Make UK has signed a major trade and partnership agreement with Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME), strengthening industrial ties between the two nations and paving the way for deeper collaboration in areas such as rare earth minerals, artificial intelligence, nuclear technology and defense.
The agreement follows a joint statement by the prime ministers of the United Kingdom and Canada in June and formalizes the shared goal of expanding bilateral trade, investment and technology exchanges. Canada is currently the UK’s 16th largest trading partner and the 13th largest export destination for British goods, with annual trade between the countries worth £6.5 billion.
The agreement was signed in Ottawa by Make UK CEO Stephen Phipson and CME CEO Dennis Darby, in the presence of British High Commissioner Rob Tinline and Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu.
As part of the partnership, the two organizations will increase collaboration between British and Canadian manufacturing companies, sharing information on science, technology and innovation, while promoting trade missions, investment opportunities and commercial exchanges. A particular focus will be on defense and security, reflecting the strong industrial capabilities both nations share in producing advanced defense equipment.
Stephen Phipson said the agreement builds on a long history of cooperation between the two countries.
“This is a welcome agreement that reflects the long-standing and historic relationship between the UK and Canada,” he said. “Make UK and CME have built a strong relationship over many years, supporting manufacturers to invest, create jobs and strengthen supply chain connectivity. Today’s partnership will help strengthen relationships between manufacturers in both countries and support both governments’ ambition to increase investment in critical technologies.”
CME CEO Dennis Darby said Canada and the UK now have the opportunity to build a globally competitive industrial alliance.
“We see real opportunities to deepen cooperation in advanced manufacturing, clean technology and defense procurement,” he said. “Canadian manufacturers are ready to lead alongside our British partners, and we urge both governments to seize this moment for bold, forward-looking growth.”
The agreement is intended to support companies operating in strategic industries, promote innovation and drive exports in both markets.
