Madrid brings together experts to examine the Iberian role in critical raw materials

On 14 November 2025, Madrid became the epicentre of the European debate on the future of critical raw materials and the strategic role of sustainable mining, an area that has moved to the forefront of the European Union’s political and economic agenda. The event, “Critical Raw Materials in Europe: Challenges and Opportunities for Business”, was organised by Madrid Network and Leapman, in collaboration with the CSIC and the Official College of Mining Engineers of Central Spain (COIMCE).

The session was moderated by Gema Sanz, Director of Institutional Relations at Madrid Network, who guided the discussions and facilitated the exchange among the participating experts.

The meeting brought together specialists from industry, public administration and the scientific community to analyse the impact of the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), the European regulation that, since March 2024, has imposed stricter —yet favourable— conditions to promote the development, transformation and responsible management of strategic resources such as lithium, cobalt, tungsten and rare earth elements. The energy transition, digitalisation and the deployment of advanced technologies have increased the value of these materials, as well as the need to improve processes through digital project management applied to industrial and mining activities.

Europe Under a New Regulatory Framework

Pedro Balsa, Managing Partner of Leapman, emphasised that the CRMA represents a substantial shift for European companies, introducing more agile procedures and measures that facilitate the launch of strategic projects —particularly relevant for modern mining activities and efficient planning supported by advanced digital tools.

Spain and the Iberian Peninsula: A Key Territory

From the EIT RawMaterials Hub South Europe, Manuel Regueiro highlighted that Spain has the technological, geological and industrial foundations necessary to fully integrate into the European value chains associated with these raw materials. He stressed that the Iberian Peninsula has significant potential for developing responsible mining practices that combine environmental sustainability with operational efficiency.

However, he warned that stronger coordination between industry, research institutions and public administrations will be essential to fully capitalise on these opportunities. This challenge also involves modernising administrative and management processes through digital project management approaches that can shorten timelines and improve project traceability.

For his part, Alfonso Vázquez, Dean-President of COIMCE, underscored the importance of balancing mining, environmental and social interests. He recalled that Spain possesses considerable geological potential, but still faces administrative hurdles and a public perception that often remains unfavourable toward mining. He insisted that transparency and effective communication will be crucial to drive viable projects within the European framework and to demonstrate that mining can meet the sustainability standards required by the EU.

Call to Action: A Strategic Opportunity for the Iberian Peninsula

The event concluded with a clear and direct message addressed to companies and territories with relevant geological resources. The new European framework opens a particularly significant window of opportunity for the Iberian Peninsula, which combines natural conditions, industrial capacity and a long mining tradition that position it as a priority region for critical raw material projects.

The CRMA sets production, processing and recycling targets within EU territory. This places Spain and Portugal at an advantage thanks to:

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  Their mineralogical potential in strategic elements.

  
  


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  Existing mining projects in advanced phases that can meet European criteria.

  
  


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  The EU’s urgent need to diversify supply and strengthen its strategic autonomy.

  
  

For companies, the message is unequivocal:
now is the time to position themselves within a regulatory environment that favours mining and processing projects inside Europe, and that will require operators capable of providing stable, traceable and sustainable supply in line with EU standards. This context represents a strong opportunity for businesses involved in exploration, mining, processing and associated services to grow, consolidate and actively participate in the emerging European value chain for critical raw materials.

Madrid Network reaffirmed its commitment to continue providing a platform for dialogue and analysis, enabling companies to anticipate changes and seize this decisive moment for the European economy and, particularly, for the development of the Iberian Peninsula as a strategic hub for resources and sustainable mining.

Contact Leapman

For organisations looking to improve their positioning in the sector, adapt to the new European framework or strengthen their capabilities in project management, mining and sustainability, Leapman offers specialised expertise to support companies throughout this process.
Businesses interested in more information or direct contact may reach out to Leapman.