include any interest, dividends, rents, or royalties received or accrued by us from a “related person” (as defined in Section 954(d)(3) of the Code), to the extent such items are properly allocable to income of such related person that is not passive.

    We must make a separate determination each year as to whether we are a PFIC. As a result, our PFIC status may change. In particular, because the total value of our assets for purposes of the asset test will be calculated using the market price of our common shares (assuming that we continue to be a publicly traded corporation for purposes of the PFIC rules), our PFIC status will depend in large part on the market price of our common shares. Accordingly, fluctuations in the market price of our common shares may result in our being a PFIC for any year. If we are a PFIC for any year during which a U.S. Holder holds our common shares, we generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which such U.S. Holder holds the common shares, absent a special election. For instance, if we cease to be a PFIC, a U.S. Holder may avoid some of the adverse effects of the PFIC regime by making a deemed sale election with respect to our common shares pursuant to which such U.S. Holder recognizes gain (which will be taxed under the default PFIC tax rules discussed below) as if such common shares had been sold on the last day of the last taxable year for which we were a PFIC. If we are a PFIC for any taxable year and any of our non-U.S. subsidiaries is also a PFIC, a U.S. Holder would be treated as owning a proportionate amount (by value) of the shares of the lower-tier PFIC for purposes of the application of these rules. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors about the application of the PFIC rules to any of our subsidiaries.

    - 56 -


    If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our common shares, such U.S. Holder will be subject to special tax rules with respect to any “excess distribution” that it receives and any gain it realizes from a sale or other disposition (including a pledge) of the common shares, unless the U.S. Holder makes a “mark-to-market” election, as discussed below. Distributions received by a U.S. Holder in a taxable year that are greater than 125% of the average annual distributions such U.S. Holder received during the shorter of the three preceding taxable years and its holding period for the common shares will be treated as an excess distribution. Under these special tax rules:

    The tax liability for amounts allocated to taxable years prior to the year of disposition or “excess distribution” cannot be offset by any net operating losses for such years, and gains (but not losses) realized on the disposition of the common shares cannot be treated as capital, even if the U.S . Holder holds the common shares as capital assets.

    Alternatively, a U.S. Holder of “marketable stock” (as defined below) in a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election with respect to shares of a PFIC to elect out of the tax treatment discussed above. If a U.S. Holder makes a valid mark-to-market election for the common shares, the U.S. Holder will include in income each year an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the common shares as of the close of its taxable year over its adjusted basis in such common shares. The U.S. Holder is allowed a deduction for the excess, if any, of the adjusted basis of the common shares over their fair market value as of the close of the taxable year. However, deductions are allowable only to the extent of any net mark-to-market gains on the common shares included in the U.S. Holder’s income for prior taxable years. Amounts included in a U.S. Holder’s income under a mark-to-market election, as well as gain on the actual sale or other disposition of the common shares, are treated as ordinary income. Ordinary loss treatment also applies to the deductible portion of any mark-to-market loss on the common shares, as well as to any loss realized on the actual sale or disposition of the common shares, to the extent that the amount of such loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market gains previously included for such common shares. A U.S. Holder’s basis in the common shares will be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amounts. If a U.S. Holder makes such an election, the tax rules that ordinarily apply to distributions by corporations that are not PFICs would apply to distributions by us, except that the preferential tax rates applicable to long-term capital gains on dividends received from a “qualified foreign corporation” discussed above under “Distributions on the Common Shares” would not apply.

    Although a U.S. Holder may be eligible to make a mark-to-market election with respect to our common shares, no such election may be made with respect to the stock of any of our non-U.S. subsidiaries that is also a PFIC and that a U.S. Holder is treated as owning, because such stock is not marketable. Hence, the mark-to-market election will not be effective to eliminate the interest charge described above with respect to deemed dispositions of subsidiary PFIC stock or distributions from a subsidiary PFIC.

    The mark-to-market election is available only for “marketable stock,” which is stock that is traded in other than de minimis quantities on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter on a “qualified exchange,” including the Toronto Stock Exchange and the NYSE Amex, or other market, as defined in applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. We expect that our common shares will continue to be listed on each of the Toronto Stock Exchange and the NYSE Amex on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter and traded in other than de minimis quantities, and, consequently, the mark-to-market election would be available to U.S. Holders of common shares if we were to be a PFIC.

    - 57 -


    If a non-U.S. corporation is a PFIC, a holder of shares in that corporation can avoid taxation under the rules described above by making a “qualified electing fund” election to include the holder’s share of the corporation’s income on a current basis in gross income. However, a U.S. Holder can make a qualified electing fund election with respect to its common shares only if we furnish the U.S. Holder annually with certain tax information, and we do not intend to prepare or provide such information.

    Congress recently enacted the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (“HIRE”). Under HIRE, U.S. Holders of a PFIC are required to file an annual report containing any information that may be required by the Treasury. While these information requirements have not yet been specified by the Treasury, a U.S. Holder that holds common shares in any year in which we are a PFIC generally will be required to file IRS Form 8621 regarding distributions received on the common shares and any gain realized on the disposition of the common shares.

    U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the PFIC rules to their investment in our common shares.

    Foreign Tax Credits. Subject to certain conditions and limitations, including potential limitations under the United States-Canada treaty, Canadian taxes paid on or withheld from distributions from us and not refundable to a U.S. Holder may be, at the election of such U.S. Holder, either credited against such U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability or deducted from such U.S. Holder’s taxable income. Generally, a credit will reduce a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability on a dollar-for-dollar basis, whereas a deduction will reduce a U.S. Holder’ s income subject to U.S. federal income tax. This election is made on a year-by-year basis and applies to all foreign taxes paid by or withheld from a U.S. Holder that year.

    Complex limitations apply to the foreign tax credit, including the general limitation that the credit cannot exceed the proportionate share of a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability that such U.S. Holder’s “foreign source” taxable income bears to such U.S. Holder’s worldwide taxable income. In applying this limitation, a U.S. Holder’s various items of income and deduction must be classified, under complex rules, as either “foreign source” or “U.S. source.” In addition, this limitation is calculated separately with respect to specific categories of income. Dividends paid by us generally will constitute “foreign source” income and generally will be categorized as “passive category income.”

    Because the rules governing foreign tax credits are complex, U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of foreign tax credits in their particular circumstances.

    Information Reporting; Backup Withholding. In general, payments made in the U.S. or through certain U.S. related financial intermediaries with respect to the ownership and disposition of our common shares will be required to be reported to the IRS unless the U.S. Holder is a corporation or other exempt recipient and, when required, demonstrates this fact. In addition, a U.S. Holder may be subject to a backup withholding tax (currently at a rate of 28%) on such payments unless the U.S. Holder (i) is a corporation or other exempt recipient and when required, demonstrates this fact or (ii) provides a taxpayer identification number and otherwise timely complies with applicable certification requirements. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding their qualification for an exemption from backup withholding and the procedures for obtaining such an exemption, if applicable. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability and such U.S. Holder may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS and furnishing any required information in a timely manner.

    THE UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX DISCUSSION SET FORTH ABOVE IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY, DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE POTENTIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS RELATING TO OUR COMMON SHARES AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. U.S. HOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF OUR COMMON SHARES.

    - 58 -


    F.           Dividends and Paying Agents

    Not Applicable.

    G.           Statement by Experts

    Not Applicable.

    H.           Documents on Display

    All documents referred to in this Form 20-F are available for inspection at our registered and records office, listed below, during normal office hours.

    Farris LLP
    c/o Farris, Vaughan, Wills & Murphy LLP
    2500 - 700 W Georgia St
    Vancouver BC
    Canada V7Y 1B3

    We are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, we file reports and other information with the SEC. These materials, including this Annual Report on Form 20-F and its exhibits, may be inspected and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the SEC’s regional office at 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Copies of the materials may be obtained from the Public Reference Room of the Commission at 100 F. Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549 at prescribed rates. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Commission’s Public Reference Room by calling the Commission in the United States at 1-800-SEC-0330.

    Our reports, registration statements and other information can also be inspected on EDGAR available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    In Canada, additional information, including directors’ and officers’ remuneration and indebtedness, principal holders of our securities and securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans, is contained in our Management Information Circular for our most recent annual meeting of securityholders that involves the election of directors.

    Additional financial information is provided in our financial statements and MD&A, copies of which can be obtained by contacting our Corporate Secretary in writing at 390 – 3600 Lysander Lane, Richmond, British Columbia V7B 1C3 or by e-mail at info@polymetmining.com. Copies of such documents will be provided to shareholders free of charge.

    Additional information relating to PolyMet may be found on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (“SEDAR”) at www.sedar.com.

    I. Subsidiary Information

    Not Applicable

    ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

    We may be subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk, because we hold funds and financial instruments in Canadian dollars but report our financial information using the U.S. dollar. If we hold onto funds obtained from financings, currently our only means to obtain funds, in Canadian dollar accounts and the Canadian dollar depreciates in comparison to the U.S. the fair value of our funds will decrease and will be reported on our financial statements at this depressed conversion rate. If the Canadian dollar appreciates as compared to the U.S. dollar, however, fair value of any financial instruments or funds held will increase and be reported on our financial statements based on this favorable conversion rate. Our current exposure, however, is not sufficient to have a material effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

    - 59 -


    Moreover, we periodically access the capital markets with the issuance of new common shares to fund operating expenses, and we do not maintain significant cash reserves over periods of time that could be materially affected by fluctuations in interest rates or foreign exchange rates.

    ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

    Not Applicable.

    PART II

    ITEM 13. DEFAULT, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

    None.

    ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHT OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

    Shareholder Rights Plan

    Effective May 25, 2007, we adopted an updated Shareholder Rights Plan (“Rights Plan”), which was approved by our shareholders’ on June 27, 2007, modified by our shareholders on June 17, 2008, and reapproved by our shareholders on July 13, 2011. Under the Rights Plan, we have issued one right (a "Right") for no consideration in respect of each outstanding common share of the Company to all holders of record of common shares on December 4, 2003. All common shares subsequently issued by the Company during the term of the Rights Plan have one right represented for each common share held by the shareholder of the Company. The term of the Rights Plan is 10 years, unless the rights are earlier redeemed or exchanged. The Rights issued under the Rights Plan become exercisable only if a party acquires 20% or more of our common shares without complying with the Rights Plan or without the approval of our Board of Directors.

    Each Right entitles the registered holder thereof to purchase from the Company on the occurrence of certain events, one common share of the Company at the price of CDN$50 per share, subject to adjustment (the “Exercise Price”). However, if a Flip-in Event (as defined in the Rights Plan) occurs, each Right would then entitle the registered holder to receive, upon payment of the Exercise Price, that number of common shares that have a market value at the date of that occurrence equal to twice the Exercise Price. The Rights are not exercisable until the Separation Time as defined in the Rights Plan.

    The Shareholder Rights Plan has previously been filed as Exhibit 14.1.

    ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

    A. Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

    As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15 of the Exchange Act). Based on that evaluation, our management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, concluded that at January 31, 2012 the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance that material information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. In reaching this conclusion, the Company recognizes two factors that must be and are present:

    - 60 -


      a)

    the Company is dependent upon its advisors and consultants (primarily legal counsel) to assist in recognizing, interpreting and understanding and complying with disclosure requirements of the various securities regulators, and

      b)

    an active board of directors and management with open lines of communication.

    B. Management's Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

    Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with IFRS.

    Internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

    Management has assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as at January 31, 2012. In making its assessment, management has used the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting.

    Based on its assessment, management believes that, as of January 31, 2012, our internal control over financial reporting is effective.

    C. Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

    The attestation report of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP with respect to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is filed with Item 18 of this Annual Report.

    D. Changes in Internal Controls

    The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting. Any system of internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

    During the quarter ended October 31, 2010 the Company experienced difficulties moving to a new accounting and financial reporting system. These difficulties were primarily in the input and review of transactions and in particular concerned the accurate recording of foreign exchange and intercompany transactions. Termination of an outsource accounting service provider and use of non-accounting personnel to undertake accounting duties exacerbated the problems.

    Management undertook a rigorous process to ensure that all transactions were recorded completely and accurately in the accounting records. As a result of these difficulties and this review process, the Company was unable to meet its filing deadline to provide consolidated financial statements, management’s discussion and analysis and CEO and CFO certifications for its quarter ended October 31, 2010.

    - 61 -


    Management recognized the need to implement changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting relating to the input and review of all transactions, including foreign exchange and intercompany transactions. Since filing the third quarter interim financials, Management has been implementing changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting including strengthening the segregation of duties, reallocating responsibilities, strengthening the financial reporting team, and is in the final stage of engaging independent advice in connection with complex accounting issues and tax.

    Implementation of the changes was not sufficiently complete during preparation of year-end financial statements and, as a consequence, the Company was unable to meet its filing deadline to provide consolidated financial statements, management’s discussion and analysis and CEO and CFO certifications for its year ended January 31, 2011.

    Management believes that the full implementation of the changes described above ensures timely provision of future financial information to the Company's shareholders, in accordance with the filing deadlines established by regulators.

    Aside from the completion of the implementation of the changes noted above and the retention of a consultant to assist with the transition from CGAAP to IFRS, there have been no other changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the year ended January 31, 2012 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to material affect, its internal control over financial reporting.

    ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

    As of January 31, 2012, the audit committee consisted of four directors. All four members of the Audit Committee, W. Ian L. Forrest, Stephen Rowland, Frank L. Sims, and Michael M. Sill meet the criteria of an “Audit Committee Financial Expert” under the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC, and each of their designation as an “Audit Committee Financial Expert” has been ratified by the Board. All four members of the Audit Committee are “independent,” as that term is defined in the New York Stock Exchange Amex listing standards.

    ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS

    We have adopted a Code of Ethics, effective April 5, 2006, which applies to all our employees, including our directors and executive officers, including our principal executive, financial and accounting officers, and persons performing similar functions. The Code of Ethics covers areas of professional and business conduct, and is intended to promote honest and ethical behavior, including fair dealing and the ethical handling of conflicts of interest, support full, fair, accurate, and timely disclosure in reports and documents we file with, or submit to, the SEC and other governmental authorities, and in its other public communications; deter wrongdoing; encourage compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations; and to ensure the protection of our legitimate business interests. We also encourage our directors, officers, employees and consultants to promptly report any violations of the Code of Ethics.

