Make UK signs new partnership with Canadian manufacturers to boost trade and technology collaboration

Make UK has signed a major trade and partnership agreement with Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME), strengthening industrial ties between the two countries and paving the way for deeper cooperation in areas such as rare earth metals, artificial intelligence, nuclear technology and defence.

The deal follows a joint statement issued by the Prime Ministers of the UK and Canada in June and formalizes a shared ambition to expand bilateral trade, investment and technology exchange. Canada is currently the UK’s 16th trading partner and 13th export destination for British goods, with annual trade between the two countries worth £6.5 billion.

The agreement was signed in Ottawa by Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, and Dennis Darby, CEO of CME, in the presence of British High Commissioner Rob Tinline and Canadian Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu.

Under the partnership, the two organizations will work to increase cooperation between British and Canadian manufacturing companies, exchange information on science, technology and innovation while enhancing trade missions, investment opportunities and commercial exchanges. Particular emphasis will be placed on defense and security, reflecting the strong industrial capabilities the two countries share in advanced defense manufacturing.

Stephen Gibson said that the agreement is based on a long history of cooperation between the two countries.

“This is a welcome agreement that reflects the long-standing, historic relationship 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 enhance 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.”

Canada and the United Kingdom now have an opportunity to build a globally competitive industry alliance, said Denis Darby, CEO of CME.

“We see real opportunities to deepen cooperation in advanced manufacturing, clean technology and defense procurement,” he said. “Canadian manufacturers stand ready to lead alongside our UK partners, and we urge both governments to seize this moment to deliver bold, forward-looking growth.”

The agreement is expected to support companies operating in strategic industries, encourage innovation and drive exports in both markets.