EU launches first raw materials diversification round

The European Commission has launched the first round of its Raw Materials Mechanism, turning a long-planned diversification effort into an operational platform for buyers and suppliers.

The Commission said the mechanism is designed to aggregate demand and connect EU companies with suppliers of strategic raw materials. It is part of the EU’s wider effort to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthen supply chains.

The first diversification round focuses on rare earths, battery materials and defence-related raw materials. The Commission said companies can register during spring 2026, and it has scheduled a webinar on April 23 to explain the process.

The launch follows earlier Commission work on raw materials policy, including plans for joint purchasing and stockpiling. The new round is the first concrete step in the mechanism’s public rollout.

Officials have not yet said how many companies will participate or whether the first round will produce supply deals, but the launch gives the platform a formal start date and a practical next step for industry.