    The Code has previously been filed as Exhibit 11.1.

    - 62 -


    ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

    The following outlines the expenditures for accounting fees billed and paid for the last two fiscal periods ended:

    Financial Year
    Ending
    Audit Fees
    Audit Related
    Fees1
    Tax Fees2
    All Other Fees
    January 31, 2012 CDN $340,000 CDN $93,000 CDN $19,900 CDN $Nil
    January 31, 2011 CDN $225,000 CDN $111,000 CDN $14,400 CDN $Nil

      1

    Audit Related Fees are the aggregate fees billed for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit and are not reported under Audit Fees.

      2

    Tax fees consist of fees to prepare the Company’s annual tax filings.

    Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

    All of the fees paid to our auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, were pre-approved by our Audit Committee. This pre-approval involved a submission by our auditors to our Audit Committee of a scope of work to complete the audit and prepare tax returns, an estimate of the time involved, and a proposal for the fees to be charged for the audit. The Audit Committee reviewed this proposal with our management and after discussion with our auditors, pre-approved the scope of work and fees.

    ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

    Not applicable.

    ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

    Not applicable.

    ITEM 16F. CHANGES IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

    Not applicable.

    ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

    Our corporate governance practices do not differ in any significant way from those followed by U.S. domestic companies listed on the NYSE Amex.

    ITEM 16H. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

    There were no incidents reportable under Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act related to section 104 of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977.

    - 63 -


    PART III

    ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

    Not applicable.

    ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

    Our financial statements are stated in United States Dollars ($) and are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), effective with the Company’s transition to IFRS on February 1, 2011. Previously, the Company’s consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with CGAAP. Material measurement differences between CGAAP and accounting principles in the United States, applicable to the Company, were described in the Company’s previous consolidated financial statements.

    Index to Financial Statements

    Description Page
    Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements F-1
    Independent Auditor's Report F-3
    Consolidated Balance Sheet F-5
    Consolidated Statements of Loss and Comprehensive Loss F-6
    Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity F-7
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows F-8
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-9

    - 64 -


     

     

     

    POLYMET MINING CORP.

     

    CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

    January 31, 2012, January 31, 2011 and February 1, 2010

    U.S. Funds

     

     

    Suite 390 – 3600 Lysander Place, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, V7B 1C3

    E-MAIL: info@polymetmining.com OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: www.polymetmining.com



     POLYMET MINING CORP.

    Management Report

    Management’s Responsibility for Consolidated Financial Statements

    The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements of PolyMet Mining Corp. (the “Company) are the responsibility of management. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared by management in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and include certain estimates that reflect management’s best judgments.

    The Company’s Board of Directors has approved the information contained in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Board of Directors fulfills its responsibilities regarding the Consolidated Financial Statements mainly through its Audit Committee, which has a written mandate that complies with current requirements of Canadian securities legislation and the United States Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Audit Committee meets at least on a quarterly basis.

    Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

    Management is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with IFRS.

    Internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

    Management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as at January 31, 2012. In making its assessment, management has used the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) to evaluate the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Based on this assessment, management has concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as at that date.

    The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as at January 31, 2012 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, our independent auditors, as stated in their report which appears herein.

     

    “Joseph Scipioni” (signed)   “Douglas Newby” (signed)
         
    Joseph Scipioni   Douglas Newby
    President and Chief Executive Officer   Chief Financial Officer

    F-1



    Independent Auditor’s Report

    To the Shareholders of PolyMet Mining Corp.

    We have completed an integrated audit of PolyMet Mining Corp.’s (the “Company”) 2012 consolidated financial statements and its internal control over financial reporting as at January 31, 2012 and an audit of its January 31, 2011 consolidated financial statements. Our opinions, based on our audits, are presented below.

    Report on the consolidated financial statements

    We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company, which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as at January 31, 2012, January 31, 2011 and February 1, 2010 and the consolidated statements of loss and comprehensive loss, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years ended January 31, 2012 and January 31, 2011, and the related notes, which comprise a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

    Management’s responsibility for the consolidated financial statements
    Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

    Auditor’s responsibility
    Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards (“CAS”) and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform an audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement. CAS require that we comply with ethical requirements.

    An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence, on a test basis, about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the Company’s preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting principles and policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

     
    PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Chartered Accountants
    PricewaterhouseCoopers Place, Suite 700, 250 Howe Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6C 3S7
    T: +1 604 806 7000, F: +1 604 806 7806, www.pwc.com/ca
     

    “PwC” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership, which is a member firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each member firm of which is a separate legal entity.

    F-2



    We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements.

    Opinion
    In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of PolyMet Mining Corp. as at January 31, 2012, January 31, 2011 and February 1, 2010 and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years ended January 31, 2012 and January 31, 2011 in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

    Report on internal control over financial reporting

    We have also audited PolyMet Mining Corp.’s internal control over financial reporting as at January 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

    Management’s responsibility for internal control over financial reporting
    Management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

    Auditor’s responsibility
    Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

    An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances.

    We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our audit opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

    Definition of internal control over financial reporting
    A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

    F-3



    Inherent limitations
    Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

    Opinion
    In our opinion, PolyMet Mining Corp. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as at January 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by COSO.


    Chartered Accountants

    Vancouver, British Columbia
    April 30, 2012

    F-4


    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    All figures in Thousands of U.S. Dollars

        January     January 31,     February 1,  
        31, 2012     2011     2010  
    ASSETS                  
    Current                  
         Cash and equivalents $  17,478   $  10,361   $  21,282  
         Trade and other receivables   440     318     88  
         Investment (Note 17)   30     66     140  
         Prepaid expenses   934     636     512  
         Assets held for sale (Notes 6 and 16c))   -     3,420     -  
                       
        18,882     14,801     22,022  
    Deferred Financing Costs   -     -     1,794  
    Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment (Notes 5 and 6)   170,689     141,935     125,876  
      $  189,571   $  156,736   $  149,692  
                       
    LIABILITIES                  
    Current                  
         Trade payables and accrued liabilities $  1,679   $  2,444   $  2,953  
         Current portion of long term debt (Note 7)   -     6,750     2,000  
         Current portion of environmental rehabilitation provision (Note 8)   828     1,408     756  
        2,507     10,602     5,709  
    Long term                  
         Long term debt (Note 7)   3,672     1,775     8,529  
         Convertible debt (Note 9)   29,018     27,631     24,866  
         Environmental rehabilitation provision (Note 8)   22,008     14,311     12,943  
    Total Liabilities   57,205     54,319     52,047  
                       
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY                  
    Share Capital - (Note 10)   168,434     142,373     132,066  
    Share Premium - (Note 10)   2,132     875     -  
    Equity Reserves   43,590     37,914     37,662  
    Deficit   (81,790 )   (78,745 )   (72,083 )
        132,366     102,417     97,645  
    Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $  189,571   $  156,736   $  149,692  
    General Information (Note 1)                  
    Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 6, 8, 10, 16 and 19)                  
    Subsequent events (Note 10b) and 19)                  

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD:

    “William Murray”                       , Director
       
    “David Dreisinger”                    , Director

    - See Accompanying Notes –

    F-5


    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Consolidated Statements of Loss and Comprehensive Loss
    For the years ended January 31
    All figures in Thousands of U.S. Dollars, except per share amounts

        January     January 31,  
        31, 2012     2011  
    General and Administrative            
       Amortization $  31   $  31  
       Consulting fees   31     36  
       Directors’ fees and expenses   248     -  
       Exploration   -     193  
       Investor relations   17     118  
       Office and corporate wages   984     1,196  
       Professional fees   740     365  
       Shareholders’ information   368     330  
       Share-based compensation (Notes 10b) and c))   625     (119 )
       Transfer agent and filing fees   99     99  
       Travel   226     267  
        3,369     2,516  
                 
    Other Expenses (Income)            
       Financing costs write-off   -     1,830  
       Finance income and costs (Note 11)   351     499  
       Loss (gain) on foreign exchange   104     (46 )
       Loss (gain) on asset held for sale   (72 )   520  
       Loss on refinancing of convertible debt (Note 9)   -     2,931  
       Rental income   (50 )   (198 )
        333     5,536  
                 
    Loss for the year before tax   3,702     8,052  
       Deferred income tax recovery (Note 10e))   (657 )   (1,390 )
    Loss for the year   3,045     6,662  
                 
    Other Comprehensive Loss            
       Unrealized gain (loss) on investment   (36 )   (77 )
    Total Comprehensive Loss for the year   3,081     6,739  
                 
                 
    Basic and Diluted Loss per Share $  (0.02 ) $  (0.04 )
                 
                 
                 
    Weighted Average Number of Shares   160,358,498     149,444,955  

    - See Accompanying Notes -

    F-6


    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholder Equity
    For the years ended January 31
    All figures in Thousands of U.S. Dollars, except for Shares

        Share Capital (Notes 9 & 10)     Equity Reserves              
                                            Accumulated                    
                    Paid-in                 Warrants and     Other     Total              
        Authorized     Issued     Share     Share           Share-based      Comprehensive     Equity              

     

      Shares     Shares     Capital     Premium     Total     Payment     Loss     Reserves     Deficit     Total  

    Balance at January 31, 2011

      Unlimited     154,825,791   $  142,373   $  875   $  143,248   $  37,920   $  (6 ) $  37,914   $  (78,745 ) $  102,417  

       Loss and comprehensive loss for the year

      -     -     -     -     -     -     (36 )   (36 )   (3,045 )   (3,081 )

       Shares and warrants issued:

                              -                 -           -  

             Equity offering and issuance costs (Notes 9 and 10a

      -     13,333,333     15,162     4,667     19,829     -     -     -     -     19,829  

             Equity offering and issuance costs (Notes 9 and 10a

      -     5,000,000     9,103     875     9,978     -     -     -     -     9,978  

             Exercise of options

      -     1,185,000     902     -     902     -     -     -     -     902  

             Fair value of share options exercised

      -     -     663     -     663     (663 )   -     (663 )   -     -  

             Restricted share units in trust (Note 10c))

      -     259,000     -     -     -     -     -     -     -     -  

             For options on land purchases

      -     135,000     231     -     231     -     -     -     -     231  

       Refinancing of convertible debt (Note 9)

      -     -     -     (4,285 )   (4,285 )   4,285     -     4,285     -     -  

       Long-term debt - warrants (Note 7)

      -     -     -     -     -     550     -     550     -     550  

       Milestone 4 Bonus Share cost amortization (Note 16)

      -     -     -     -     -     1,235     -     1,235     -     1,235  

       Deferred income tax recovery (Note 10e))

      -     -     -     -     -     (657 )   -     (657 )   -     (657 )

       Share-based compensation (Note 10c))

      -     -     -     -     -     962     -     962     -     962  

    Balance - January 31, 2012

      Unlimited     174,738,124   $  168,434   $  2,132   $  170,566   $  43,632   $  (42 ) $  43,590   $  (81,790 ) $  132,366  

     

      Share Capital (Notes 9 & 10)     Equity Reserves              

     

                                          Accumulated                    

     

                  Paid-in                 Warrants and     Other     Total              

     

      Authorized     Issued     Share     Share           Share-based      Comprehensive     Equity              

     

      Shares     Shares     Capital     Premium     Total     Payment     Loss     Reserves     Deficit     Total  

    Balance at January 31, 2010

      Unlimited     148,980,791   $  132,066   $  -   $  132,066   $  37,591   $  71   $  37,662   $  (72,083 ) $  97,645  

       Loss and comprehensive loss for the year

      -     -     -     -     -     -     (77 )   (77 )   (6,662 )   (6,739 )

       Shares and warrants issued:

                              -                 -     -     -  

             Equity offering and issuance costs (Notes 9 and 10a

      -     5,000,000     9,019     875     9,894     -     -     -     -     9,894  

             Exercise of options

      -     845,000     808     -     808     -     -     -     -     808  

             Fair value of share options exercised

      -     -     480     -     480     (480 )   -     (480 )   -     -  

       Refinancing of convertible debt (Note 9)

      -     -     -     -     -     2,225     -     2,225     -     2,225  

       Milestone 4 Bonus Share cost amortization (Note 16)

      -     -     -     -     -     (89 )   -     (89 )   -     (89 )

       Deferred income tax recovery (Note 10e))

      -     -     -     -     -     (1,390 )   -     (1,390 )   -     (1,390 )

       Share-based compensation (Note 10c))

      -     -     -     -     -     63     -     63     -     63  

    Balance - January 31, 2011

      Unlimited     154,825,791   $  142,373   $  875   $  143,248   $  37,920   $  (6 ) $  37,914   $  (78,745 ) $  102,417  

    - See Accompanying Notes -

    F-7


    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    For the years ended January 31
    All figures in Thousands of U.S. Dollars

        2012     2011  
    Operating Activities            
       Loss for the year $  (3,045 ) $  (6,662 )
       Items not involving cash            
             Amortization   31     31  
             Finance costs (Note 11)   350     480  
             Financing costs write-off   -     1,830  
             Deferred income tax recovery (Note 10e))   (657 )   (1,390 )
             Loss (gain) on asset held for sale   (72 )   520  
             Loss on refinancing of convertible debt (Note 9)   -     2,931  
             Share-based compensation   625     (119 )
       Changes in non-cash working capital items            
             Trade and other receivables   (122 )   (230 )
             Prepaid expenses   (298 )   (124 )
             Trade payables and accrued liabilities   233     (335 )
    Net cash used in operating activities   (2,955 )   (3,068 )
                 
    Financing Activities            
       Share capital - for cash (Note 10a))   30,709     10,702  
       Deferred financing costs   -     (36 )
       Long-term debt funding (Note 7)   4,000     -  
       Long-term debt repayment (Note 7)   (8,500 )   (2,000 )
    Net cash provided by financing activities   26,209     8,666  
                 
    Investing Activities            
       Purchase of mineral property, plant and equipment   (19,629 )   (16,519 )
       Sale of asset held for sale   3,942     -  
    Net cash used in investing activities   (16,137 )   (16,519 )
                 
    Net Increase (decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents   7,117     (10,921 )
    Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning of year   10,361     21,282  
    Cash and Cash Equivalents - End of year $  17,478   $  10,361  

    Supplemental Disclosure with Respect to Statement of Cash Flows – Note 12

    - See Accompanying Notes -

    F-8



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    1.

