A unified front for our valuable European magnesia!

On December 9, 2024, leaders of the European magnesite and magnesia industry came together in Brussels to sign a pledge advocating for the recognition of magnesia as a strategic raw material within the European Union’s Critical and Strategic Raw Materials framework. This milestone event, was organized by Euromines and RHI Magnesita.

The pledge underscores the indispensable role of magnesite and magnesia in supporting a resilient, self-sufficient, and sustainable European economy. These materials are vital to critical industries, including renewable energy technologies, sustainable construction, agricultural advancements, and environmental protection solutions. Furthermore, magnesia plays a pivotal role in driving decarbonization and advancing green technologies such as next-generation batteries, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems—reinforcing its significance in Europe’s green transition and industrial future.

The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to address the pressing need to secure Europe’s raw material supply chains. Discussions underscored Europe’s heavy reliance on external suppliers for magnesia, with over 65% of global production currently sourced from China. This reliance underscores the urgency of recognizing magnesia as a strategic raw material to promote supply chain diversification and strengthen industrial resilience.

Representatives from Grecian Magnesite, Magnesitas de Rubian, Magnesitas Navarras, Nedmag, RHI Magnesita, and SMZ, emphasized their shared vision and commitment to responsible mining and sustainability. Key messages from the event included the role of magnesia in supporting industrial competitiveness and decarbonization efforts across Europe.