ANZAPLANs Managing Director, Dr. Reiner Haus attended the EIT RawMaterials event "Rare Earths and Magnets – Expanding European Capacities", contributing to discussions on strengthening Europe's position in the sector. Key takeaways include:
1. Urgency in Building European Supply Chains
European REE stocks are critically low. Projects presented Rare Earths Norway, Mkango Resources (Poland), and LKAB (Sweden) are promising, but request stronger policy support to become viable.
2. US Leads with Speed and Structure
The US has implemented a full-spectrum strategy — from price floors to off-take agreements and direct invest (e.g. MP Materials) — enabling rapid development of domestic REE value chains. Europe is lagging and must adopt a similarly bold and integrated approach.
3. OEMs Signal Demand but Lack European Commitment
Although indicating strong demand European OEMs are hesitant to drive off-take agreements. Despite strategic importance, premium pricing seems not a viable option for automotive applications. Instead, in this sector cost remains the decisive factor.
4. Call for a Brave, Coordinated European Response
Europe must move beyond fragmented efforts. A “Made in Europe” industrial culture is needed, with coordinated action across exploration, mining, processing, and manufacturing — backed by stable political and commercial frameworks and strategic investment.
5. Strategic Shift Toward Defense Applications
The defense sector supersedes Energy Transition in REE pull, now driving demand for rare earth magnets, showing greater willingness to pay premium prices. The narrative is shifting from cost-per-magnet to strategic value — ensuring operational continuity and national security.