    General Information

       

    PolyMet Mining Corp. (the “Company”) was incorporated in British Columbia, Canada on March 4, 1981 under the name Fleck Resources Ltd. The Company changed its name from Fleck Resources to PolyMet Mining Corp. on June 10, 1998. The Company is engaged in the exploration and development, when warranted, of natural resource properties. The Company’s primary mineral property is the NorthMet Project, a polymetallic project in northeastern Minnesota, USA. The realization of the Company’s investment in the NorthMet Project and other assets is dependent upon various factors, including the existence of economically recoverable mineral reserves, the ability to obtain the necessary financing to complete the exploration and development of the NorthMet Project, future profitable operations, or alternatively upon disposal of the investment on an advantageous basis.

       

    On September 25, 2006, the Company received the results of a Definitive Feasibility Study prepared by Bateman Engineering (Pty) Ltd. (“Bateman”) that confirmed the economic and technical viability of the NorthMet Project (the "Project") and, as such, the Project moved from the exploration stage to the development stage.

       

    The head office of the Company is located at 6500 County Road 666, Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota, United States of America, 55750, The principal address and records office of the Company are located at Suite 390 – 3600 Lysander Place, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, V7B 1C3 and 700 West Georgia, 25th Floor, Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V7Y 1B3, respectively.

       
    2.

    Basis of Preparation

       

    Statement of Compliance

       

    The consolidated financial statements of PolyMet Mining Corp. have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). These are the Company’s first consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS and IFRS 1 First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards have been applied.

       

    The Company’s consolidated financial statements were previously prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). An explanation of how the transition to IFRS has affected the reported financial position, financial performance and cash flows of the Company is provided in Note 18. Comparative figures have been restated to reflect these adjustments.

       

    The policies applied in these consolidated financial statements use the IFRS standards and interpretations effective as of January 31, 2012. The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on April 30, 2012.

       

    Basis of Consolidation and Presentation

       

    The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of available-for-sale and fair value through profit or loss financial assets. All dollar amounts presented are in United States (“U.S.”) dollar unless otherwise specified.

       

    The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Poly Met Mining, Inc. (“PolyMet US”). Control is achieved where the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. Inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated on consolidation.

    F-9



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    3.

    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

       

    Foreign Currency Translation

       

    The U.S. dollar is the functional currency of the Company and its controlled entities. Amounts in these consolidated financial statements are expressed in United States (“U.S.”) dollars unless otherwise stated. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency at the exchange rates at the date of the transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities of the Company’s operations denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar are translated using exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates on the dates of the initial transactions. Revenue and expense items are translated at the exchange rates in effect at the date of the underlying transaction, except for amortization related to non-monetary assets, which are translated at historical exchange rates. Exchange differences are recognized in net loss in the year in which they arise.

       

    Borrowing costs

       

    Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset are capitalized as part of the cost of that asset until such time as the asset is substantially complete and ready for its intended use or sale. Where funds have been borrowed specifically to finance an asset, the amount capitalized is the actual borrowing costs incurred. Where the funds used to finance an asset form part of general borrowings, the amount capitalized is calculated using a weighted average of rates applicable to relevant general borrowings of the Company during the period. Other borrowing costs not directly attributable to a qualifying asset are expensed in the year incurred.

       

    Significant Accounting Estimates and Judgements

       

    The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. These critical accounting estimates require management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as at the date of the financial statements.

       

    Significant estimates used in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements include, amongst other things, expected economic lives of plant and equipment, anticipated costs of environmental rehabilitations including the reclamation of mine site, valuation of options, convertible debt and share purchase warrants, and the assessment of impairment in value of long lived assets. Actual results could differ from these estimates. The following discusses some of the most significant accounting estimates and judgements that the Company has made in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements:

       

    (i) Determination of mineral reserves

       

    Reserves are estimates of the amount of product that can be economically and legally extracted from the Company’s property. In order to estimate reserves, estimates are required about a range of geological, technical and economic factors, including quantities, production techniques, production costs, capital costs, transport costs, demand, prices and exchange rates. Estimating the quantity of reserves requires the size, shape and depth of deposits to be determined by analyzing geological data. This process may require complex and difficult geological judgments to interpret the data. As a result, management will form a view of forecast sales prices, based on current and long-term historical average price trends. Changes in the proven and probable reserves estimates may impact the carrying value of property, plant and equipment, restoration provisions, recognition of deferred tax amounts and depreciation, depletion and amortization.

    F-10



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    3.

    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Continued

    (ii) Asset values and impairment charges

    If the recoverable amount of an asset or cash-generating unit is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset or cash-generating unit is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognized immediately in the statement of loss and comprehensive loss. Management’s determination of recoverable amounts include estimates of sales volumes and prices, costs to sell, recoverable reserves, operating costs and capital costs, which are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that may affect the recoverability of an asset’s costs. Although management has made its best estimate of these factors, it is possible that changes could occur that could adversely affect management’s estimate of the net cash flow to be generated from its assets or cash-generating unit.

    For its mining property interest the Company considers both external and internal sources of information in assessing whether there are any indications of impairment. External sources of information the Company considers include changes in the market, economic and legal environment in which the Company operates that are not within its control and affect the recoverable amount of mining property interests. Internal sources of information the Company considers include indications of economic performance of the asset. In determining the recoverable amounts of the Company’s mining property interest, the Company’s management makes estimates of the discounted future after-tax cash flows expected to be derived from the Company’s property, costs to sell the mining property and the appropriate discount rate. Reductions in price forecasts, increases in estimated future costs of production, increases in estimated future non-expansionary capital expenditures, reductions in the amount of recoverable reserves and resources, and/or adverse current economics can result in a write-down of the carrying amounts of the Company’s mining interest.

    (iii) Estimated Reclamation and Closure Costs

    The Company’s provision for reclamation and closure cost obligations represents management’s best estimate of the present value of the future cash outflows required to settle the liability which reflects estimates of future costs, inflation, and assumptions of risks associated with the future cash outflows, and the applicable risk-free interest rates for discounting the future cash outflows. Changes in the above factors can result in a change to the provision recognized by the Company. Changes to reclamation and closure cost obligations are recorded with a corresponding change to the carrying amounts of the related mining property. Adjustments to the carrying amounts of the related mining property can result in a change to future depletion expense.

    Cash and Cash Equivalents

    The Company considers cash and cash equivalents to include amounts held in banks and highly liquid debt investments with remaining maturities at point of purchase of three months or less.

    Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment

    Mineral Property

    Mineral property costs, aside from mineral property acquisition costs, incurred prior to determination of the Definitive Feasibility Study (“DFS”) are expensed as incurred and expenditures incurred subsequent to the DFS and mineral property acquisition costs are capitalized until the property is placed into production, sold, allowed to lapse or abandoned. Acquisition costs include cash, debt and fair market value of common shares.

    F-11



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    3.

    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Continued

       

    Upon commencement of production, mineral properties and acquisition costs relating to mines are amortized on a unit of production basis over the estimated proven and probable mineral reserves not to exceed the assets’ useful lives.

       

    As a result of the DFS on the NorthMet Project, the Project entered the development stage effective October 1, 2006. The Company has capitalized mineral property development expenditures related to the NorthMet Project from that date.

       

    Ownership in mineral interests involves certain inherent risks due to the difficulties of determining the validity of certain claims as well as the potential for problems arising from the frequently ambiguous conveyance history characteristic of many mineral interests. The Company has investigated ownership of its mineral interests and, to the best of its knowledge, ownership of its interests are in good standing.

       

    Plant and Equipment

       

    Plant and equipment are recorded at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and if applicable, accumulated impairment losses. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Company and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of a replaced part is derecognized. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the statement of loss and comprehensive loss during the year in which they are incurred. Plant and equipment is depreciated over the estimated life of the related assets calculated on a unit of production or straight-line basis, as appropriate.

       

    Depreciation of plant and equipment is calculated using the cost of the asset, less its residual value, on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset. Estimated useful lives are as follows:


      Leasehold improvements Straight-line over the term of the lease
      Furniture and equipment Straight-line over 10 years
      Computers Straight-line over 5 years
      Computer software Straight-line over 1 year

    Assets Held for Sale

    Assets are classified as held for sale in the period in which certain criteria are met. Assets held for sale are measured at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell and are not depreciated as long as they remain classified as held for sale.

    Loss Per Share

    Loss per share is computed by dividing the loss for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Basic and diluted losses per share are the same for the periods reported, as the effect of potential issuances of shares under warrant or share option agreements would, in total, be anti-dilutive.

    F-12



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    3.

    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Continued

       

    Share-Based Payments and Share Purchase Warrants

       

    All share-based payment awards made to directors, employees and non-employees are measured and recognized using a fair value based method. For directors and employees, or those providing services similar to employees, the fair value of the award is measured at the date of the grant and recognized over the tranche’s vesting period in earnings or capitalized as appropriate based on the number of options expected to vest. Share options issued to non-employees are recognized based on the fair value of the goods or services received.

       

    For directors, employees and non-employees, the fair value of the award is accrued and charged either to operations or mineral property plant and equipment, with the offsetting credit to warrants and share-based payment reserve, on a graded method over the vesting period. If and when share options are ultimately exercised or performance share units and restricted share units vest, the applicable amounts from the warrants and share-based payment reserve are transferred to share capital.

       

    The Company issues share purchase warrants in connection with certain equity transactions. The fair value of the warrants, as determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, is credited to the warrants and share-based payment reserve. The recorded value of share purchase warrants is transferred to share capital upon exercise.

       

    The Company issues restricted stock units to employees. The fair value of the restricted stock units is calculated using the intrinsic value of the shares at issuance, and is amortised straight-line over the vesting period. Certain restricted stock units vest upon achievement of a specified performance condition. On a quarterly basis, management, using the best available information, the probability of achieving those performance conditions, estimates the appropriate vesting period. The recorded value of the restricted stock units is transferred to share capital upon vesting.

       

    When the Company amends the terms of either share options or share purchase warrants, the incremental change in the fair value of the options or warrants due to the amendment is booked to warrant or option amendment expense and the warrants and share-based payment reserve.

       

    Provisions

       

    Provisions for environmental rehabilitation associated with mineral property, plant and equipment, are recognized when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recorded as finance income and costs expense.

       

    Upon initial recognition of provisions for environmental rehabilitation, a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related asset is recorded and amortized over the life of the asset. The estimates are based principally on legal and regulatory requirements. Following initial recognition of the environmental rehabilitation provision, the carrying amount of the liability is increased for the passage of time and adjusted for changes to the current market-based discount rate, or changes in the amount and timing of the underlying cash flows needed to settle the obligation.

    F-13



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    3.

    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Continued

       

    It is possible that the Company’s estimates of its ultimate reclamation and closure liabilities could change as a result of changes in regulations, changes in the extent of environmental remediation required, changes in the means of reclamation or changes in cost estimates. The operations of the Company may in the future be affected from time to time in varying degrees by changes in environmental regulations, including those for future removal and site restoration costs. Both the likelihood of new regulations and their overall effect upon the Company may vary greatly and are not predictable.

       

    Impairment of Non-Financial Assets

       

    The carrying amounts of the Company’s non-financial assets, including mineral property, plant and equipment, are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. The recoverable amount of an asset is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. An impairment loss previously recorded is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount.

       

    Financial Assets

       

    All financial assets are initially recorded at fair value and designated upon inception as one of the following four categories: held to maturity, available for sale, loans and receivables or at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”). Financial assets classified as FVTPL are measured at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recognized through profit and loss. Financial assets classified as loans and receivables and held to maturity are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method less any allowance for impairment. The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset and of allocating interest income over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts (including all fees paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset, or, where appropriate, a shorter period. Financial assets classified as available for sale are measured at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive loss except when there is objective evidence that the asset is impaired, the cumulative loss that had been recognized in other comprehensive loss shall be reclassified from equity to profit or loss as a reclassification adjustment. Transactions costs associated with FVTPL financial assets are expensed as incurred, while transaction costs associated with all other financial assets are included in the initial carrying amount of the asset.

       

    Financial Liabilities and Equity Instruments

       

    Financial liabilities are recognized when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial liabilities at amortized cost include trade payables and long term debt. Trade payables are initially recognized at the amount required to be paid, less, when material, a discount to reduce the payables to fair value. Subsequently, trade payables are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Long term debt is recognized initially at fair value, net of any transaction costs incurred, and subsequently at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Financial liabilities are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within twelve months. Otherwise, they are presented as non-current liabilities.

    F-14



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    3.

    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Continued

       

    All financial liabilities are initially recorded at fair value and designated upon inception as FVTPL or other financial liabilities. Financial liabilities classified as other financial liabilities are initially recognized at fair value less directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments through the expected life of the financial liability. Financial liabilities classified as FVTPL include financial liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as FVTPL. Derivatives, including separated embedded derivatives, are also classified as held for trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments. Transaction costs on financial liabilities classified as FVTPL are expensed as incurred. At the end of each reporting period subsequent to initial recognition, financial liabilities at FVTPL are measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized directly in profit or loss in the period in which they arise. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss excludes any interest paid on the financial liabilities.

       
    4.

    Recent Accounting Pronouncements

       

    The IASB issued the following standards which have not yet been adopted by the Company: IFRS 9, Financial instruments - Classification and Measurement, IFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements, IFRS 11, Joint Arrangements IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities, IAS 27, Separate Financial Statements, IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement and amended IAS 28, Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures. Each of the new standards is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, except for IFRS 9 which is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The Company has not yet begun the process of assessing the impact that the new and amended standards will have on its consolidated financial statements or whether to early adopt any of the new requirements.

       

    The following is a brief summary of these new standards:

       

    IFRS 9 – Financial instruments - classification and measurement

       

    This is the first part of a new standard on classification and measurement of financial assets that will replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. IFRS 9 has two measurement categories: amortized cost and fair value. All equity instruments are measured at fair value. A debt instrument is at amortized cost only if the entity is holding it to collect contractual cash flows and the cash flows represent principal and interest. Otherwise it is at fair value through profit or loss. Requirements for financial liabilities were added to IFRS 9 in October 2010. Most of the requirements for financial liabilities were carried forward unchanged from IAS 39. However, some changes were made to the fair value option for financial liabilities to address the issue of own credit risk.

