A recent announcement from my Gov Dpt, if you are interested in learning more please reach out:
Strengthening UK's Access to Critical Minerals for Industrial Growth & Net Zero Transition
Today, the Chancellor announced a significant boost for UK industries with new export credit financing aimed at securing critical minerals, essential for long-term growth and innovation. Through UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government will offer credit guarantees to overseas projects, helping British industries like automotive, aerospace, and defense secure stable, diversified access to vital materials like lithium, graphite, and cobalt.
As global demand for these minerals rises, this initiative empowers UK manufacturers to forge resilient supply chains and build partnerships in resource-rich countries, including Australia. By supporting emerging and sustainable technologies-such as EVs, solar panels, and wind turbines-the UK strengthens its industrial base and drives progress toward net zero.
Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, underscored this move as essential to maintaining the UK's competitive edge in the race for critical resources.
Kirsty Benham, CEO of the Critical Minerals Association, welcomed the offering, emphasizing the UK's role as a strong partner in the international critical minerals market.
Sean Sargent, CEO of Green Lithium, noted this support as transformative for the UK's industrial future, including Green Lithium's Teesside refinery, set to become a key player in the battery chemicals supply chain.
As a founding member of the Minerals Security Partnership, the UK is committed to building resilient, responsible supply routes. Today's announcement marks a vital step in ensuring UK industries are prepared for a sustainable, globally connected future.
see link for announcement: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-approves-use-of-export-finance-to-secure-critical-minerals#:~:text=We%20welcome%20the%20new%20export,of%20these%20strategically%20important%20materials.
see link for more info on product: https://www.ukexportfinance.gov.uk/products-and-services/critical-minerals-supply-finance/
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James MacLeod-Nairn
Business Manager
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