Statistics of the Swedish Mining Industry 2021

There is strong international interest in Sweden’s mineral industry. Sweden is by far the largest iron ore producer in the EU and the production of base and precious metals is also among the leading ones.

Metals and minerals are used almost everywhere in society. They are needed for technical products such as mobile phones, computers, and solar cells. The energy and climate transition has also led to an exponential increase in demand for several metals and minerals. Today, Europe consumes about a quarter of the world's raw materials, but only produces three percent. The EU is largely dependent on imports

– According to the EU, production in Europe must increase. Sweden has extensive mineral resources, including those that are not currently being mined. We also have a long tradition of mining and processing metals and minerals. Sweden therefore has a special responsibility for the EU's supply of metals and minerals, says Carolina Liljenstolpe at SGU.

During the first half of 2023, Sweden will hold the presidency of the European Union Council. A major challenge will be to manage the crises following the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In this context, raw materials of strategic importance will play a key role. Sweden will, among other things, drive the negotiations for the development of a common raw material legislation. In this work, it is crucial that Sweden also conveys our position as a leading member state in the mining and mineral industry. SGU also has an important task in promoting Sweden as a prospecting country.

– An English summary of the Swedish mining and mineral industry is an important basis for negotiations as it can contribute to the EU’s cohesive view on the mining industry's important contributions to society, both today and tomorrow.

Download Statistics of the Swedish Mining Industry 2021

More mineral statistics in interactive charts