    F-15



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    4.

    Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Continued

       

    IFRS 10 – Consolidation

       

    IFRS 10 requires an entity to consolidate an investee when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. Under existing IFRS, consolidation is required when an entity has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. IFRS 10 replaces SIC-12 Consolidation—Special Purpose Entities and parts of IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements.

       

    IFRS 11 - Joint Arrangements

       

    IFRS 11 requires a venturer to classify its interest in a joint arrangement as a joint venture or joint operation. Joint ventures will be accounted for using the equity method of accounting whereas for a joint operation the venturer will recognize its share of the assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses of the joint operation. Under existing IFRS, entities have the choice to proportionately consolidate or equity account for interests in joint ventures. IFRS 11 supersedes IAS 31, Interests in Joint Ventures, and SIC-13, Jointly Controlled Entities—Non-monetary Contributions by Venturers.

       

    IFRS 12 – Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities

       

    IFRS 12 establishes disclosure requirements for interests in other entities, such as joint arrangements, associates, special purpose vehicles and off balance sheet vehicles. The standard carries forward existing disclosures and also introduces significant additional disclosure requirements that address the nature of, and risks associated with, an entity’s interests in other entities.

       

    IFRS 13 - Fair Value Measurement

       

    IFRS 13 is a comprehensive standard for fair value measurement and disclosure requirements for use across all IFRS standards. The new standard clarifies that fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset, or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants, at the measurement date. It also establishes disclosures about fair value measurement. Under existing IFRS, guidance on measuring and disclosing fair value is dispersed among the specific standards requiring fair value measurements and in many cases does not reflect a clear measurement basis or consistent disclosures.

    F-16



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    5.

    Resource Property Agreements

       

    NorthMet, Minnesota, U.S.A. - Lease

       

    Pursuant to an agreement dated January 4, 1989, subsequently amended and assigned, the Company leases certain lands in St. Louis County, Minnesota from RGGS Land & Minerals Ltd., L.P. The original term of the renewable lease was 20 years and called for total lease payments of $1,475,000. The Company can and has renewed the lease by making annual payments of $150,000 on or before each anniversary through January 2012.

       

    The Company can, at its option, terminate the lease at any time by giving written notice to the lessor not less than 90 days prior to the effective termination date or can indefinitely extend the 20-year term by continuing to make $150,000 annual lease payments on each successive anniversary date.

       

    The lease payments are considered advance royalty payments and shall be deducted from future production royalties payable to the lessor, which range from 3% to 5% based on the net smelter return received by the Company. The Company’s recovery of the advance royalty payments is subject to the lessor receiving an amount not less than the amount of the annual lease payment due for that year.

       

    Pursuant to the leases, PolyMet holds mineral rights and the right to mine. PolyMet intends to acquire surface rights through a land exchange with the United States Forest Service, which costs have been included in the capital cost estimate of the Project.

    F-17



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    6.

    Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment

       

    Details are as follows:


          NorthMet     Other fixed        
      Net Book Value   Project     assets     Total  
                         
      Balance at February 1, 2010 $  125,664   $  212   $  125,876  
             Additions   17,488     192     17,680  
             Disposals   -     -     -  
      Changes to environmental rehabilitation (Note 8)   1,997     -     1,997  
      Transfer to assets held for sale   (3,420 )   -     (3,420 )
      Amortization   -     (198 )   (198 )
      Balance at January 31, 2011   141,729     206     141,935  
             Additions   20,807     412     21,219  
             Disposals   -     -     -  
      Changes to environmental rehabilitation (Note 8)   7,894     -     7,894  
      Amortization   -     (359 )   (359 )
      Balance at January 31, 2012 $  170,430   $  259   $  170,689  

          January     January 31,     February 1,  
      NorthMet Project   31, 2012     2011     2010  
      Mineral property acquisition and interest costs $  42,895   $  41,220   $  38,838  
      Mine plan and development   34,941     29,305     25,470  
      Environmental   33,843     25,994     19,537  
      Consulting and wages   25,921     21,756     18,788  
      Environmental rehabilitation   20,925     13,143     11,600  
      Site activities   10,956     9,362     7,641  
      Mine equipment   949     949     3,790  
      Net book value $  170,430   $  141,729   $  125,664  

    Erie Plant, Minnesota, U.S.A.

    In October 2003, the Company entered into an option with Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. to purchase 100% ownership of large parts of the former LTV Steel Mining Company ore processing plant in north eastern Minnesota. The Company paid $500,000 in cash and issued 1,000,000 common shares (at fair value of $229,320) for this option, which it exercised on November 15, 2005 under the Asset Purchase Agreement with Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. Consideration for the purchase was $1 million in cash, $2.4 million in notes payable (paid in full in June 2008) and the issuance of 6,200,547 common shares (at fair market value of $7,564,000) in the capital shares of the Company.

    On December 20, 2006, the Company closed a transaction (the “Asset Purchase Agreement II”) in which it acquired, from Cliffs, property and associated rights sufficient to provide it with a railroad connection linking the mine development site and the Erie Plant. The transaction also included a 120-railcar fleet, locomotive fuelling and maintenance facilities, water rights and pipelines, large administrative offices on site and an additional 6,000 acres to the east and west of and contiguous to its existing tailing facilities.

    F-18



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    6.

    Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment - Continued

       

    The purchase price totalling 2 million shares and $15 million in cash and debt (Note 7) was in four tranches:


     

    2 million shares of PolyMet with a fair value of $6.160 million, paid at closing;

         
     

    $1 million in cash, paid at closing;

         
     

    $7 million in cash, payable in quarterly instalments of $250,000 commencing December 31, 2006 with the balance payable upon receipt of production financing (remaining balance paid in full in December 2011). Interest was payable quarterly at the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate, and

         
     

    $7 million in cash, payable in quarterly instalments of $250,000 commencing on December 31, 2009 with a balloon payment of any unpaid balance due on December 31, 2011 (balance paid in full in December 2011). No interest was payable until December 31, 2009 after which it was payable quarterly at the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate, accordingly the debt was fair valued, for balance sheet purposes, by discounting it at 8.25%.

    The Company has assumed certain ongoing site-related environmental and reclamation obligations as a result of the above purchases. These environmental and reclamation obligations are presently contracted under the terms of the purchase agreements with Cliffs. Once the Company obtains its permit to mine and Cliffs is released from its obligations by the State agencies, the environmental and reclamation obligations will be direct with the governing bodies. The present value of the environmental rehabilitation provision in the amount of $22,836,000 (Note 8) net of accretion and amounts spent has been recorded as an increase in the carrying amount of the NorthMet Project assets and will be amortized over the life of the asset.

    Interest and loan accretion on the long-term (Note 7) and convertible debt (Note 9) to January 31, 2012 in the amount of $9,213,000 (January 31, 2011 - $7,196,000, February 1, 2010 - $4,833,000) have been capitalized as part of the cost of the NorthMet Project assets.

    As the above assets are not in use, no amortization of these assets has been recorded to January 31, 2012.

    At April 30, 2010, certain equipment was classified as assets held for sale. During the year-ended January 31, 2011, these assets were written down to fair value less estimated cost to sell, resulting in a loss of $520,000. During the quarter ended January 31, 2012 the assets were sold for a gain of $72,000.

    F-19



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    7.

    Long Term Debt

       

    Pursuant to Asset Purchase Agreement II (Note 6) the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary PolyMet US signed two notes payable to Cliffs in the amounts of $7,000,000 and $7,000,000, respectively.

       

    The first note was interest bearing at the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate and was being paid in quarterly instalments equal to $250,000 with the first payment on December 31, 2006, with the balance repayable upon receipt of commercial financing, for total repayment of $7,000,000.

       

    The second note was interest bearing at the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate and was being paid in quarterly instalments equal to $250,000 commencing on December 31, 2009 for total repayment of $7,000,000 with final payment due on December 31, 2011. No interest was payable on the second note until December 31, 2009. Accordingly it was fair valued, for balance sheet purposes, by discounting it at 8.25%, the rate of interest on the first note when it was entered.

       

    If PolyMet were to default on individual elements of the transactions with Cliffs, the assets associated with the default could revert to Cliffs’ control.

       

    Both of these notes were repaid in full in December 2011.

       

    On June 30, 2011 PolyMet closed a $4,000,000 loan from Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board ("IRRRB"), a development agency created by the State of Minnesota to stabilize and enhance the economy of northeastern Minnesota. At the same time, the Company exercised its options to acquire two tracts of land as part of a proposed land exchange with the U.S. Forest Service (“USFS”). The loan is secured by the land acquired, carries a fixed interest rate of 5% per annum, compounded annually, and is repayable on the earlier of June 30, 2016 or the date which the related land is exchanged with the USFS. PolyMet has issued warrants giving the IRRRB the right to purchase 400,000 shares of its common shares at $2.50 per share at any time until the earlier of June 30, 2016 the date the land is exchanged with the USFS and an alternate date as determined between the parties as the due date of the loan.

       

    The Company has accounted for the IRRRB loan and the 400,000 common share warrants by allocating the $4,000,000 between the debt and the warrants by fair valuing the debt using a discount rate of 8% and allocating the residual of $550,124 to the warrants.

       

    As at January 31, 2012, the outstanding long term debt was as follows:


          January     January 31,     February 1,  
          31, 2012     2011     2010  
      Note payable $  3,450   $  8,500   $  10,499  
      Accrued interest and accretion   222     25     30  
      Total Debt   3,672     8,525     10,529  
      Less current portion   -     (6,750 )   (2,000 )
                         
      Long term debt $  3,672   $  1,775   $  8,529  

    F-20



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    8.

    Environmental Rehabilitation Provision

       

    As part of the consideration for the Cliffs Purchase Agreements (Note 6), the Company indemnified Cliffs for the liability for final reclamation and closure of the acquired property.

       

    Federal, state and local laws and regulations concerning environmental protection affect the Company’s operations. Under current regulations, the Company is contracted to indemnify Cliff’s requirement to meet performance standards to minimize environmental impact from operations and to perform site restoration and other closure activities. The Company’s provisions for future site closure and reclamation costs are based on known requirements. It is not currently possible to estimate the impact on operating results, if any, of future legislative or regulatory developments. The Company’s estimate of the present value of the obligation to reclaim the NorthMet Project is based upon existing reclamation standards at January 31, 2012 and under IFRS. Once the Company obtains its permit to mine the environmental and reclamation obligations will be direct with the governing bodies.

       

    The Company’s best estimate of the environmental rehabilitation provision at January 31, 2012 was $22,836,000 (January 31, 2011 - $15,719,000, February 1, 2010 - $13,699,000). This best estimate was based upon an January 31, 2012 undiscounted future cost of $23.9 million (January 31, 2011 - $24.4 million, February 1, 2010 - $21.6 million) for the first Cliffs transaction and $2.0 million (January 31, 2011 - $2.1 million, February 1, 2010 - $2.0 million) for Cliffs II, an annual inflation rate of 2.00%, risk-free interest rate of 2.55%, a mine life of 20 years and a reclamation period of 9 years. The revision in estimated cash flow balance during the period of $7,894,000 is mostly due to the decrease in the risk-free interest rate from 4.33% to 2.55% during the period.

       

    In April 2010, Cliffs entered into a consent decree with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (“MPCA”) relating to alleged violations on the Cliffs Erie Property. This consent decree required submission of Field Study Plan Outlines and Short Term Mitigation Plans, which have been approved by the MPCA. In April 2012, long-term mitigation plans were submitted to the MPCA for its review and approval, such approval remains outstanding to date. As part of its prior transactions with Cliffs (Note 6), PolyMet has agreed to indemnify Cliffs for certain on-going site environmental liabilities.

       

    There is substantial uncertainty related to the cost of implementation of the Long Term Mitigation Plan related to uncertainty about applicable water quality standards, the engineering scope and cost of mitigation required to meet those standards, and responsibility for the financial liability. As such, the Company is unable to estimate the liability for the Long Term Mitigation Plan at January 31, 2012. Outcomes that are unfavorable to us could result in material additional liability. The Company has included its best estimate of the liabilities related to this consent decree in its environmental rehabilitation provision for the year ended January 31, 2012.

    F-21



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     
       
    8.

    Environmental Rehabilitation Provision - Continued

    Adjustments to the provision were as follows:

          Year ended     Year ended  
          January 31,     January 31,  
          2012     2011  
      Balance – beginning of year $  15,719   $  13,699  
         Liabilities incurred   -     -  
         Liabilities discharged   (1,127 )   (457 )
         Accretion expense   350     480  
         Revisions in estimated cash flows   7,894     1,997  
         Total environmental rehabilitation provision   22,836     15,719  
         Less current portion   (828 )   (1,408 )
                   
      Balance – end of year $  22,008   $  14,311  

    F-22



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    9.

    Glencore Financing

       

    Details of fair value of the Glencore convertible debentures, as amended, were as follows:


          Year ended     Year ended  
          January 31,     January 31,  
          2012     2011  
      Balance – beginning of year $  27,631   $  24,866  
         Fair value adjustment on refinancing   -     706  
         Accretion and accrued interest   1,387     2,059  
                   
      Balance – end of year $  29,018   $  27,631  

    Since October 31, 2008 the Company and Glencore have entered into a series of financing agreements and a marketing agreement whereby Glencore committed to purchase all of our production of concentrates, metal, or intermediate products on market terms at the time of delivery, for at least the first five years of production. PolyMet agreed to propose to shareholders the election of Stephen Rowland, a senior executive of Glencore, as a director and also appointed a senior member of Glencore's technical team to PolyMet's Technical Steering Committee. As a result of the series of financing transactions and the purchase by Glencore of PolyMet common shares previously owned by Cliffs, Glencore's current ownership of PolyMet comprises:

     

    41,967,842 shares representing 23.6% of PolyMet's issued shares

       

     

    $25 million initial principal floating rate secured debentures due September 30, 2014. Including capitalized interest as of March 31, 2012, these debentures are exchangeable at $1.50 per share into 19,510,196 common shares of PolyMet upon PolyMet giving Glencore notice that it has received permits necessary to start construction of the NorthMet project and availability of senior construction finance in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore.

       

     

    Glencore has subscribed to 5 million common shares at $2.00 per share no later than October 15, 2012.

