Written submission from AMTE Power (BEV0053)

Inquiry: Batteries for electric vehicle manufacturing – AMTE Power follow up written evidence

What are the changes that we need to see? Do you have any thoughts on the specific changes we would like to see in the renegotiation of the TCA?

• Any renegotiation of the TCA should, where possible, seek to entrench future regulatory alignment for the battery sector.  Battery manufacturing is a highly regulated sector and rules are necessary, but alignment on recycling and disposal alongside manufacturing could facilitate greater trade and a level playing field throughout Europe for all businesses in the industry.  
• In turn, this increased alignment would make it feasible to streamline the customs process, to support battery businesses, which often rely on ‘just-in-time’ manufacturing and global supply chains.  A reduction in the administrative burden for organisations which adhere to the regulatory standards as detailed above would be a welcome benefit of any future renegotiation of the TCA. 

• Supply chains in the battery manufacturing industry are complex.  The use of finite raw materials in the cell-making process, found in specific locations throughout the world, make clarity around rules of origin a particularly important issue.  Clear guidance for businesses, and an instrument to engage where challenges present themselves will allow battery manufactures to avoid disruptions.
• Future free trade agreements should seek to ensure minimum access levels to raw materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel where feasible to support a UK battery making industry.  AMTE is working to procure its own production supply chain, but trade negotiations can act as a unique opportunity for government to underpin access to these vital materials.  This applies to both any future renegotiation of the TCA but is also a sentiment to keep in mind for other trade talks with mineral-rich nations.