EU critical raw materials: Italy anticipates to source 16 domestically

Italian authorities are planning to implement a comprehensive package of measures to enhance procurement and reprocessing of critical raw materials, according to a draft decree reviewed by Reuters and reported by Mining.com.

This initiative, championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's administration, underscores a strategic shift towards reducing dependency on imports, particularly from countries such as China. Key among the measures is streamlined permitting procedures designed to expedite the release of mining concessions, facilitating greater domestic extraction of essential materials. This policy shift reflects the government's commitment to bolstering local industries and securing a more self-reliant economic future.

Italy estimates it can domestically source 16 out of the 34 raw materials deemed critical by the European Union, including lithium and bauxite. The draft proposal, led by Industry Minister Adolfo Urso, underscores the urgency of projects related to these materials' extraction, processing, or recycling, stating that they are not just important but 'non-deferrable and urgent '.