Changing Geometries: The Rise of a Middle-Power Tech Triangle

As great-power rivalry reshapes global supply chains, technology governance, and the clean energy transition, middle powers are seeking new ways to reduce vulnerability. The Australia–Canada–India Technology and Innovation (ACITI) Partnership, announced at the 2025 G20 summit, represents an emerging model of strategic minilateralism focused on critical minerals, green innovation, and artificial intelligence. This issue brief argues that ACITI’s importance lies in its function as a risk-diversification platform, allowing participating states to expand cooperation and resilience while maintaining ties with major powers. However, the partnership’s broad agenda risks diluting its impact unless members prioritize concrete initiatives and align them with existing regional frameworks. ACITI therefore serves as a test case for whether flexible middle-power coalitions can deliver practical outcomes in an increasingly fragmented global order.