       

     

    Glencore holds warrants to purchase 5.6 million common shares at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day Value Weighted Average Price (“VWAP”) of PolyMet common shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and PolyMet provides notice to Glencore that it has received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore.

    If Glencore were to exercise all of its rights and obligations under these agreements, it would own 72,078,038 common shares of PolyMet, representing 34.7% on a partially diluted basis.

    2008 Agreement

    On October 31, 2008, the Company entered into a financing with Glencore for an aggregate of $50 million floating rate secured debentures which were due on September 30, 2011 (the "Debentures") to be issued by PolyMet US, and guaranteed by the Company. The Debentures bear interest at 12-month US dollar LIBOR plus 4%, compounded quarterly. Interest is payable in cash or by increasing the principal amount of the Debentures, at PolyMet’s option, for payments on or before September 30, 2009, and at Glencore’s option thereafter. At January 31, 2012, $4,018,000 of interest had been added to the principal amount of the debt since inception. The Company has provided security on the Debentures covering all of the assets of PolyMet and PolyMet US, including a pledge of PolyMet’s 100% shareholding in PolyMet US. The due date of the Debentures was extended under the 2010 and 2011 Agreements.

    F-23



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    The Debentures were exchangeable into common shares of PolyMet, at Glencore’s option, at $4.00 per share. The Issuer could, at its option, prepay the Debentures if PolyMet’s shares trade at a 20-day volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) equal to or exceeding $6.00, at which time, and at Glencore’s option, Glencore could exchange the Debentures for common shares of PolyMet within 30 days in lieu of payment. Repayment between October 1, 2009 and September 30, 2010 would have been at 105% of the then outstanding principal of the Debentures, repayment between October 1, 2010 and September 30, 2011 would have been at 102.5% of the outstanding principal. The terms of exchange were amended under the 2011 Agreement.

    $7.5 million of the Debentures were issued on October 31, 2008, an additional $7.5 million on December 22, 2008, $5 million on June 18, 2009 and $5 million on August 31, 2009.

    Glencore’s commitment to purchase, and the Company’s commitment to issue, the final $25 million of Debentures was cancelled under the 2010 Agreement described below.

    F-24



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

       

    On October 31, 2008, PolyMet issued to Glencore warrants (”Glencore Warrants”) to purchase 6.25 million common shares of PolyMet at $5.00 if exercised before the NorthMet Project entered into commercial production, or $6.00 thereafter. The Glencore Warrants were amended under the 2009 Agreement and cancelled under the 2010 Agreement described below.

       

    The Company accounted for the initial $7.5 million of the Debentures and the Glencore Warrants by allocating the $7.5 million to the warrants and debt based on their fair values, with the residual attributed to the exchangeable feature of the debt. The debt was fair valued using the difference between 9% and the 12 month LIBOR rate at October 31, 2008 plus 4% (7.2075%). Costs related to the financing of $652,000 were recorded against the convertible debt.

       

    The Company accounted for the second, third and fourth advances of $7.5 million, $5 million and $5 million, respectively, of the Debentures by allocating the principal amounts to the debt based on its fair value and the residual to the exchangeable feature of the debt. The debt was fair valued using the difference between 9% and the 12 month LIBOR rate at October 31, 2008 plus 4% (7.2075%). Costs related to the financings of $43,000, $16,000 and $12,000, respectively, were recorded against the convertible debt.

       

    2009 Agreement

       

    On November 17, 2009, the Company agreed to modify certain terms of the above transaction. Under the new terms the Glencore Warrants entitled Glencore to purchase 6.25 million common shares of PolyMet at $3.00 at any time on or before September 30, 2011. The incremental $158,000 increase in the fair value of the warrants due to the warrant exchange was debited to warrant amendment expense and credited to the warrants and share-based payment reserve. These warrants were cancelled as part of the November 2010 agreements described below.

       

    On November 17, 2009, PolyMet agreed to modify the terms of the final $25 million Tranche E of the $50 million Debenture with Glencore such that Tranche E, if drawn, could be exchanged at $2.65 per share. The first four tranches totalling $25 million (excluding capitalized interest) that had already been drawn would continue to be exchangeable at $4.00 per share.

       

    On November 17, 2009 PolyMet agreed to sell 9,433,962 common shares of the Company to Glencore at $2.65 per share for gross proceeds of $25 million. Closing and funding occurred in two transactions. On November 24, 2009, the Company closed the first tranche of 3,773,585 common shares at $2.65 per share for gross proceeds of $10 million. On January 26, 2010, the Company closed the second tranche of 5,660,377 common shares at $2.65 per common share for gross proceeds of $15 million. Transactions costs for these two financings totalled $499,000.

       

    2010 Agreement

       

    On November 12, 2010, the Company renegotiated its debenture financing from Glencore. The agreed amendments to the debenture financing were as follows:


     

    The maturity date of the $25 million in outstanding debentures, plus interest, was extended from September 30, 2011 to September 30, 2012. The Issued Debentures continued to be exchangeable into common shares of PolyMet at $4.00 per share, as agreed to in 2008.

    F-25



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    9.

    Glencore Financing - Continued


     

    Cancellation of Glencore’s commitment to purchase, and the Company’s commitment to issue, $25 million of Tranche E Debentures which were to be issued upon publication of the Final Environmental Impact Statement, receipt of a term sheet for construction financing, and other customary conditions.

       

     

    Cancellation of warrants to purchase 6.25 million common shares of PolyMet at $3.00 per share at any time until September 30, 2011 issued to Glencore in connection with the Debentures, and

       

     

    Issuance of warrants (the "2010 Warrants") to purchase 3 million common shares of PolyMet at $2.00 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, issued to Glencore in consideration of the amendments listed above. The terms of these warrants were amended under the 2011 Agreement.

    On November 12, 2010, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with Glencore to sell to Glencore in a private placement 15 million common shares at $2.00 per share for gross proceeds of $30 million, before deducting estimated offering expenses. Completion of the sale of these shares and funding occurred or are expected to occur in the following three tranches subject, in each case, to certain closing conditions:

     

    Tranche 1 of $10 million (closed on January 17, 2011);

       

     

     

    Tranche 2 of $10 million (closed on July 15, 2011), and

       

     

     

    Tranche 3 of $10 million will close on the earlier of (i) the date of the Company’s funding requirement as set forth in a budget agreed between PolyMet and Glencore, ii) within ten business days following receipt by PolyMet of key permits, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore, that will enable the start of construction of the Project, and iii) October 15, 2012.

    Glencore was also granted a right of first refusal to provide all material financings, subject to regulatory approval as long as it owns 10% or more of the issued and outstanding shares of PolyMet. As long as Glencore owns more than 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of PolyMet, it has the right to participate in any equity-related financing to maintain its partially diluted ownership interest (currently 23.6% of issued and 34.7% on a partially diluted basis).

    In accordance with IFRS, the November 12, 2010 transaction has been accounted for as an extinguishment of the existing convertible debt at that date with a book value of $26.546 million and reissuance of new convertible debt. Therefore all of the costs associated with the transaction have been recorded as a non-cash expense in the statement of loss and comprehensive loss of $2.931 million, comprising:

     

    The change in fair value of the conversion feature resulting from its term being extended from September 30, 2011 to September 30, 2012 of $1.633 million;

       
     

    The difference in fair value between the warrants to purchase 6.25 million common shares at $3.00 per share exercisable until September 30, 2011 and the warrants to purchase 3 million common shares at $2.00 per share exercisable until December 31, 2015 of $3.217 million;

       
     

    The amounts of discount and deferred costs remaining to be accreted and amortized over the life of the debt of $706,000, less

    F-26



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    9.

    Glencore Financing - Continued


     

    The premium of $2.625 million resulting from the price of the common shares sold or to be sold to Glencore compared with the market price at the time of the arrangement.

    The $875,000 of premium attributable to the first tranche of the financing was debited to share capital and credited to equity reserves – share premium in fiscal 2011 and the $875,000 of premium attributable to the second tranche of the financing was debited to share capital and credited to equity reserves share premium in fiscal 2012.

    2011 Agreement

    On November 30, 2011, PolyMet and Glencore entered into a definitive agreement to:

     

    Sell in a private placement to Glencore, 13,333,333 common shares at $1.50 per share for gross proceeds of $20 million (before deducting offering expenses) and issue to Glencore warrants (the 2011 Warrants) to purchase 2,600,000 common shares of PolyMet at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day Value Weighted Average Price (“VWAP”) of PolyMet shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and PolyMet provides notice to Glencore that it has received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore. Following satisfaction of the conditions for mandatory exercise, if Glencore does not elect to exercise the 2011 Warrants, the 2011 Warrants will expire. Approximately $7.0 million of the proceeds from the sale of these shares were used to repay outstanding notes (including interest) to Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (Note 7);

       

     

    Extend the term of the $25 million initial principal debentures from September 30, 2012 to the earlier of i) PolyMet giving Glencore ten days notice that PolyMet has received permits necessary to start construction of the NorthMet project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore (the "Early Maturity Event"), and ii) September 30, 2014, on which date all principal and interest accrued to such date will be due and payable. Glencore has the right to exchange some or all of the debentures at any time. Upon occurrence of the Early Maturity Event, the initial principal and capitalized interest will be exchanged into common shares of PolyMet at $1.50 per share, and

       

     

    Amend the terms of the warrants issued to Glencore in 2010 (the "2010 Warrants”) to conform to the 2011 Warrants, giving Glencore the right to acquire 3,000,000 common shares of PolyMet at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day VWAP of PolyMet shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and PolyMet provides notice to Glencore that it has received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore. Following satisfaction of the conditions for mandatory exercise, if Glencore does not elect to exercise the 2010 Warrants, the 2010 Warrants will expire.

    The transactions closed on December 6, 2011.

    The December 6, 2011 transaction has been accounted for as a modification of the existing convertible debt at that date with a book value of $28.779 million. Therefore all of the costs associated with the transaction have been recorded within Share Capital, comprising:

     

    The change in fair value of the conversion feature resulting from its term being extended from September 30, 2012 to September 30, 2014 of $2.400 million;

    F-27



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    9.

    Glencore Financing - Continued


     

    The difference in fair value between the warrants to purchase 3 million common shares at $2.00 per share exercisable until December 31, 2015 and the warrants to purchase 3 million common shares at $1.50 per share exercisable until December 31, 2015 of $177,000;

       

     

    The fair value of the warrants to purchase 2.6 million common shares at $1.50 per exercisable until December 31, 2015 of $1.708 million, less

       

     

    The premium of $4.667 million results from the agreed upon price of the common shares of $1.50 per share, compared with the market price at the time of the arrangement.

    F-28



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital

         
    a)

    Share Issuances for Cash

         

    On July 15, 2011, the Company closed the second tranche of its equity financing with Glencore for 5,000,000 common shares at $2.00 per share for gross proceeds of $10 million (Note 9). Transaction costs for the financing were $22,000. For accounting purposes, the $875,000 was allocated to equity reserves to reflect the premium per share received over the regulatory approved minimum price protection per share.

         

    On December 6, 2011, the Company closed an equity financing with Glencore for 13,333,333 commons shares at $1.50 per share for gross proceeds of $20 million (Note 9). Transaction costs for the financing were $171,000.

         

    During the year ended January 31 2012, the Company issued 1,185,000 shares (January 31, 2011 – 845,000) pursuant to the exercise of share options for total proceeds of $902,000 (January 31, 2011 - $808,000).

         
    b)

    Share Options and Restricted Shares

         

    Effective May 25, 2007, the Company adopted an Omnibus Share Compensation Plan (“Share Option Plan”), which was approved by the Company’s shareholders’ on June 27, 2007. The Share Option Plan covers the Company’s employees, directors, officers and consultants. The options are granted for varying terms ranging from two to seven years. The maximum number of common shares under the share option plan shall not exceed (i) 10% of the outstanding common shares of the Company at the time of granting of the options and (ii) 18,592,888 common shares of the Company, of which 3,967,500 common shares are reserved for issuance as awards other than options including the bonus shares (Note 16a)) and the restricted shares noted below.

         

    Details of share option activity were as follows:


          January 31, 2012     January 31,  
                2011  
      Outstanding - Beginning of period   11,630,000     13,075,000  
         Granted   750,000     300,000  
         Forfeited   -     (900,000 )
         Exercised   (1,185,000 )   (845,000 )
                   
      Outstanding - End of period   11,195,000     11,630,000  

    The weighted average share price on the dates the above options were exercised was $1.78 in the current year (prior year - $1.74) .

    F-29



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - Continued

         
    b)

    Share Options and Restricted Shares - Continued

         

    As at January 31, 2012, the following director, officer, consultant and employee share options were outstanding:


                      Number of  
          Exercise Price     Exercise Price     options  
      Expiry Date   (US$)     (CDN$)     outstanding  
      March 30, 2012   0.65*     0.65     50,000  
      May 1, 2012   0.85*     0.85     135,000  
      June 15, 2012   0.94*     0.94     40,000  
      September 19, 2012   1.35*     1.36     1,240,000  
      October 24, 2012   1.20*     1.20     200,000  
      December 5, 2012   1.15*     1.15     125,000  
      March 20, 2013   2.75*     2.76     2,400,000  
      June 19, 2013   2.96*     2.97     325,000  
      September 1, 2013   3.81*     3.82     300,000  
      September 22, 2013   3.50*     3.51     75,000  
      January 5, 2014   3.29*     3.30     525,000  
      February 13, 2014   2.99           1,250,000  
      March 12, 2014   2.92           250,000  
      March 23, 2014   2.89           50,000  
      September 4, 2014   3.00           360,000  
      December 12, 2014   3.05           205,000  
      January 11, 2015   3.03           70,000  
      January 31, 2015   2.87           100,000  
      February 15, 2015   2.72           500,000  
      June 2, 2015   3.92           100,000  
      July 30, 2015   3.22           175,000  
      January 30, 2016   0.82           585,000  
      February 17, 2016   0.82           910,000  
      October 15, 2016   2.67           115,000  
      January 8, 2017   3.54           60,000  
      January 25, 2018   2.17           300,000  
      March 10, 2018   2.04           750,000  
      Weighted average exercise price and total number of options outstanding   2.32         11,195,000  

    * For information purposes, those options issued in Canadian dollars have been translated to the Company’s reporting currency using the exchange rate as at January 31, 2012.

