Australian Government launches $2 billion Green aluminium production credit
The Australian Federal Government has announced a $2 billion Green Aluminium Production Credit to boost the aluminium industry and support renewable energy initiatives.
This investment, outlined by Prime Minister Albanese, aims to create jobs and drive economic growth in regions including Gladstone, by helping aluminium smelters transition to renewable energy by 2036.
The program offers incentives for clean energy aluminium production, aligning with the "Future Made in Australia" strategy to enhance domestic manufacturing and reduce emissions, positioning Australia as a leader in sustainable metals.
Australia's grid battery adoption soars
The adoption of grid batteries in Australia has grown 28% year-over-year over the last 6 years, highlighting the importance of battery storage in supporting renewable energy sources.
Projections of a BESS market worth USD 120-$150 billion by 2030 highlight an emerging 'golden age' for battery technology.
This highlights the global shift towards renewable energy and the competitive landscape shaped by technological advancements and policy changes.
Projections of a BESS market worth USD 120-$150 billion by 2030 highlight an emerging 'golden age' for battery technology.
This highlights the global shift towards renewable energy and the competitive landscape shaped by technological advancements and policy changes.
Rare earth elements market being reshaped
The rare earth elements market supply chain is being reshaped by rising global demand and geopolitical tensions. Key elements such as dysprosium (essential for clean energy technologies), face price spikes and supply risk, with projections of a 450% price increase by 2034.
Australia, being a significant producer of rare earth elements, plays a key role in diversifying supply chains and supporting global markets.
Smart farming market on the rise
The global smart farming market is projected to grow significantly, driven by advanced technologies and sustainable practices.
Key areas of focus include precision agriculture and hardware solutions, which are essential for optimising farming operations.
North America is expected to lead this market due to its technological infrastructure and government support.
This growth presents opportunities for investment and innovation in agriculture, particularly relevant for regions like Queensland.
Innovative approaches emerge for climate-resilient crops
The importance of developing climate-resilient crops in addressing the challenges posed by climate change on agriculture is leading to various innovative approaches, including biotechnology and traditional breeding methods that enhance traits such as drought and pest resistance.
The integration of sustainable practices is essential for maintaining soil health and ensuring long-term food security. Collaborative efforts among scientists, farmers, and policymakers are crucial to drive advancements in this field.
African government looks to stabilise
Following the 2024 national elections, South Africa has entered a unity government aimed at stabilising governance amid significant political shifts.
While there is cautious optimism regarding business confidence, the government's durability is uncertain due to ideological differences and public dissatisfaction. High crime rates and declining trust in governmental institutions pose further challenges, highlighting the need for effective governance and economic growth.
Advances expected in Quantum hardware
Significant advances are expected in Quantum hardware, software and algorithms in 2025.
Late last year, Google announced Willow, a state-of-the-art Quantum chip delivering exponential error reductions.
Alongside Critical Minerals discovery and value-chains, TIQ’s insights scanning function is showing an increased focus on topics including semi-conductor chips, production, technology and supply chain, within the geo-political context of US-China relationship.
Featured insights
Trumps controversial executive Orders
New US President, Donald J. Trump, has stated his aim to drive government efficiency and competency as part of an ‘America First’ focus.Announcements from the Trump administration relating to trade and international relations so far include:
- Plans to establish an External Revenue Service to collect tariffs and taxes from other countries (noting that tariffs are paid by importers – not exporters).
- Shifting away from clean energy, including through an executive order to halt $300bn in green energy funding.
- Assessing U.S’ contributions and positions on NATO, the World Health Organisation (WHO) (withdrew) and the EU Tax and impose a 100% tariffs on goods from BRICS+ nations (see next section).
First Southeast Asian nation to join BRICS+
- Under the leadership of the new President Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia has become the first Southeast Asian nation to join BRICS+ (joining Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, UAE, Iran)
- The Indonesian foreign ministry stated that their membership aims to ‘bridge the interests of developing countries’ in the Indo-Pacific Region.
- This move further strengthens Indonesia’s multi-alignment foreign policy to maintain geopolitical independence and promote diversification.
Globally, the World Trade Organiastion says that trade flows are re-orientating towards geopolitical lines, with trade between geopolitically similar blocs growing 4% more slowly than trade within these blocs.
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