海牙战略研究中心-推进欧洲矿产安全：荷兰工业的启示（英）-2023.11-83页_5mb

Executive Summary

This report provides an in-depth analysis of critical raw materials (CRMs) and their significance for European mineral security, based on interviews with Dutch industry representatives and desk research. Key findings highlight the growing demand for CRMs driven by the green energy transition and strategic rivalries, such as China's dominance and export restrictions. Dutch companies face challenges including permitting delays, high energy costs, and a fragmented policy environment, while opportunities arise from deep-sea mining technology, recycling, and international partnerships. Policy recommendations emphasize creating an enabling environment, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering collaboration to secure mineral supply chains for strategic sectors like defense and energy.

Introduction

Critical raw materials (CRMs) are essential for vital sectors such as energy, digital technologies, and defense. Global demand for CRMs is increasing due to the green energy transition, leading to supply chain vulnerabilities. The European Union faces risks from concentrated suppliers, particularly China, and geopolitical tensions may lead to further weaponization of mineral dependencies. This study explores how Dutch companies can expand their role in global supply chains to support European mineral security.

Key Findings

Vital Sectors and Minerals

CRMs support sectors like clean energy, defense, and healthcare. The EU has identified 34 critical raw materials, with high demand projected for minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Extraction and processing capabilities are largely within a few countries, and strategic stockpiling is being implemented globally.

Geopolitical Context

Geopolitical competition, especially between the US and China, exacerbates CRM supply risks. Export restrictions and sanctions are increasing, as seen with China's recent controls on gallium and germanium exports. The EU and its member states are responding with legislation like the Critical Raw Materials Act to bolster supply chain resilience.

Dutch Companies Analysis

Dutch companies include multinational giants and smaller enterprises focused on extraction (e.g., salt, sand), processing, recycling, and services. Key challenges are negative public perception, permitting complexity, insufficient financial support, and energy costs. Opportunities include circular economy initiatives, partnerships abroad, and leveraging Dutch expertise in water management and engineering services.

Policy Recommendations

Address Challenges

• Streamline permitting processes and legislation to accelerate project development.
• Facilitate public debate with balanced, fact-based information to address misconceptions.
• Concentrate government mandates to improve coordination and reduce bureaucracy.
• Enhance green energy infrastructure and support industrial competitiveness.

Bolster Opportunities

• Incentivize recycling and circular economy through financial instruments.
• Strengthen Dutch participation in global CRM supply chains via knowledge-sharing and partnerships.
• Invest in education and research to support workforce development and innovation.

72Advancing European Mineral Security | Insights from the Dutch Industry