Digest of Mining Sector News: July 2025

1. EU and Chile Sign Strategic Partnership for Lithium and Copper

The European Union and Chile have entered into a new strategic partnership to enhance cooperation in the extraction and supply of critical minerals. Chile, with the world's largest lithium and copper reserves, has committed to becoming a reliable supplier for European industry. Under the agreement, the EU will provide financial and technical support to develop Chilean projects for sustainable mining and processing, as well as to create more transparent and efficient supply chains that meet high environmental standards.

2. Norwegian Company Announces Significant Phosphorus Discovery

In Telemark, Norway, a local mining company has announced a significant new discovery of a phosphorus deposit. Phosphorus is one of the 34 critical raw materials, and the new deposit could be one of the largest in Europe, capable of meeting a substantial portion of European demand. The discovery is important as phosphorus is used not only in agriculture but also in the production of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, making it a strategic asset for the EU's energy transition.

3. New Recycling Technology to Streamline Battery Disposal

An EU-funded international research group has introduced a new, more efficient technology for extracting lithium and other valuable metals from end-of-life lithium-ion batteries. The technology, which is claimed to increase the speed and recovery rate by 30% compared to existing methods, could be a key solution for developing a circular economy. Experts project this will significantly reduce the costs of recycling and make it more economically viable for European companies.