16 Finland-based projects apply for strategic project status under EU Critical Raw Materials Act – Finland refrains from its right to object

Sixteen projects located in Finland have applied for strategic project status at the European Commission under the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act. The Commission will decide which projects will be granted the strategic project status. On 23 January 2025, the Finnish Government stated it would not use its national right to object to any of the applications.

Applications for a strategic project status are submitted to the European Commission, which decides on the granting of strategic status after consulting the Member State in whose territory the project is located. The European Commission will consider the positions of Member States on the projects and decide on the strategic project status in March 2025. 
 
The status as a strategic project is a key element of the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act, by which the European Union aims to strengthen European raw material production and reduce harmful dependencies. 
 
In accordance with the European Commission’s view and under the provisions of the Act on the Openness of Government Activities, more detailed information on the projects that have applied for strategic status is considered confidential during the application process. 
 
Inquiries: 
Juhapekka Ristola, Director General, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 295 047 399