    As at January 31, 2012 all options had vested and were exercisable, with the exception of 1,812,500, which vest upon completion of specific targets.

    Subsequent to year end, on March 8, 2012, the Company granted 1,150,000 options to certain independent directors and management with an average exercise price of USD$1.19 per option.

    F-30



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - Continued

         
    c)

    Share-Based Compensation

         

    During the year ended January 31, 2012, the Company granted 750,000 options to directors with an average exercise price of $2.04 per option. The fair value of these options was estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following weighted average assumptions:


      Risk-free interest rate 1.71%
      Expected dividend yield Nil
      Expected forfeiture rate Nil
      Expected share price volatility 75.18%
      Expected option life in years 1.40

    The expected forfeiture rate reflects the Company's expectations that its key staff and directors who have received incentive options will continue to work for the Company. The Company has no current plans to reduced staffing levels and anticipates that the likelihood of resignations will diminish as the permitting process proceeds.

    The weighted fair value of options granted during the period was $0.68. Option pricing models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the estimate of the share price volatility. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, and therefore, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of the Company’s share options.

    During the year ended January 31, 2012, the Company recorded $962,000 for share-based compensation in its accounts as an expense of $625,000 and as a debit to mineral property, plant and equipment of $337,000, with the offsetting entries to warrants and share-based payment reserve.

    During the year ended January 31, 2012, the Company granted bonuses comprising 327,500 restricted shares for U.S. employees and consultants and restricted share units for Canadian employees and consultants. 50% of each award to be issued upon receipt of permits and the balance to be issued upon the start of production. The restricted shares had a fair value of $668,000 which is being amortized over the vesting periods. During the current year, the Company recorded $274,000 for share-based compensation relating to these units in its accounts as an expense of $95,000 and as a debit to mineral property, plant and equipment of $179,000, with the offsetting entries to warrants and share-based payment reserve. These amounts are included in the totals in the preceding paragraph. 259,000 shares of the restricted shares were issued in trust to a third party.

    F-31



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - Continued

         
    c)

    Share Based Compensation - Continued

         

    During the year ended 31 January 2011, the Company granted 300,000 options to directors, officers, consultants and employees with an average exercise price of USD$2.20 per option. The fair value of these options was estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following weighted average assumptions:


      Risk-free interest rate 1.68%
      Expected dividend yield Nil
      Expected share price volatility 64.79%
      Expected option life in years 1.50

    The weighted fair value of options granted during the period was $0.73. Option pricing models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the estimate of the share price volatility. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, and therefore, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of the Company’s share options.

    During the year ended 31 January 2011, the Company recorded $275,000 for share based compensation in its accounts as an expense of $93,000 and a debit to mineral property, plant and equipment of $182,000, with the offsetting entries going to contributed surplus. During the year ended 31 January 2011, the Company also recorded a debit to contributed surplus and a credit to share based compensation expense of $212,000 to reverse prior accounting for share options which had yet to vest and were forfeited in the period.

    During the year ended 31 January 2010, the Company granted 1,585,000 options to directors, officers, consultants and employees with an average exercise price of USD$1.14 per option. The fair value of these options was estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following weighted average assumptions:

      Risk-free interest rate 1.30% to 1.69%
      Expected dividend yield Nil
      Expected share price volatility 81.97% to 107.32%
      Expected option life in years 2.33

    The weighted fair value of options granted during the period was $0.56. Option pricing models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the estimate of the share price volatility. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, and therefore, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of the Company’s share options.

    During the year ended 31 January 2010, the Company recorded $1,240,000 for share based compensation in its accounts as an expense of $915,000 and a debit to mineral property, plant and equipment of $325,000, with the offsetting entries going to contributed surplus. The total for the year included the amortization of the fair value cost of existing share options and the impact of the two year extension of the term of all options outstanding at 24 June 2009 ($339,000).

    F-32



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - Continued

         
    d)

    Warrants and Share-Based Payment Reserve

         

    The warrants and share-based payment reserve represents accumulated share-based compensation expense and warrants issued, reduced by the fair value of the share options and warrants exercised.

         

    Details were as follows:


          Year ended     Year ended  
          January 31,     January 31,  
          2012     2011  
      Balance – Beginning of year $  37,920   $  37,591  
         Fair value of share-based compensation   962     63  
         Refinancing of convertible debt (Note 9)   4,285     2,225  
                   
         Bonus Shares for Milestones 4 cost amortization (Note 16a))   1,235     1,593  
         Forfeiture of Bonus Shares for Milestone 4 (Note 16a))   -     (1,682 )
         Deferred income tax charge (Note 10e)   (657 )   (1,390 )
         Long-term debt – warrants to IRRRB (Note 10e))   550     -  
         Fair value of share options and warrants exercised   (663 )   (480 )
      Balance – End of year $  43,632   $  37,920  

      e)

    Share Purchase Warrants

         
     

    Details of share purchase warrant activity were as follows:


          January 31, 2012     January 31, 2011  
                Weighted           Weighted  
                Average           Average  
                Exercise           Exercise  
          Warrants     Price     Warrants     Price  
                             
      Warrants outstanding - beginning of year   7,010,000     4.00     15,202,046     3.74  
           Expired (Note 10e))   (4,010,000 )   5.00     (4,942,046 )   3.23  
           Cancelled (Note 9)   -     -     (6,250,000 )   3.00  
           Amended (Note 9)   (3,000,000 )   2.00     -     -  
           Amended (Note 9)   3,000,000     1.50     -     -  
           Issued (Notes7 and 9)   3,000,000     1.63     3,000,000     2.00  
      Warrants outstanding – end of year   6,000,000     1.57     7,010,000     4.00  

    F-33



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - continued

         
    e)

    Share Purchase Warrants

         

    On April 17, 2007, the Company issued 7,500,000 warrants in connection with a non-brokered private placement financing of 15 million units at $2.75 per unit, with each unit comprising one common share and one-half of one warrant. Each whole warrant was exercisable into a common share at a price of $4.00 at any time until October 13, 2008. In connection with the private placement, the Company has paid finders’ fees including an additional 520,000 broker warrants having the same terms as the warrants described above.

         

    On October 10, 2008, the Company announced that it received the consent from the holders of more than two-thirds of the 8,020,000 warrants issued as part of the April 2007 private placement to exchange those warrants into:


     

    4,010,000 warrants, each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one share of PolyMet common shares at $3.00 per share at any time until October 13, 2009, and

       

     

    4,010,000 warrants, each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one share of PolyMet common shares at $5.00 if exercised before the NorthMet Project commenced commercial production, or $6.00 thereafter and prior to August 31, 2011.

    The incremental $544,000 increase in the fair value of the warrants due to the warrant exchange was debited to warrant amendment expense and credited to the warrants and share-based payment reserve in the year ended January 31, 2009.

    In October and November 2009, the Company received the consent from holders of more than two-thirds of the above warrants to, in two steps, exchange the 4,010,000 warrants due to expire on October 13, 2009 for 4,010,000 warrants, each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one share of PolyMet common shares at $3.00 per share at any time until December 31, 2010, with certain provisions for acceleration. The incremental $4,762,000 increase in the fair value of the warrants due to the warrant exchange was debited to warrant amendment expense and credited to the warrants and share-based payment reserve.

    Warrants to purchase 167,954 common shares of PolyMet were exercised in the year ended January 31, 2010. On December 31, 2010, the unexercised warrants, to purchase 3,842,046 common shares of PolyMet at $3.00 per share, expired. The Company recorded a deferred income tax charge as the expiration of the warrants triggered a capital gain for tax purposes which was offset by the application of tax losses carried forward resulting in a credit of $1,219,000.

    On August 31, 2011, the unexercised warrants, to purchase 4,010,000 common shares of PolyMet at $5.00 per share if exercised before the NorthMet Project has produced a cumulative total of 20,000 metric tonnes of concentrate, or $6.00 thereafter, expired. The Company recorded a deferred income tax charge as the expiration of the warrants triggered a capital gain for tax purposes which was offset by the application of tax losses carried forward resulting in a credit of $657,000.

    F-34



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - continued

         
    e)

    Share Purchase Warrants - continued

         

    On October 31, 2008, the Company issued 6,250,000 warrants ("Purchase Warrants") to Glencore as partial consideration under the financing agreement described in Note 9. The warrants entitled Glencore to purchase 6.25 million common shares of PolyMet at $5.00 if exercised before the NorthMet project has produced a total of 20,000 metric tonnes of concentrate, or $6.00 thereafter. The warrants would have expired on September 30, 2011.

         

    On November 17, 2009, the Company amended the terms such that the Purchase Warrants entitled Glencore to purchase 6,250,000 common shares of PolyMet at $3.00 and expire on September 30, 2011.

         

    On November 12, 2010, the Company cancelled warrants giving Glencore the right to purchase 6,250,000 common shares of PolyMet at $3.00 at any time until September 30, 2011 and issued warrants giving Glencore the right to purchase 3,000,000 common shares of PolyMet at $2.00 at any time until December 31, 2015, in consideration of the amendments to the debenture agreements.

         

    On December 6, 2011, PolyMet issued to Glencore warrants (the 2011 Warrants) to purchase 2,600,000 common shares of PolyMet at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day VWAP of PolyMet shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and PolyMet provides notice to Glencore that it has received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore. Following satisfaction of the conditions for mandatory exercise, if Glencore does not elect to exercise the 2011 Warrants, the 2011 Warrants will expire. On that same date, the Company agreed to amend the terms of the warrants issued to Glencore in 2010 (the "2010 Warrants”) to conform to the 2011 Warrants, giving Glencore the right to acquire 3,000,000 common shares of PolyMet at $1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015, subject to mandatory exercise if the 20-day VWAP of PolyMet shares is equal to or greater than 150% the exercise price and PolyMet provides notice to Glencore that it has received permits necessary to start construction of the North Met Project and availability of senior construction finance, in a form reasonably acceptable to Glencore. Following satisfaction of the conditions for mandatory exercise, if Glencore does not elect to exercise the 2010 Warrants, the 2010 Warrants will expire. Note 9 - 2011 Agreement.

         

    On June 30, 2011 PolyMet closed a $4,000,000 loan (Note 7 – also includes use of proceeds) from Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board ("IRRRB"). In consideration for making of the loan to the Company, PolyMet has issued warrants giving the IRRRB the right to purchase 400,000 common share of the Company at $2.50 per share at any time until the earlier of June 30, 2016 or one year after permits are received.

    F-35



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    10.

    Share Capital - continued

         
    e)

    Share Purchase Warrants - continued

         

    On October 31, 2006, the Company issued 600,000 warrants to BNP Paribas Loan Services as partial consideration under the agreement described in Note 16b). These warrants had an exercise price of $4.00 per share and expired on October 30, 2010. The fair value of these warrants was $1,197,000. Further, upon delivering a bona fide offer of project financing, warrants to purchase an additional 500,000 shares of the Company at a price of $4.00 per share at any time prior to October 30, 2010 would have vested. All of these warrants expired on October, 30 2010. The Company recorded a deferred income tax recovery as the expiration of the warrants triggered a capital gain for tax purposes which was offset by the application of tax losses carried forward resulting in a credit of $171,000.

         
    11.

    Finance Income and Costs

         

    Finance income and costs for the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011 were comprised of:


          2012     2011  
      Interest (income) expense $  1   $  19  
      Accretion of environmental rehabilitation provision   350     480  
      Finance income and costs $  351   $  499  

    12.        Supplemental Disclosure With Respect to Statements of Cash Flows

    During the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011 the Company entered into the following non-cash investing and financing activities:

          2012     2011  
      Changes in trade payables and accrued liabilities related to investing activities $  998   $  176  
      Accretion and accrued interest   1,387     2,059  
      Deferred income tax recovery   (657 )   (1,390 )
      Share-based compensation   962     63  
      Milestone 4 bonus share cost amortization   1,235     (98 )

    F-36



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    13.        Related Party Transactions

    The Company conducted transactions with key management personnel, comprising of certain members of senior management, officers, directors and persons or companies related to these individuals, and paid or accrued amounts during the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011, as follows:

          2012     2011  
      Wages and other short-term benefits $  950   $  825  
      Termination benefits   -     -  
      Other long-term benefits   32     21  
      Commission on sale of used drill   200        
      Share-based compensation   738     -  
                   
      Total $  1,920   $  846  

    The amounts charged to the Company for the services provided have been determined by negotiation among the parties.

    Included in key management compensation were consulting fees of $nil paid during the year ended January 31, 2012 (January 31, 2011 - $59,000) to Dr. Dreisinger, a director of the Company, primarily in connection with activities related to the processing / technical side of the NorthMet project and related expenses (the latter were supported by invoices and receipts). The consulting fees were based on a monthly fee of Canadian $5,500 plus general sales tax. Throughout the term of his engagement, Dr. Dreisinger conducted in-person and telephonic meetings with Mr. William Murray, then the Company’s Executive Chairman, and other members of management at which he provided both verbal and written updates on the status of test work and made recommendations for future activities. These meetings occurred approximately every two to three weeks for the past six years.

    The agreement with Dr. Dreisinger was entered into at a time when the Company’s current business plans were being formulated and were month to month and oral in nature. The agreement was approved by Mr. William Murray. It was discussed with the Company’s board of directors who did not consider that a formal approval and written contract was necessary at that time. The Company believes that the contract was at terms at least as good as could be obtained from third parties. The agreement with Dr. Dreisinger was terminated effective January 31, 2011.

    During the quarter ended January 31, 2012, PolyMet sold a used drill for $3.69 million. A company controlled by a Director of PolyMet received a commission of $200,000 related to this sale.

    As a result of Glencore’s ownership of 23.6% of the Company it is also a related party. Transactions with Glencore are described in notes 9 and 16d.

    F-37



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    14.

