At the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum held in Ankara, Euromines President Jan Moström emphasised the critical role of raw materials in ensuring resilient supply chains for Europe’s defence and industrial sectors. The forum brought together leaders from various industries, including semiconductors and automotive, to discuss strategies for future-proofing supply chains amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Moström highlighted that secure access to critical raw materials is essential for maintaining Europe’s industrial competitiveness and technological leadership, particularly in the context of increasing strategic competition.
During the panel discussion titled “Resilient by Design: Future-proofing Allied Supply Chains,” Moström outlined four key policy priorities aimed at bolstering Europe’s industrial preparedness. Firstly, he advocated for a shift from “just-in-time” to “just-in-case” supply chains, which would better equip industries to handle crises. Secondly, he called for stable and predictable investment conditions, stressing that mining projects require long-term certainty to thrive. Thirdly, he urged the importance of building and maintaining supply chains during peacetime to ensure readiness in times of crisis. Lastly, he emphasised the need to reduce legislative fragmentation and administrative burdens to accelerate the development of strategic projects that Europe urgently needs.
The discussion underscored that a secure industrial base begins well before the manufacturing stage, rooted in a competitive and responsible mining sector. Moström’s insights reflect a growing recognition that coherent policies and long-term investment certainty are vital for strengthening Europe’s security and industrial base. As NATO and its allies work towards reinforcing industrial resilience, the role of raw materials in this equation cannot be overstated. The forum concluded with a call for strategic prioritisation of secure access to these materials, which are foundational to the continent’s defence capabilities.
