New Zealand unveils draft critical minerals list

The New Zealand government has released a draft list of critical minerals, which are deemed essential to the country’s economic resilience and international mineral supply chains.

Resources Minister Shane Jones announced the draft list on Sunday, stating that it identifies 35 minerals crucial to economic functions and facing a high risk of supply disruption both domestically and internationally.

“Minerals underpin just about every aspect of our modern world – from the roads we drive on and the energy that keeps the lights on – to our schools, hospitals and homes,” Jones stated.

Ensuring access to essential minerals is crucial for the country’s economy. If the supply of key minerals like aggregates for infrastructure or phosphate for agriculture is disrupted, it could have severe economic consequences, Jones added.

The list includes minerals vital for various sectors and explores opportunities for New Zealand to contribute to global supply. It also assesses risks to supply chains and the need to enhance resilience.

Once finalised, the Critical Minerals List will support New Zealand’s efforts in securing critical minerals and developing strategies to improve access to these resources. This may involve specific actions to enhance mineral supply.

Attribution: The official website of the New Zealand Government report

Subediting: M. S. Salama