As the mining industry prepares to gather for the fourth time in June in Skellefteå, Sweden for Euro Mine Expo, the European perspective is in focus. Although Europe is rich in natural resources it is a significant net-importer of most metals and minerals needed to sustain the European economy. The securing of long-term supply of raw materials is crucial and there is an awareness of the need to promote mining within Europe in order to reduce the import dependency of minerals.

At EU and national levels new policies and strategies are now being developed aiming to strengthening Europe’s mineral sector. The European Commission has stated that non-energy raw materials are vital inputs for the EU economy. At the same time access to such raw material for EU industry and citizens is becoming increasingly difficult.

At the Euro Mine Expo conference in Skellefteå, one day is reserved for the European mining industry. Amongst the speakers Marita Ulvskog, member of the European parliament, will speak on the topic Europe’s Raw Material Challenges.

An insight into the European Intelligence Network on the Supply of Raw Materials will be delivered by Juha Kaija, GTK, Geological Survey of Finland. Kaija is the project manager of European Commision´s FP7 project Minerals4EU.

Sven Renner, Head of the Global Extractive Resources at BGR (Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources), will also contribute by speaking on the topic National Mineral Strategies.

Euro Mine Expo also hosts a trade fair. ”The exhibition has been growing and will in 2014 cover more than 1600 square meters indoors” says Ann-Sofie Greander, sales manager for Euro Mine Expo. “2014 is no exception; the exhibitors registered are not only European, we will see companies from all over the globe” Greander continues. The trade fair with more than 200 exhibitors provides a unique opportunity to meet companies and forge new business contacts in exploration, mining, equipment suppliers, service and consultants. The indoor area is fully booked, but there are still outdoor stands available.