MNN (Web Desk); Uzbekistan has strengthened its role in the global critical minerals market by joining two influential international platforms — the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA) and Canada’s Critical Minerals Institute (CMI). The move underscores the country’s ambition to be not just a resource supplier but an innovation-driven partner in the sector.
The Uzbek Technological Metals Plant (TMK), the nation’s leading industry enterprise, formalized its membership in ERMA, marking a key step in implementing last year’s memorandum of understanding between Uzbekistan and the European Union on critical raw materials cooperation.
ERMA plays a central role in shaping Europe’s resource policy and ensuring secure supplies of lithium, tungsten, molybdenum, and rare earth elements for green technologies and energy transition.
Massimo Gasparon, ERMA Director, welcomed TMK’s inclusion, citing opportunities for expanded access to European grants, joint research, and enhanced entry into high-standard international markets.
In a parallel move, TMK also joined the Canada-based CMI — a global think tank linking industry, governments, research bodies, and investors. CMI’s work, including its influential list of 23 critical minerals, serves as a benchmark for industrial strategies worldwide.
CMI CEO Tracy Hughes said the institute could help TMK forge partnerships with leading companies in North America, highlighting the need for dependable partners like Uzbekistan.
Membership in CMI will provide Uzbekistan with strategic intelligence on global resource trends, integration into international supply chains, participation in technology transfer, and access to weekly analytical reports on market and policy developments.
By aligning with ERMA and CMI, Uzbekistan aims to integrate into advanced industrial networks, strengthen its national interests, and contribute to global supply security — positioning itself as a vital player in securing the raw materials needed for a sustainable, technologically advanced future.
