Today, we're releasing an episode outside of our normal schedule on tariffs and those on metals in particular. What tariffs are in place on metals and critical minerals? What has been the response, particularly from China? What is the legal underpinning of those tariffs, and how does that create uncertainty? What are the administration’s goals? And what does it mean for contracts? What does it mean for M&A? And what does it mean for markets?
Speaking to our host Paul Chapman on this episode is Guy Winter, partner at Fasken, the global law firm, in their Global Mining Group. Guy is also on the advisory board of the Critical Minerals Association in the UK and on the UK's Department for Business and Trade Critical Minerals Expert Committee. He is also an author of fiction books - his latest two were The Billionaire Suicide Club and The Billionaire Suicide Club 2; Red Queen Rising.
Key Talent Takeaways
Legal Expertise Is Now Core to Metals Strategy
Tariffs and export restrictions have made legal talent essential in metals. Specialists in trade and contract law are now central to managing supply risk, structuring deals, and handling force majeure claims in an increasingly politicised market.
Critical Metals Talent Is in High Demand
As access to metals like copper, aluminium, and rare earths tightens, companies are seeking professionals with deep sector knowledge—from mining to processing and logistics—who can navigate disruption and secure supply.
Commercial Roles Need Geopolitical Acumen
Metals traders and strategists must now track geopolitics as closely as market data. Understanding trade policy, reciprocal tariffs, and regional alliances is crucial for pricing, procurement, and risk management.
Dealmakers Must Plan for Policy Shocks
M&A and contracting in metals now require clauses that account for tariff changes and export bans. Transactional talent must structure resilient deals and assess geopolitical exposure as part of due diligence.
Government and Industry Compete for the Same People
With governments launching critical minerals strategies, public and private sectors are chasing the same experts. Professionals who understand the global metals supply chain and trade dynamics are in short supply and high demand.
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