    Income Taxes

         
    a)

    Income tax expense

         

    The provision for income taxes reported differs from the amount computed by applying cumulative Canadian federal and provincial income tax rates to the loss before the tax provision due to the following:


          2012     2011  
      Net loss $  (3,045 ) $  (6,692 )
      Statutory tax rate   26.5%     28.5%  
      Recovery of income taxes computed at statutory rates   (807 )   (1,907 )
      Difference in foreign tax rates   (118 )   (320 )
      Non-deductible loss on refinancing with Glencore         835  
      Other non-deductible items and other  

    268

        2  
      Deferred income tax recovery $  (657 ) $  (1,390 )

      b)

    Deferred tax assets have not been recognized in respect of the following items:


          2012     2011  
      Non-capital losses and other future tax deductions $  20,307   $  16,278  
      Mineral properties, deferred development and capital assets   (3,263 )   (3,556 )
      Other assets   157     112  
      Unrecognized deferred income assets $  17,201   $  12,834  

    As at January 31, 2012, the Company had deductible temporary differences for which deferred tax assets have not been recognized because it is not probable that future profit will be available against which the Company can utilize the benefits.

    F-38



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    14.

    Income Taxes - Continued

       

    As of January 31, 2012, the Company has Canadian loss carry forwards of approximately $7.7 million (2011 - $10.3 million) and US loss carry forwards of approximately $48.4 million (2011 - $39.9 million) available to reduce future years’ income for tax purposes. The Company recognizes the benefit of tax losses only to the extent of anticipated future taxable income in relevant jurisdictions. The tax loss carry forwards expire as follows:


      Expiry of Tax Losses   Amount  
      January 31, 2019 $  835  
      January 31, 2020   693  
      January 31, 2021   827  
      January 31, 2022   937  
      January 31, 2023   859  
      January 31, 2024   655  
      January 31, 2025   945  
      January 31, 2026   3,277  
      January 31, 2027   7,606  
      January 31, 2028   6,445  
      January 31, 2029   6,180  
      January 31, 2030   8,195  
      January 31, 2031   10,170  
      January 31, 2032   8,446  
        $  56,070  

    F-39



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    15.       Segmented Information

    The Company is in the permitting stage of developing its mineral properties in the U.S. and provides for its financing and administrative functions at the head office located in Canada. Segmented information on a geographic basis was as follows:

      January 31, 2012   Canada     U.S.     Consolidated  
      Cash and equivalents $  15,850   $  1,628   $  17,478  
      Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment $  19   $  170,670   $  170,689  
      Identifiable assets $  16,235   $  173,336   $  189,571  
      Total Liabilities $  29,333   $  27,872   $  57,205  
      Deferred income tax recovery $  (657 ) $  -   $  (657 )
      Segment operating loss $  2,020   $  1,025   $  3,045  

      January 31, 2011   Canada     U.S.     Consolidated  
      Cash and equivalents $  10,023   $  338   $  10,361  
      Asset held for sale $  -   $  3,420   $  3,420  
      Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment $  39   $  141,896   $  141,935  
      Identifiable assets $  9,010   $  147,726   $  156,736  
      Total liabilities $  27,905   $  26,414   $  54,319  
      Financing cost write-off $  1,830   $  -   $  1,830  
      Loss (gain) on asset held for sale $  -   $  520   $  520  
      Deferred income tax recovery $  (1,390 ) $  -   $  (1,390 )
      Segment operating loss $  5,031   $  1,631   $  6,662  

    F-40



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    16.

    Commitments and Contingencies

         
    a)

    The Company has instituted a share bonus plan as part of its employment, management and consulting contracts for key directors, management and project personnel. This bonus plan adds incentive for key personnel to reach certain prescribed milestones required to reach commercial production at the NorthMet Project. As at January 31, 2012, the Company had received shareholder approval of the Bonus Shares for Milestones 1 to 4 and regulatory approval for Milestones 1, 2 and 3. Milestone 4 is subject to regulatory approval. To January 31, 2012, 5,240,000 shares have been issued for the achievement of Milestones 1, 2 and 3.

         

    The summary of the share bonus plan is as follows:


        Bonus Shares  
      Milestone 1 1,590,000 issued
      Milestone 2 1,300,000 issued
      Milestone 3 2,350,000 issued
      Milestone 4 3,640,000 (i) and (ii)

      (i)

    Milestone 4 – Commencement of commercial production at the NorthMet Project at a time when the Company has not less than 50% ownership interest.

         
      (ii)

    At the Annual General Meeting of shareholders of the Company, held on June 17, 2008, the disinterested shareholders approved the bonus shares for Milestone 4. The bonus shares allocated to Milestone 4 are valued at $3.80, the Company’s closing trading price on June 17, 2008.

         
     

    During the year ended January 31, 2012, the Company recorded $1,235,000 related to Milestone 4 (January 31, 2011 – $(89,000), these amounts were capitalized to Mineral Property, Plant and Equipment. The fair value of these unissued bonus shares is being amortized, over its expected life, until the estimated date of issuance. The prior year period reversal includes $1,682,000 representing the forfeiture of entitlement to bonus shares by individuals upon resignation or not continuing to stand as Directors of the Company.

    F-41



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    16.

    Commitments and Contingencies - Continued

         
    b)

    On October 31, 2006 the Company entered into an agreement with BNP Paribas Loan Services (“BNPP”) whereby BNPP agreed to advise and assist PolyMet in all aspects of preparation for construction finance. As part of this agreement, BNPP was issued warrants to purchase 600,000 of the Company’s common shares at a price of $4.00 per share at any time prior to October 30, 2010. The fair value of these warrants was $1,197,000. Further, upon delivering a bona fide offer of project financing, warrants to purchase an additional 500,000 shares of the Company at a price of $4.00 per share at any time prior to October 30, 2010 would vest. As part of the agreement, PolyMet would also pay BNPP a monthly fee for its advice and assistance and pay the costs for BNPP’s independent engineers. The Company decided to review alternatives for construction financing and decided not to renew its agreement with BNPP which expired on July 31, 2010. As such, the $1,830,000, $1,197,000 of which was non-cash related to the fair value of warrants issued, recorded as a deferred financing cost asset was written off to the consolidated statement of loss and comprehensive loss in the year ended January 31, 2011.

         
    c)

    On October 13, 2008, the Company entered into a collateral pledge agreement wherein it pledged a used drill rig which it owned against amounts due to a supplier for rebuilding the drill rig. The drill rig was reclassified as held for sale and was sold in January 2012 and PolyMet was released from the collateral pledge agreement.

         
    d)

    On October 31, 2008, the Company entered into agreements with Glencore wherein Glencore will provide marketing services covering concentrates, metal, or intermediate products at prevailing market terms for at least the first five years of production.

         
    e)

    On January 31, 2012, the Company had outstanding commitments related to equipment, rent, consultants and the environmental review process of approximately $2.2 million almost all of which is due over the next year.

         
    f)

    At January 31, 2012 the Company had non-binding commitments of $381,000, all due in the current year, to pay options to maintain its right to acquire certain lands that it will need at permitting. These lands include land that the Company expects to exchange with the USFS for surface rights at the mine site and land for wetland credits.

    F-42



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    16.

    Commitments and Contingencies - Continued


      g)

    The following table lists the known accounts payable and debt at January 31, 2012:


          Payments due by period (US$000’s)  
          Total     Less than 1     1 – 3 years     3 – 5 years     More than 5  
      Contractual Obligations         year                 years  
      Trade payables and accrued liabilities $ 1,679   $ 1,679   $ -   $ -   $ -  
      Long-term debt obligations   38,146     -     33,132     5,014     -  
      Environmental rehabilitation provision   25,828     828     582     538     23,880  
      Firm Commitments   2,200     2,145     55     -     -  
      Total $ 67,853   $ 4,652   $ 33,769   $ 5,552   $ 23,880  

    F-43



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    17.

    Financial Instruments and Risk Management

       

    The carrying values of the Company’s financial instruments are classified into the following categories:


          January 31,     January 31,  
          2012     2011  
                   
      Loans and Receivables (1) $  17,478   $  10,361  
      Available-for-sale   30     66  
      Other loans and receivables   440     318  
      Other financial liabilities (2)   34,369     38,600  

      (1)

    Includes cash and equivalents.

      (2)

    Includes trade payables and accrued liabilities, convertible debt and long term debt.

    The Company has determined the estimated fair values of its financial instruments based on appropriate valuation methodologies.

    Risks Arising from Financial Instruments and Risk Management

    The Company’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including currency), credit risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk and investment risk. Reflecting the current stage of development of the Company’s NorthMet Project, PolyMet’s overall risk management program focuses on facilitating the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and seeks to minimize potential adverse effects on PolyMet’s ability to execute its business plan.

    Risk management is the responsibility of executive management. Material risks are identified and monitored and are discussed with the audit committee and the board of directors.

    Currency Risk

    The Company incurs expenditures in Canada and in the United States. The functional and reporting currency of the Company and its subsidiary is the United States dollar. Foreign exchange risk arises because the amount of Canadian dollar cash and equivalents, trade and other receivables, investment or trade payables and accrued liabilities will vary in United States dollar terms due to changes in exchange rates.

    As the majority of the Company’s expenditures are in United States dollars, the Company has kept a significant portion of its cash and equivalents in United States dollars. The Company has not hedged its exposure to currency fluctuations.

    F-44



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    17.

    Financial Instruments and Risk Management - Continued

       

    As at January 31, 2012, the Company was exposed to currency risk through the following assets and liabilities denominated in Canadian dollars:


          January 31,     January 31,  
          2012     2011  
                   
      Loans and Receivables (1) $  305   $  554  
      Available-for-sale   30     66  
      Other loans and receivables   95     102  
      Other financial liabilities (2)   (239 )   (192 )
        $  191   $  530  

      (1)

    Includes cash and equivalents.

      (2)

    Includes trade payables and accrued liabilities.

    Based on the above net exposures, as at January 31, 2012, a 10% change in the Canadian / United States exchange rate would have impacted the Company’s loss by $19,000.

    Credit Risk

    Credit risk arises on cash and equivalents held with banks and financial institutions, as well as credit exposure on outstanding trade and other receivables. The maximum exposure to credit risk is equal to the carrying value of the financial assets of $17,918,000.

    The Company’s cash and equivalents are held through a large Canadian financial institution.

    Liquidity Risk

    Liquidity risk arises through the excess of financial obligations over available financial assets due at any point in time. The Company’s objective in managing liquidity risk is to maintain sufficient readily available reserves in order to meet its liquidity requirements at any point in time. The Company achieves this by maintaining sufficient cash and equivalents.

    Interest Rate Risk

    Interest rate risk arises on cash and equivalents and long term debt and fluctuations in the related interest rates. The Company has not hedged any of its interest rate risk.

    As at January 31, 2012, the Company was exposed to interest rate risk through the following assets and liabilities:

          January 31,     January 31,  
          2012     2011  
      Loans and receivables (1) $  17,478   $  10,361  
      Other financial liabilities (2)   32,690     36,156  

      (1)

    Includes cash and equivalents.

      (2)

    Represents long term debt (Note 7) and convertible debt (Note 9).

    F-45



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    17.

    Financial Instruments and Risk Management - Continued

       

    Investment Risk

       

    The Company’s investment in the common shares of a publicly traded Canadian mining company bears investment risk. The maximum exposure to investment risk is equal to the carrying value of the investment.

       

    The Company's investment in the NorthMet Project (Note 6) is also at risk since the NorthMet Project is pledged in part as security to Cliffs and otherwise is pledged wholly as security to Glencore.

       

    As at January 31, 2012, the Company was exposed to investment risk through the following assets:


          31 January     31 January  
          2012     2011  
                   
      Available-for-sale (1) $ 30   $  66  

    (1)    Includes investment.

    Fair Value Measurements

    PolyMet’s financial assets and liabilities are measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis and classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. There are three levels of fair value hierarchy that prioritize the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value, with level 1 inputs having the highest priority. The levels and the valuation techniques used to value the Company’s financial assets and liabilities are described below:

      Level 1 –

    Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. Investments in marketable securities are valued using quoted market prices in active markets, obtained from securities exchanges. Accordingly, these items are included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

       

      Level 2 –

    Quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

       

      Level 3 –

    Unobservable (supported by little or no market activity) prices.

    Loans and receivables are recorded at face value. Trade and other receivables are short-term in nature and represent the initial price of the good or service. Long term and convertible debt have been fair valued using assumptions with respect to interest rates relevant to similar debt taking into account the collateral involved.

    The fair values of the Company's financial assets, loans and receivables and trade and other receivables approximate their carrying amounts. The Company’s investment is valued using quoted market prices in active markets, obtained from securities exchanges and accordingly is Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

    The fair value of the Company's trade payables and accrued liabilities, long term debt and convertible debt approximate their carrying amounts.

    F-46



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    17.

    Financial Instruments and Risk Management - Continued

       

    Capital Management

       

    Similar to other companies in the development stage, the Company is in discussions with certain parties to provide funding which will enable the Company to execute its business plan. With the completion of the DFS and taking into account the current permitting process the Company is in, PolyMet will require additional funds through Project construction. Funding for the Project could come from a number of sources and include internal cash flows (for the second stage of the construction), bank project financing and capital market financing. During the upcoming fiscal year, the Company’s objective is to identify the source or sources from which it will obtain the capital required to complete the Project.

       

    The Company has no externally imposed capital requirements. In the management of capital, the Company includes the components of shareholders’ equity, convertible debt and long-term debt. The Company manages the capital structure and makes adjustments to it depending on economic conditions and the rate of anticipated expenditures. To maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Company may attempt to issue new shares, issue new debt, acquire or dispose of assets.

       

    In order to assist in management of its capital requirements, the Company prepares expenditure budgets that are updated as necessary depending on various factors. The budgets are approved by the Company’s Board of Directors.

       

    Although the Company plans to have the resources to carry out its plans and operations through January 31, 2013, it does not currently have sufficient capital to meet its estimated project capital expenditure requirements and is currently in discussions to arrange sufficient capital to meet these requirements.

    F-47



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    18.

    Transition to IFRS

         

    These are the Company’s first consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.

         

    The accounting policies set out in Note 3 have been applied in preparing the financial statements for the year ended January 31, 2012, the comparative information presented in these financial statements for the year ended January 31, 2011 and in the preparation of an opening IFRS balance sheet at February 1, 2010, the Company’s date of transition.

         

    For its opening IFRS balance sheet, the Company has adjusted amounts previously reported in financial statements prepared using Canadian GAAP. An explanation of how the transition from Canadian GAAP to IFRS has affected the Company’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows is provided in the following footnotes and tables.

         
    a)

    Initial Elections Upon Adoption

         

    Set out below are the applicable IFRS 1 exemptions and exceptions applied in the conversion from Canadian GAAP to IFRS.

