As a coalition of more than fifteen strategic lithium projects including Rio Tinto’s Jadar, Fortum Hydromet Harjavalta, and RockTech Lithium’s Guben converter sends a formal letter to the European Commission, concerns are mounting: regulatory uncertainty is stifling investment and jeopardizing Europe’s clean energy ambitions.
More than €10 billion in capital and the resilience of a critical supply chain are at stake.
“The lack of consistency in chemical classification introduces a risk level investor can no longer overlook,” warns Mirco Wojnarowicz, CEO of RockTech Lithium Inc.
The European Chemicals Agency’s classification of lithium salts as Category 1A reproductive toxins is being challenged by global partners including Australia, the U.S., and Chile alongside independent experts.
According to Australian authorities, a more accurate assessment would place lithium salts “at most in Category 2.”
“Europe must rely on rigorous scientific data, not alarmist narratives, to protect its industrial competitiveness,” emphasizes Chad Blewitt, Managing Director of Rio Tinto’s Jadar Project.
This push for regulatory reform reaches far beyond Europe. African nations, especially the DRC, are watching closely. In a global market searching for reliable alternative sources, African lithium ventures are gaining new relevance.
With abundant reserves of critical minerals, the DRC is emerging as a strategic partner capable of diversifying supply chains and meeting rising environmental and social standards.
The coalition’s letter represents a shared conviction: science must underpin policy, investment environments must remain stable, and international cooperation must strike a balance between sustainability, innovation, and competitiveness.
Should Europe adjust its stance, it could preserve its leadership in the global lithium race otherwise, nimbler regions may well seize the momentum.
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