Finnish Minerals Group joins the call for European preference
We have joined the ‘Call for a European Preference,’ an initiative urging Europe to strengthen its industrial base, secure key value chains and preserve economic sovereignty.
16. February 2026
The call is initiated by the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Stéphane Séjourné and supported by around 1,200 European business and political leaders. It advocates for a ‘Made in Europe’ principle and proposes that public funding and investment should prioritize companies that produce a substantial part of their output on European soil. The initiative aims to create a level playing field, enhance Europe's economic security, and support quality job creation across the continent.
"Joining this call aligns with our core mission to responsibly maximize the value of Finnish minerals and build a strong, sustainable battery value chain in Europe. We think that ‘Made in Europe’ should extend all the way to strategic raw materials mined and processed within the Union," says Matti Hietanen, CEO of Finnish Minerals Group.
The global competition for critical raw materials is intensifying. For Europe to achieve its climate goals and secure its economic sovereignty, it must be able to develop its own resources and industries.
“Our initiatives in Finland such as the Keliber lithium project and Sokli multi-mineral mining project are concrete examples of our commitment. The 'European Preference' provides a vital framework to ensure that such strategic projects receive the support they need to succeed, benefiting all of Europe," says Hietanen.
About Finnish Minerals Group
The mission of Finnish Minerals Group is to responsibly maximise the value of Finnish minerals. We manage the State’s mining industry shareholdings and strive to develop the Finnish value chain of lithium-ion batteries. Through our work, we contribute to Europe moving towards electric transport and a more sustainable future. www.mineralsgroup.fi