CRM-Facility hosts New Caledonia Delegation at the EIT Raw Materials Summit

During the EIT RawMaterials Summit, the CRM Facility hosted a dedicated side event bringing together public authorities and industrial stakeholders from New Caledonia and Europe to discuss the strategic role of nickel in strengthening resilient and sustainable European value chains.

The session highlighted the growing importance of secure and responsibly sourced nickel for the energy transition, particularly in relation to battery materials and stainless-steel production. Discussions focused on the need to establish trusted international partnerships capable of ensuring long-term access to critical raw materials while maintaining high environmental, social and governance standards.

The first part of the event provided an overview of New Caledonia’s political, economic and regulatory landscape, presenting the territory as a reliable strategic partner for Europe. This was followed by an interactive roundtable discussion between New Caledonian representatives and European industry stakeholders on supply chain needs, industrial cooperation and future alignment opportunities.

The programme concluded with forward-looking exchanges on how Europe and New Caledonia can deepen cooperation on sustainable sourcing, industrial partnerships and long-term nickel supply security. Following the Summit, the delegation continued its engagement in Belgium through technical visits and discussions with KU Leuven and VITO, focusing on innovation, advanced materials and recycling technologies relevant to future nickel value chains.