Sydney, Australia — At the 2025 International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) to be held on 21-23 October 2025, Finnish delegates will highlight the growing opportunities for Australia–Finland collaboration as Europe diversifies its supply of critical minerals, essential for the energy transition and net zero.

Momentum is building following the entry into force of the European Union’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) in 2024. Among other things, the CRMA aims to lower the EU’s dependencies on imports from single-country suppliers. It mandates that by 2030, no more than 65% of the EU’s annual consumption of strategic raw materials can come from a single country outside of the EU.

Combined with the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the EU and Australia on critical and strategic minerals partnership, the stage is set for new, fruitful partnerships.

Dr. Jarkko Vesa, Chief Specialist in Minerals Policy at Finland’s Ministry of Economic AWairs and Employment, said: “The MOU and the CRMA were good news for Australian miners. In four years, Europe will need to have shifted 35% of its critical mineral supply chain to new sources.

"Finland is committed to building a sustainable and secure future for critical minerals. Together with Australia, we see great potential to lead innovation, strengthen supply chains, and support the global clean transition," said Dr. Vesa.

Supported by a highly skilled labour force, Finland plays a key role in Europe’s battery ecosystem, producing raw materials for EVs, developing circular solutions, and manufacturing electric machinery. It has solutions across the entire battery supply chain.

Finland is also a global leader in sustainable and circular mining, with around 80% of the world’s underground mining technology originating from Finland and Sweden.

“Finland and Australia are exploring deeper cooperation in the critical minerals sector to support the clean energy transition and enhance supply chain resilience. We share a strong alignment in mineral recycling, mining technology, joint research, and supply chain traceability,” said Dr. Vesa.

“By working together, the two nations can lead the way in building a more resilient and sustainable global minerals sector. Both countries recognise the urgency of securing access to minerals essential for clean technologies, digitalisation, and defence,” said Dr. Vesa.

Finland’s National Mineral Strategy, updated in December 2024, aims to grow the country’s mineral cluster, promote sustainable practices, and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy. It emphasises circular economy, responsible operations, skills development, international collaboration, and supply security.

“Australia is Finland’s fourth-largest export market outside of Europe, and a priority country in the Finnish Government Program. Finnish companies already have a strong presence across the minerals value chain in Australia, supporting our shared goals,” said Ambassador of Finland, Arto Haapea.”

 Birgit Tegethoff, Senior Advisor for Business Finland Australia, said Finland and Australia are likeminded partners in their pursuit of a secure and sustainable critical minerals and metals sector.

“The breadth, high profile and expertise of speakers at our sideline event are indicative of the rich opportunities for Australian and Finnish industries. We look forward to building on an already strong relationship and seizing on the many timely opportunities before us,” said Ms. Tegethoff.