The projects span extraction (8), processing (11), recycling (19) and integrated value chains (8), and cover 15 of the 17 strategic raw materials. Four rare earth projects strengthen the permanent magnet value chain, a key input for electric motors, drives and robot actuators, while three tungsten projects add domestic capacity for a metal that underpins hard-metal cutting tools. Progress on the first batch is already visible: 25 projects have completed their environmental assessment and 17 hold a construction permit. The Raw Materials Mechanism has generated more than 30 matches between suppliers and potential buyers for 10 materials, giving downstream industries a concrete route to secure offtake agreements, and the Commission plans a new call for Strategic Project applications towards the end of 2026.

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