MINEX Forum

Tag: Critical raw materials

  • Europe Ramps Up Strategic Moves to Secure Critical Raw Materials for Defense

    Europe Ramps Up Strategic Moves to Secure Critical Raw Materials for Defense

    As Europe faces growing geopolitical instability and mounting supply chain risks, NATO and the European Union have identified a list of critical raw materials (CRMs) vital to the continent’s defense and technological resilience. These materials are essential across all major defense sectors — land, naval, aerospace, and guided weapons — and are heavily used in sensors, communications, and weapons systems.

    According to a recent analysis by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), modern military equipment such as main battle tanks and warships depend on a range of high-risk materials, including copper, germanium, mercury, tantalum, and aluminium. While these resources are integral to advanced capabilities like infrared sights and night-vision systems, Europe remains alarmingly reliant on imports, particularly from China — the world’s top producer of many of these substances.

    The European Union has responded by accelerating domestic strategies aimed at reducing foreign dependence. The Critical Raw Materials Act, passed in 2024, focuses on boosting local extraction, refining, and recycling of key materials. Meanwhile, countries like France, Spain, and Germany are introducing tailored national initiatives. France has authorized industrial stockpiles, Spain is reinforcing supply chain frameworks, and Germany has launched a national raw-materials fund for the defense sector.

    Other European nations, including Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom, are also preparing policies to secure access to these strategic assets, though specific defense-oriented documents are still forthcoming. Collectively, these efforts mark a shift toward greater autonomy and resilience in Europe’s defense supply chains.

  • Estonia Taps AFRY for Phosphate Mining Assessment to Boost Critical Raw Material Supply

    Estonia Taps AFRY for Phosphate Mining Assessment to Boost Critical Raw Material Supply

    The Geological Survey of Estonia has commissioned Swedish-Finnish engineering firm AFRY to conduct a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) and pre-feasibility study (PFS) for a major phosphate ore project in Toolse, Estonia.

    Estonia hosts some of Europe’s largest phosphorite reserves, which are rich in phosphorus—an essential component in fertiliser production. These deposits also contain rare earth elements critical for electronics, renewable energy, and battery technologies. The project aims to strengthen Estonia’s role in supplying key raw materials while reducing dependency on imports.

    AFRY’s assessment will cover economic viability, environmental impacts, and the socio-economic outcomes of phosphate extraction, with a focus on phosphoric acid production. Both surface and underground mining methods will be evaluated, along with the feasibility of a beneficiation plant and full production chain.

    According to Sirli Sipp Kulli, Director of the Geological Survey of Estonia, the project’s success depends on strict sustainability standards and responsible resource use. “Our focus is on long-term benefits to local communities, including job creation and regional development,” she said.

    AFRY’s Janne Tikka added that their holistic approach integrates process technologies with environmental performance to ensure responsible development. The project could significantly support Estonia’s agricultural sector, attract investment, and reinforce its position in the global critical materials supply chain.

  • European Commission Enhances Raw Materials Knowledge Platform

    European Commission Enhances Raw Materials Knowledge Platform

    The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) has significantly upgraded the Raw Materials Information System (RMIS), reinforcing its commitment to providing comprehensive data on non-fuel, non-agriculture primary raw materials and secondary raw materials. ​RMIS – Raw Materials Information System+8RMIS – Raw Materials Information System+8RMIS – Raw Materials Information System+8

    RMIS serves as the Commission’s primary knowledge platform, offering in-depth profiles of various raw materials, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel. These profiles deliver critical insights into material properties, applications, supply chains, and sustainability considerations, supporting informed decision-making across industries and policy sectors. ​RMIS – Raw Materials Information System

    In a recent development, the JRC published a report focusing on enhancing the recycling and recovery of critical and strategic raw materials in vehicles. This report addresses the growing demand for raw materials driven by the expansion of electric vehicle production and renewable energy technologies, emphasizing the need for responsible sourcing and recycling practices to mitigate environmental and social impacts. ​OUP Academic+7RMIS – Raw Materials Information System+7RMIS – Raw Materials Information System+7RMIS – Raw Materials Information System

    The RMIS platform also features analyses of value chains and demand forecasts for critical raw materials in strategic sectors such as renewables, e-mobility, energy, ICT, and aerospace & defense. These analyses assist stakeholders in understanding material flows and anticipating future supply and demand dynamics. ​RMIS – Raw Materials Information System

    Furthermore, RMIS supports the European Union’s objectives for strategic autonomy by promoting circularity in critical raw materials. The platform provides data and indicators on material flows, recycling rates, and supply chain dependencies, aiding in the development of policies and strategies to reduce reliance on non-EU sources. ​JRC Publications+9OUP Academic+9RMIS – Raw Materials Information System+9

  • European Commission Throws the Door Wide Open to Mining

    European Commission Throws the Door Wide Open to Mining

    The European Commission has identified 47 strategic projects to help the EU become self-sufficient in critical raw materials. More than half of these involve mining plans, several of which are controversial.

