EDC and UKEF sign agreement to boost Canada-UK cooperation in key sectors

Export Development Canada (EDC) and UK Export Finance (UKEF), the export credit agencies of Canada and the United Kingdom, respectively, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation in critical sectors vital to economic resilience and national security. 

The agreement signed at the G7 meeting of Export Credit Agencies in Washington, D.C., aims to create a reliable and competitive supply chain for critical minerals and enhance collaboration in defence, clean energy, digital technologies, AI, and advanced manufacturing.

Alison Nankivell, President and CEO, EDC, said, “From defence readiness to energy security, critical minerals are foundational to today’s strategic supply chains. By enhancing our cooperation with UK Export Finance, EDC commits to exploring ways to mobilise capital that can help advance responsible critical minerals projects, support good jobs, build stronger infrastructure and capabilities in Canada and the U.K. as we work to deliver on shared G7 priorities.”

Tim Reid, CEO, UK Export Finance, said, “This agreement with EDC marks an important step forward in our shared commitment to building more resilient and diversified critical minerals supply chains. Canada is a vital partner for the UK, and by working together we can do more to support businesses on both sides of the Atlantic to access the financing, expertise and market opportunities they need. 

“Whether in critical minerals, clean energy, defence or digital technologies, this partnership reflects our shared ambition to strengthen economic security and keep pace with the opportunities and challenges shaping global trade,” he added.

Aligns with G7 priorities

This partnership strengthens the G7’s goals to diversify, increase transparency, and improve the resilience and sustainability of critical minerals supply chains.

Under the MOU, EDC and UKEF will establish a cooperative framework to promote Canadian and UK interests in critical minerals projects and opportunities. 

Both agencies commit to exploring collaborative initiatives within Canada, the UK, and internationally that involve goods and services from both countries. 

The agreement facilitates the exchange of expertise and best practices related to export credit, structured finance, and trade finance, while aiming to mobilise investment into Canadian projects and capital into the critical minerals sector.

Leadership perspectives

The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, said,
“This agreement between EDC and UKEF is exactly the kind of partnership Canada is pursuing. It deepens our ties with one of our most trusted allies, opens doors for Canadian businesses in critical minerals, defence, and beyond, and builds the resilient supply chains our two countries depend on. This is Team Canada in action.”

The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, added,
“Canada has what the world wants, and we are taking decisive action to become a global mining superpower. This agreement strengthens Canada–UK cooperation at a time when trusted supply chains matter more than ever. By aligning our export credit agencies and advancing the Critical Minerals Production Alliance, we are mobilising capital, accelerating projects, and reinforcing economic competitiveness and security among allies.”

UK Trade Minister Chris Bryant said, “Through critical minerals, clean energy and defence and backed by our Modern Industrial Strategy, we are building the kind of resilient, diversified supply chains that will underpin our economic security for decades to come. This partnership sends a clear signal that the UK and Canada are committed to working together to secure those foundations and to growing trade that benefits both our nations.”

Expanding cooperation across sectors and countries

EDC and UKEF would partner in crucial sectors to improve supply chains, drive innovation, boost productivity, and support the shift to a low-carbon economy.

The sectors include mining (both critical minerals and metals), nuclear energy, advanced manufacturing, defence, and digital technologies.

Supported by tariff-free access under the Canada-U.K. Trade Continuity Agreement, the two nations maintain a stable business environment conducive to long-term commercial engagement.

For over a decade, EDC has supported Canadian companies operating in the UK through its London representation, providing capital access, risk mitigation, and market intelligence. In 2026, EDC is expanding its European footprint with new offices planned in Paris, Warsaw, and Stockholm to better assist exporters and investors pursuing opportunities across the UK and continental Europe.

This MOU between EDC and UKEF is a significant advancement in Canada-UK cooperation.