Overview
- IPPR modelling links the vulnerability to heavy UK reliance on imported cathodes and anodes for gigafactories.
- The study estimates risks to about 90,000 jobs across EV assembly, battery production and supply chains, including 67,000 in vehicle manufacturing.
- China’s control of roughly 80% to 90% of global critical-mineral refining increases exposure across batteries and other clean-energy components.
- The think tank urges onshoring, diversified sourcing, joint ventures, stockpiles and “keepshoring” to strengthen resilience.
- Government officials say the UK seeks cooperation with China without compromising security, with upcoming visits and business surveys highlighting contested trade expectations.