         

    IFRS Exemption Options

         

    Business Combinations

         

    IFRS 1 provides the option to apply IFRS 3 Business Combinations, prospectively from the transition date or from a specific date prior to the transition date. This provides relief from full retrospective application that would require restatement of all business combinations prior to the transition date. The Company elected to apply IFRS 3 prospectively to business combinations occurring after February 1, 2010, its transition date. Business combinations occurring prior to the transition date have not been restated.

         

    Decommissioning, Restoration and Similar Liabilities

         

    The Company has elected not to apply IFRIC 1 Changes in Existing Decommissioning, Restoration and Similar Liabilities for changes related to the environmental rehabilitation provision that occurred prior to February 1, 2010. As such, the Company calculated its environmental rehabilitation provision in accordance with IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets at February 1, 2010. The provision was then discounted to the date the obligation first arose using a historical discount rate and added to the cost of the related asset in mineral property, plant and equipment.

         

    Share-Based Compensation

         

    The Company has elected to apply IFRS 2 Share-based Payment only to equity instruments granted after November 7, 2002 that remained unvested at February 1, 2010, the date of transition to IFRS.

    F-48



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    18.

    Transition to IFRS - Continued


     

    IFRS Mandatory Exceptions

         
     

    In accordance with the mandatory exception in IFRS 1 for estimates, the estimates used as at February 1, 2010 are consistent with the estimates as at the same date made in conformity with Canadian GAAP.

         
     

    The other compulsory exceptions of IFRS 1 have not been applied as they are not relevant to the Company.

         
      b)

    Reconciliations of Canadian GAAP to IFRS

         
     

    IFRS 1 requires an entity to reconcile equity, comprehensive income and cash flows for prior periods. The following tables represent the reconciliations from Canadian GAAP to IFRS for the respective periods noted for equity and total comprehensive income.

    Reconciliation of equity between Canadian GAAP and IFRS as at February 1, 2010:

            Share     Contributed                 Total  
        Note   Capital     Surplus1     AOCL2     Deficit     Equity  
      As reported under Canadian GAAP   $ 132,066   $  36,979   $  71   $  (71,549 ) $  97,567  
         Change to initial fair value of convertible
       debt conversion factor and warrants
    (i)   -     612     -     -     612  
         Adjustment to fair value of environmental
       rehabilitation provision
    (ii)   -     -     -     (534 )   (534 )
                                       
      As reported under IFRS   $ 132,066   $  37,591   $  71   $  (72,083 ) $  97,645  

      1

    Contributed surplus was reclassified to warrants and share-based payment equity reserve under IFRS

      2

    Accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) was reclassified to available for sale revaluation equity reserve under IFRS

    F-49



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    18.

    Transition to IFRS - Continued

    Reconciliation of equity between Canadian GAAP and IFRS as at January 31, 2011:

            Share     Share     Contributed                 Total  
        Note   Capital     Premium     Surplus1     AOCL2     Deficit     Equity  
                                             
      As reported under Canadian GAAP   $ 142,373   $     $  39,083   $  (6 ) $  (78,832 ) $  102,618  
                                             
         Change to initial fair value of convertible
       debt conversion factor and warrants
    (i)   -     -     612     -     -     612  
         Reclassify share premium (iii)   -     875     (875 )   -     -     -  
         Adjustment to fair value of environmental
       rehabilitation provision
    (ii)   -     -     -     -     (534 )   (534 )
         Change in loss on refinancing of convertible
       debt
    (i)   -     -     (900 )   -     716     (184 )
         Change in accretion of environmental
       rehabilitation provision
    (ii)       -         -     (95 )   (95 )
                                             
      As reported under IFRS   $ 142,373   $  875   $  37,920   $  (6 ) $  (78,745 ) $  102,417  

      1

    Contributed surplus was reclassified to warrants and share-based payment equity reserve under IFRS

      2

    Accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) was reclassified to available for sale revaluation equity reserve under IFRS

    Reconciliation of total comprehensive loss between Canadian GAAP and IFRS the year ended January 31, 2011:

            Year ended    
            January 31,    
        Note   2011  
      Total comprehensive loss - under Canadian GAAP   $ 7,360  
         Change in loss on refinancing of convertible debt (i)   (716 )
         Change in accretion of environmental rehabilitation provision (ii)   95  
               
      Total comprehensive loss – as reported under IFRS   $ 6,739  

      c)

    Explanations of Reconciliations of Canadian GAAP to IFRS

         
     

    The transition from Canadian GAAP to IFRS has had no effect on the net cash flows reported by the Company. The changes made to the statements of consolidated earnings and consolidated balance sheets have resulted in reclassification of various amounts on the statements of cash flows, however as there have been no changes to the net cash flows, no reconciliations have been prepared.


      i)

    Convertible Debt – Glencore Financing

         
     

    Under IFRS, the value attributable to the conversion factor of convertible debt is the residual of the overall instrument’s fair value, after the fair value of the debt is determined. As was permitted under Canadian GAAP for the Glencore financing, the Company had allocated values to the debt, the conversion factor and warrants on a fair value pro-rata basis.

    F-50



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    18.

    Transition to IFRS - Continued


     

    The transition to IFRS resulted in a decrease in the initial fair value of debt of $612,000, resulting in a fair value of $23,380,170 and an increase in the fair value of the conversion factor and fair value of warrants of $612,000.

         
     

    Interest and accretion associated with the debt is capitalized to mineral property, plant and equipment. The change in the initial fair value of the debt resulted in an increase capitalized interest and accretion costs of $225,000 at February 1, 2010 and $426,000 at January 31, 2011.

         
     

    The convertible debt was renegotiated in November 2010, resulting in a loss on extinguishment of the existing debt. Under IFRS, the loss on refinancing of convertible debt was $2,931,000, a decrease of $716,000 as calculated under Canadian GAAP. The components of the loss on refinancing of convertible debt are disclosed in Note 9.

         
      ii)

    Environmental Rehabilitation Provision

         
     

    The Company elected to apply the IFRS 1 optional exemption for its decommissioning liabilities. The fair value of the environmental rehabilitation provision was calculated as at February 1, 2010 and then discounted to the date the obligation first arose using a historical discount rate and added to the cost of the related asset in mineral property, plant and equipment.

         
     

    The transition from Canadian GAAP to IFRS resulted in an environmental rehabilitation provision of $13,699,000 as at February 1, 2010, an increase of $10,353,000, and a provision of $15,719,000 as at January 31, 2011, an increase of $11,907,000. The change in accretion of the environmental rehabilitation provision resulted in a $534,000 increase to deficit as at the transition date, February 1, 2010. Accretion for the provision under IFRS was $480,000 for the year ended January 31, 2011, an increase of $95,000. The transition from Canadian GAAP to IFRS resulted in an asset as part of mineral property, plant and equipment associated with environmental rehabilitation of $11,600,000 as at February 1, 2010, an increase of $9,819,000, and an asset of $13,143,000 as at January 31, 2011, an increase of $11,278,000. As the associated assets are not in use, amortization of these assets has not been recorded to January 31, 2012.

         
     

    The most significant factor in the measurement difference of the environmental rehabilitation provision under IFRS and asset retirement obligation under Canadian GAAP was the applied discount rate. Under IFRS, a liability specific risk-free rate was used to discount future cash flows, whereas Canadian GAAP required a credit-adjusted risk-free rate. IFRS also requires changes in the liability to be recorded each period based on changes in discount rates, in addition to changes in estimated timing or amount of future cash flows.

         
      iii)

    Assets Held for Sale

         
     

    As a result of the transition to IFRS, non-current assets held for sale have been reclassified to current assets from their classification as non-current assets under Canadian GAAP.

    F-41



    PolyMet Mining Corp.
    (a development stage company)
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    For the years ended January 31, 2012 and 2011
    Tabular amounts in thousands of U.S. Dollars except for price per share, shares and options
     

    19.

    Subsequent Event

    On March 9, 2012 PolyMet acquired control of land that it plans to restore to wetlands through an agreement with AG for Waterfowl, LLP ("AG"). PolyMet paid AG $2.0 million cash and issued 2,788,902 of its common shares and a warrant to purchase 1,083,333 of its common shares at US$1.50 per share at any time until December 31, 2015 as consideration for purchase of a $5.9 million face value five year zero interest rate mortgage over land currently in agricultural use that AG will restore to wetlands in order to create wetland credits. The mortgage will be partially released as part of the lands are fully restored to approved wetland status, at which time PolyMet will receive formal wetland credits. Any lands that PolyMet has not requested be restored to wetland will revert to AG and the remaining mortgage, if any, will be released on February 28, 2017. PolyMet is committed to pay AG an additional $680,000 over seven years as compensation for the work AG is continuing to undertake.

    F-52


    ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

    Exhibit   Footnote
    No. Description Ref.
         
    1.1 Certificate of Incorporation. (2)
         
    1.2

    Certificate of Change of Name.

    (2)
         
    1.3

    Articles of Incorporation of PolyMet Mining Corp.

    (2)
         
    4.1

    Shareholder Rights Plan Agreement.

    (2)
         
    4.2

    Contract for Deed between us and Cleveland Cliffs, Ohio, dated November 15, 2005.

    (2)
         
    4.3

    Contract for Deed between us and Cleveland Cliffs, Ohio, dated December 20, 2006

    (1)
         
    4.4

    Purchase Agreement between us and Glencore, dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
         
    4.5

    Floating Rate Secured Debenture between us and Glencore, dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
         
    4.6

    Guarantee between PolyMet Mining Corp. and Glencore, dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
         
    4.7

    Security Agreement between PolyMet Mining Corp. and Glencore, dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
         
    4.8

    Security Agreement between Poly Met Mining, Inc. and Glencore, dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
         
    4.9

    Pledge Agreement between us and Glencore, dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
         
    4.10

    Exchange Warrant of PolyMet Mining Corp., dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
     

     

     
    4.11

    Purchase Warrant of PolyMet Mining Corp., dated October 31, 2008

    (8)
     

     

     
    4.12

    Amendment Letter number 11 to Purchase Agreement between us and Glencore

    (9)
     

     

     
    4.13

    Amendment and Waiver between the Company, the Issuer and the Purchaser dated November 12, 2010

    (10)
     

     

     
    4.14

    Form of Warrant dated November 12, 2010

    (10)
     

     

     
    4.15

    Subscription Agreement dated November 12, 2010

    (10)
     

     

     
    4.16

    Registration Rights Agreement dated November 12, 2010

    (10)
     

     

     
    4.17

    Subscription Agreement dated November 30, 2011

    (11)
     

     

     
    4.18

    2011 Warrant

    (11)
     

     

     
    4.19

    Amendment and Waiver dated November 30, 2011

    (11)
     

     

     
    4.20

    Amended and Restated Exchange Warrant

    (11)
     

     

     
    4.21

    Registration Rights Agreement and Amendment to Existing Registration Rights Agreement

    (11)

    - 65 -



    6.1 2007 PolyMet Omnibus Share Compensation Plan (7)
         
    8.1 List of Subsidiaries. (2)
         
    11.1 Code of Ethics. (3)
         
    11.2 Statement of Corporate Governance Practices, including Audit Mandate and Charter. (4)
         
    12.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 17 C.F.R. 240.13a-14(a). *
         
    12.2 Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 17 C.F.R. 240.13a-14(a). *
         
    13.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 17 C.F.R. 240.13a-14(b) and 18 U.S.C. 1350. *
         
    14.1 Amended and Restated Shareholder Rights Plan (7)
         
    15.1 Technical Report on NorthMet Project by P. Downey and Associates, dated July 2004 (5)
         
    15.2 Subscription Agreement dated as of July 19, 2004, between us and certain investor(s). (2)
         
    15.3 Subscription Agreement dated as of February 11, 2005, between us and certain investor(s). (2)
         
    15.4 Subscription Agreement closing on August 29, 2005, between us and certain investor(s). (2)
         
    15.5 Subscription Agreement dated as of September 21, 2005, between us and certain investor(s). (2)
         
    15.6 Form of Canadian Subscription Agreement between us and certain investor (s). (1)
         
    15.7 Form of U.S. Subscription Agreement between us and certain investor(s). (1)
         
    15.8 Lease Agreement between us and U.S. Steel Corporation, dated January 4, 1989. (2)
         
    15.9 Notice of Assignment of the Lease Agreement from U.S. Steel Corporation to RGGS Land and Minerals, Ltd. L.P. (2)
         
    15.10 Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter (7)
         
    15.11 Technical Report on NorthMet Project by P.J. Hunter C. Eng. CP dated October 2006 (6)
         
    15.12 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm *
         
    16.1 Audit Committee Charter (7)
         
    17.1 Executive employment agreement with Mr. William Murray dated July 1, 2007 and amended January 25, 2008 (7)
         
    17.2 Executive employment agreement with Mr. Douglas Newby dated July 1, 2007 (7)
         
    17.3 Executive employment agreement with Mr. Joseph Scipioni dated July 1, 2007 (7)
         
    17.4 Employment agreement with Mr. Niall Moore dated May 6, 2007 and amended January 25, 2008 (7)

    - 66 -



    Footnote  
    Ref. Description
       
    *

    Filed herewith.

       
    (1)

    Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F/A for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2007, filed on May 31 2007.

       
    (2)

    Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F/A for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2006, filed on July 31 2006.

       
    (3)

    Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F/A for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2004, filed on July 7, 2005.

       
    (4)

    Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2005, filed on July 25, 2005.

       
    (5)

    Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2004, filed on June 30, 2004.

       
    (6)

    Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 6-K, filed on November 13, 2006.

       
    (7)

    Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form-20-F/A for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2008, filed on August 27, 2008.

       
    (8)

    Incorporated by reference to our Form 13-D relating to our Purchase Agreement filed on November 10, 2008.

       
    (9)

    Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 6-K filed on November 23, 2009.

       
    (10)

    Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 6-K filed on November 18, 2010.

       
    (11)

    Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 6-K filed on December 7, 2011

    - 67 -


    SIGNATURES

    The Registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.

    Dated: April 30, 2012

    POLYMET MINING CORP.

    /s/ Joseph Scipioni                                    
    Name:   Joseph Scipioni
    Title:     Chief Executive Officer

    - 68 -