Make UK has signed a major trade and partnership agreement with the Canadian Manufacturers & 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 defence.
The deal follows a joint statement by the prime ministers of the UK and Canada in June and formalises a shared ambition to expand bilateral trade, investment and technological exchange. 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 Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, and Dennis Darby, CEO of CME, in the presence of British High Commissioner Rob Tinline and Canada’s Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu.
Under the partnership, the two organisations will increase cooperation between UK and Canadian manufacturing companies, sharing information on science, technology and innovation while promoting trade missions, investment opportunities and commercial exchanges. Defence and security will be a particular focus, reflecting the strong industrial capabilities both nations share in advanced defence manufacturing.
Stephen Phipson said the agreement builds on a long history of collaboration between the two countries.
“This is a welcome agreement which reflects the longstanding and historic relations between the UK and Canada,” he said. “Make UK and CME have developed a strong relationship over many years, supporting manufacturers to invest, create jobs and strengthen supply chain connectivity. Today’s partnership will help boost ties between manufacturers in both countries and support the ambition of both governments to increase investment in critical technologies.”
CME CEO Dennis Darby said Canada and the UK now have an opportunity to build a globally competitive industrial alliance.
“We see real opportunities to deepen collaboration in advanced manufacturing, clean technology and defence procurement,” he said. “Canadian manufacturers are ready to lead alongside our UK partners, and we urge both governments to seize this moment for bold, forward-looking growth.”
The agreement is expected to support firms working in strategic industries, encourage innovation and drive exports in both markets.