PART OF EUROPE’S SECURITY OF SUPPLY

FORCIT plays a role in defending European democracy both by securing defense capabilities and contributing to civilian industries. While the explosives industry is often associated with military production and the security of supply it provides, civilian explosives manufacturing is also an integral part of the same strategic chain.

Following the change in administration in the United States, critical raw materials have become a key topic of discussion. “This has been debated for years, but now it is gaining real traction. The European Critical Raw Materials Act (ECRMA) sets a goal for Europe to mine 10% of all the critical raw materials it consumes. Currently, the figure is below 3%, meaning a significant increase in self-sufficiency is needed,” explains Joakim Westerlund, CEO of FORCIT Group.

Europe’s strategic autonomy

Critical raw materials are essential for Europe’s green transition, supporting digitalization, electric mobility, and carbon-free energy. At the same time, the defense industry relies on these same resources. “Europe is highly dependent on China for these materials. Compared to Europe’s past reliance on Russian gas five years ago, this dependency is on an entirely different scale,” says Westerlund.

Mining industry’s key role in Scandinavia

Explosives remain the most effective method for extracting these critical metals and minerals from the ground. “This is why FORCIT is an important part of the European value chain,” Westerlund emphasizes. There are currently no viable alternatives to explosives in terms of cost or environmental impact. Securing Europe’s self-sufficiency in critical raw materials is also highly relevant for Scandinavia. Both Finland and Sweden have significant ore deposits, and increasing production in line with the goal of enhancing self-sufficiency will directly impact mining operations in the region.