Chinese steelmaker Jingye Group, the former owner of British Steel, demands compensation from the UK government after the company is fully nationalised, according to multiple reports. Jingye says the UK’s move follows earlier government intervention: the UK took operational control in 2025 after Jingye signalled it was considering closing the blast furnaces at the Scunthorpe plant in northern England, described by outlets as the UK’s last primary site producing “virgin steel” from raw materials. Jingye argues the nationalisation damages investor confidence, causes losses and violates international investment standards, using language such as “trampling on international investment rules.” It also says the process raises risks related to security and seeks a “fair resolution.”
The company says it has initiated negotiation procedures under relevant bilateral investment agreements and is reserving rights including access to international arbitration. BBC and other outlets report Jingye says it will pursue legal action “to the very end,” while other coverage highlights its demand for compensation for investment losses. The UK’s rationale, as described in reporting, is to prevent closure of the last primary steelmaking facility.
