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Has the ring-fencing of Regional Infrastructure Funding for critical minerals projects been undertaken in light of reports of the United States looking for “shovel ready critical minerals projects in New Zealand”?

Answered Question 5715 (2026)
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Asked by

Steve Abel

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • Has the ring-fencing of Regional Infrastructure Funding for critical minerals projects been undertaken in light of reports of the United States looking for “shovel ready critical minerals projects in New Zealand”?

Answered by

Hon Shane Jones

List MP · NZ First · Minister for Regional Development

Answer

Critical minerals have become a key geostrategic lever, and the need to diversify supply chains is the subject of global discussion. New Zealand has critical mineral resources, creating an enduring economic opportunity for us as a country.