    In its effort to reduce Europe’s reliance on external suppliers—particularly countries like China—the European Commission wants at least 10 percent of critical raw materials used within the EU to be sourced domestically by 2030. Additionally, it aims for 40 percent of these materials to be processed inside Europe, while no more than 15 percent should come from any single non-EU country. To support this goal, the Commission has selected 47 “strategic” projects that will benefit from funding and expedited permits. Over half focus on extracting raw materials from the ground, ranging from Norway to Sweden, Germany, and Spain.

    “It’s crucial for Europe’s independence to mine more of its own lithium, nickel, and other metals,” a European Commission Vice President explains. “We can’t keep relying on third parties for such vital resources.” Some of the proposed mines have already stirred controversy—for example, certain lithium mining projects—due to concerns over environmental impact, water usage, and potential harm to local communities. Nevertheless, the Commission views these initiatives as essential for the EU’s green transition and for manufacturing batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines.

    Two Billion Euros for Drilling and Digging

    Under the EU’s plan, two billion euros from the Recovery and Resilience Facility will be allocated to mining initiatives. This includes both developing new mines and expanding or modernizing existing sites. One example is the proposed development of Europe’s largest lithium deposit in the Czech Republic, along with expansions of nickel and cobalt mines in Finland. The Commission also wants to promote the recycling of batteries, electronics, and other products so that precious metals can be recovered and reused. Additionally, the plan involves building strategic stockpiles of critical raw materials, similar to how the EU manages its gas reserves.

    Despite these efforts, experts caution that the EU’s aspirations for raw materials may be overly ambitious. “We’re not going to be completely self-sufficient,” says one raw materials analyst. “Demand for these metals is skyrocketing because of the energy transition and digitalization, so we won’t be able to extract enough on our own.” According to the analyst, the best strategy is to diversify supply chains and forge stable partnerships with countries such as Australia, Canada, and Chile—though this will require making Europe a more appealing trade partner, especially since China has been heavily investing in those regions.

    The Commission acknowledges that the new raw materials plan is not a cure-all. “Still,” says a spokesperson, “it’s a critical step toward reducing our dependence on a single supplier.”

  • EU Deepens Ties with Central Asia

    EU Deepens Ties with Central Asia

    Brussels, 22 March, 2025 – The European Union (EU) is making a significant push into Central Asia, aiming to strengthen its partnership with the five strategically important countries through the Global Gateway strategy. European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela concluded a week-long tour of the region, meeting with officials and business leaders in Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

    The visit, which took place ahead of the first EU-Central Asia Summit on 3-4 April 2025, focused on boosting investment in key sectors like digital connectivity, transport infrastructure, critical raw materials, and renewable energy.

    Concrete Commitments:

    Commissioner Síkela announced several key agreements during his trip, including:

    • €422 million in investment: A significant portion of this funding will be channeled through the European Investment Bank (EIB) and other EU financial institutions, including grants and loans, for projects across various sectors.
    • Transport Corridor Development: The EU reiterated its commitment to the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, a globally important trade route connecting Central Asia to Europe. A €200 million framework loan agreement was signed between the EIB and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan to support sustainable transport and renewable energy development.
    • Support for Critical Raw Materials: Collaboration in critical raw materials (CRM) will receive a €3 million boost, focusing on sustainable and responsible supply chains, job creation, and economic resilience.
    • Energy Security & Climate Action: The EU announced grants totaling €51.6 million to modernize Tajikistan’s electricity grid, promote energy efficiency, and support water-efficient technologies and innovative solutions in Kyrgyzstan.
    • Digital Connectivity Expansion: Two key agreements worth an undisclosed amount were signed to improve digital infrastructure and expand high-speed internet access to underserved populations.

