Overview
- The plan sets goals for at least 10% of demand to come from UK production and 20% from recycling by 2035, with no more than 60% of any critical mineral sourced from a single country.
- Up to £50m in new funding will support projects, with emphasis on lithium and tungsten operations in Cornwall and resources in Devon, County Durham and Teesside.
- The strategy targets at least 50,000 tonnes of domestically produced lithium by 2035 as UK lithium demand is projected to rise about 1,100% and copper demand to nearly double.
- Officials cite China’s control of roughly 70% of rare‑earth mining and about 90% of refining as a key vulnerability for UK industry and national security.
- Government backing includes prior investments exceeding £165m, potential support via the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance, exploration of stockpiles including through NATO, and a minerals cooperation pact with Saudi Arabia.