Finance took center stage in the raw materials sector this week. The Netherlands and South Korea announced state-backed funds for critical minerals and key industries, while China released export data for the year’s first two months—the details in our roundup.
Netherlands Plans Critical Raw Material Fund
Invest International, a Dutch government-backed organization focused on facilitating international investments, has announced plans to launch a public-private investment fund targeting critical raw materials. The fund aims to enhance Dutch companies’ access to existing supply chains while boosting alternative sourcing through increased recycling efforts and improved resource efficiency.
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South Korea to Launch $34.4 Billion Fund to Support Key Industries
South Korea’s government announced on Wednesday plans to establish a $34.4 billion (50 trillion won) “Advanced Strategic Industries Fund” aimed at bolstering its high-tech sectors, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, robotics, and batteries. With the fund, the government in Seoul seeks to safeguard the country’s future global competitiveness.
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Critical Mineral Exploration: Canada Extends Tax Credits
Canada plans to extend tax credits for critical mineral exploration activities for two more years, according to a government statement. Originally set to expire at the end of March, the program helps Canadian companies, particularly juniors, raise capital more effectively for cost-intensive exploration activities.
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Is the EU’s Rethinking the Combustion Engine Ban?
More electric mobility, revised CO₂ fleet targets, autonomous driving, and stronger battery supply chains—the European Commission aims to boost the competitiveness of the domestic automotive industry with a new action plan. Funding will come from existing EU support programs, while private investments are also set to be mobilized. Additionally, by embracing technology neutrality, the Commission is addressing a key industry demand. As part of this shift, the planned de facto ban on new combustion engine vehicle sales from 2035 could be reconsidered, with a review scheduled for later this year.
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