    Stronger Partnership:

    Commissioner Síkela emphasized the growing partnership between the EU and Central Asia, stating, “Central Asia and the European Union are strong partners. We can deliver long-term benefits for people and businesses on both sides.” He highlighted the need to address challenges like climate change, energy security, and digital divide, while unlocking new economic opportunities through the Global Gateway initiative.

    The visit underscores the EU’s commitment to its Global Gateway strategy, aiming to bridge the global investment gap and build sustainable and resilient connections with partner countries. The upcoming EU-Central Asia Summit further solidifies this commitment and paves the way for future collaborations.

  • European Commission Launches Critical Raw Materials Facility to Strengthen Supply Chains and Reduce Dependencies

    European Commission Launches Critical Raw Materials Facility to Strengthen Supply Chains and Reduce Dependencies

    The European Commission has awarded EIT RawMaterials and InnoEnergy a groundbreaking new project, the Critical Raw Materials (CRM) Facility, aimed at bolstering Europe’s supply chains, reducing dependencies, and mitigating disruption risks. Coordinated by EIT RawMaterials, the initiative seeks to build a resilient and sustainable supply of critical raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese by strengthening global partnerships and advancing international projects to diversify Europe’s raw materials sources.

    Bernd Schäfer, CEO and Managing Director of EIT RawMaterials, emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “Securing a stable supply of critical raw materials is not just vital for Europe’s industrial competitiveness—it is essential for European security. As we race toward 2030, we must turn ambition into action.” He highlighted that resilient supply chains require strong global partnerships and expressed pride in leading the initiative, leveraging EIT RawMaterials’ expertise in mining, recycling, and advanced materials.

    A dedicated team from EIT RawMaterials and InnoEnergy will identify and assess CRM projects in regions including Africa, Latin America, Central and Southeast Asia, Southeastern Europe, and Greenland. These projects will be evaluated for their strategic value to Europe and opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships between host communities and European industries.

    Baptiste Buet, Director of the EU Business Unit at InnoEnergy, noted, “A value chain is only as strong as its weakest link. For batteries, securing sustainable raw materials is critical to the success and stability of a rapidly developing European industry.” He added that while domestic mining, refining, and recycling are essential, the CRM Facility underscores Europe’s commitment to securing global resources for battery cell manufacturers.

    The CRM Facility will also focus on developing mid-to-downstream mineral value chains in partner countries and delivering specialized training programs to equip professionals with expertise in CRM management, operations, and sustainable practices.

  • Kazakhstan to Supply EU with Critical Raw Materials Under New Agreements

    Kazakhstan to Supply EU with Critical Raw Materials Under New Agreements

    Kazakhstan has signed a landmark agreement to supply the European Union (EU) with critical raw materials, essential for modern industries and technologies. The deal was finalized during a visit by European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen to Kazakhstan, as reported by the EU Representation in the country.

    The agreement includes a €3 million contract aimed at fostering cooperation between the EU and Central Asia in the field of critical raw materials. Funding will be provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), with a focus on joint projects to establish reliable supply chains for these resources. Critical raw materials, such as rare earth metals, copper, aluminum, uranium, phosphorus, and potassium, are vital for sectors like technology, energy, defense, and transportation.

    Urpilainen emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “Europe needs reliable access to critical raw materials to modernize its economy. We are committed to mutually beneficial cooperation with Kazakhstan in their extraction and development. This partnership supports all Central Asian countries, boosts Kazakhstan’s economy, strengthens its industrial potential, and creates new opportunities for businesses, innovation, and high-quality jobs.”

    In addition to the raw materials agreement, the EU and Kazakhstan signed a €200 million loan deal between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Kazakhstan Development Bank. The EU will provide an €18 million guarantee for the loan, which Kazakhstan plans to allocate toward developing transport infrastructure and renewable energy sources.

    During the visit, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also met with Urpilainen at the Akorda Presidential Palace, underscoring the growing partnership between Kazakhstan and the EU.

  • BGV Group Management Forges International Partnerships in Critical Raw Materials Sector

    BGV Group Management Forges International Partnerships in Critical Raw Materials Sector

    In early 2025, BGV Group Management, led by Gennadii Butkevych, signed cooperation agreements with three international partners during Ukrainian Week 2025 in Washington, USA. These agreements lay the groundwork for future collaboration in the critical raw materials (CRM)sector, with a focus on advancing joint initiatives. The parties have committed to further refining the terms of cooperation and accelerating the implementation of these projects.

    For nearly a decade, BGV Group Management has been a key player in the extraction and processing of graphite and beryllium. Since 2015, the company has invested approximately $100 million in the mining sector, primarily targeting greenfield projects within the CRM industry.

    Gennadii Butkevych, founder and investor of BGV Group Management, emphasized the significance of these agreements, stating, “The signing of these documents marks a pivotal step in establishing international partnerships and expanding our global presence. With global attention on the CRM industry, our company has been building expertise and executing projects in this field for years.”

    The company’s flagship project, BGV Graphite, is being developed at the Balakhivske deposit in Ukraine’s Kirovohrad region. By early 2025, BGV completed the preliminary feasibility study (PFS)and pilot technological tests for the final product. In collaboration with Finland’s Metso, the company is working on basic engineering for an enrichment plant, with construction slated to begin in the first quarter of 2026.

    Additionally, BGV has made significant strides in producing battery-quality graphite. In 2024, the company, in partnership with Germany’s ANZAPLAN, successfully conducted tests to achieve 99.99% purity and produce spherical graphite (SPG), a key component in lithium-ion batteries. Design work for the SPG production plant is expected to commence in 2025.

    Another major initiative is the BGV Beryllium project, which includes verification drilling and extensive studies to explore the potential for extracting zinc and rare earth elements. The company aims to complete the PFS for this project by 2025, adhering to international standards.

  • Ukraine’s Critical Materials Sector: Challenges and Investment Potential

    Ukraine’s Critical Materials Sector: Challenges and Investment Potential

    Ukraine’s critical materials sector was the focus of the “Strategic Resources of Ukraine” Conference, held within the framework of the Economic Growth Strategy until 2040. The event, developed by Boston Consulting Group in partnership with the We Build Ukraine think tank, assessed investment prospects and key challenges in the industry.

    The metals and mining industry remains a cornerstone of Ukraine’s economy, contributing 6.1% to GDP and 30% of total exports (as of 2021). Despite the country’s vast reserves and historically low-cost structure, the industry faces asset losses, infrastructure damage, and labor shortages due to the ongoing war. Ferrous metals mining, concentrated in the Kryvyi Rih basin, remains largely under Ukrainian control, while non-ferrous materials, including precious metals and rare earth elements, are crucial for sectoral growth. However, the war has shifted export dynamics, increasing dependence on raw ore exports and leading to profitability declines and logistical challenges.

    Globally, the demand for critical raw materials is intensifying, driven by their essential role in industrial production, technological development, and renewable energy. However, supply chains face high geographic concentration, long project development timelines, declining resource quality, environmental concerns, and climate risks.

    Investment in Ukraine’s mining sector is hindered by multiple barriers:

    • State policy gaps, including the lack of an updated critical materials strategy and an outdated mineral classification system.
    • Institutional shortcomings, such as fragmented geological data, secrecy in resource information, and complex land acquisition procedures.
    • Limited state support, with no fiscal incentives, war risk insurance, or export assistance for mineral companies.

    Despite these obstacles, Ukraine has significant potential to attract international investment in critical raw materials extraction, processing, and exports. The country must develop a long-term strategy to leverage its mineral wealth, strengthen economic independence, and accelerate green energy transition.

  • Sixteen Finnish Projects Apply for EU Strategic Status Under Critical Raw Materials Act

    Sixteen Finnish Projects Apply for EU Strategic Status Under Critical Raw Materials Act

    Sixteen projects in Finland have applied for strategic project status under the European Union’s Critical Raw Materials Act, aiming to strengthen Europe’s raw material production and reduce external dependencies. The European Commission will review the applications and decide on the strategic designation by March 2025.

    On January 23, 2025, the Finnish Government confirmed that it would not exercise its national right to object to any of the applications. While the European Commission consults with Member States before making its final decision, the Finnish authorities have chosen to support all submitted projects.

    The Critical Raw Materials Act is a key component of the EU’s strategy to secure essential resources for industries such as renewable energy, battery production, and advanced technologies. Strategic project status grants selected projects regulatory advantages, faster permitting, and potential financial support to accelerate development.

    Due to confidentiality rules under the Act on the Openness of Government Activities, specific details about the applicants remain undisclosed during the evaluation process. However, the final list of approved strategic projects is expected to be published following the Commission’s decision in March.