Bernhard Kluttig, director-general for industrial policy at Germany’s Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, is set to attend IMARC 2024 and discuss the development of stronger economic ties with Australia, along with the increasing demand in Europe for Australia’s critical minerals and energy resources. Mining Beacon editor Richard Roberts recently spoke with Kluttig to gain insights into his upcoming visit to Australia and his involvement at the conference.
### Kluttig’s Objectives at IMARC
Kluttig’s primary aim during his visit to IMARC is to foster dialogue and cooperation between Australia and Germany that will lead to mutual growth and success. By engaging with various stakeholders, including government officials, industry representatives, and NGOs, Kluttig hopes to identify potential synergies between Australian and German resource policies. This collaboration could result in beneficial opportunities for both countries in the resources sector.
**Additional Insight:** Kluttig’s emphasis on fostering partnerships reflects the importance of international collaboration in the mining and resources industry to ensure sustainable growth and development.
### Australia’s Mining Industry
Kluttig acknowledges the impressive role of Australia’s mining industry in the global supply chain of resources. Australia’s diverse mining projects, ranging from traditional metals like gold and iron to critical minerals such as lithium and graphite, showcase the sector’s adaptability to changing industry needs. Kluttig highlights the industry’s significance in the Australian economy, job creation, and technological advancements. Additionally, he notes the active participation of German companies in the Australian mining sector, offering advanced technologies and solutions.
**Additional Insight:** The partnership between Australian and German companies signifies a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in the mining industry, driving the exchange of expertise and technologies for the benefit of both nations.
### Importance of the German-Australian Critical Minerals Alliance
The formation of the German-Australian Critical Minerals Alliance in 2022 signifies the growing economic ties between the two countries. This alliance plays a vital role in strengthening trade relations and promoting cooperation in critical raw materials. Kluttig underscores the significance of Australia as a key partner for Germany in diversifying external trade relations and intensifying cooperation, especially in the critical minerals sector.
**Additional Insight:** The alliance serves as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, facilitating partnerships between German and Australian stakeholders to enhance resource supply chains and drive innovation in critical mineral projects.
### Future Demand for Critical Minerals in Germany
Kluttig anticipates an increase in Germany’s demand for critical raw materials in the coming years, driven by the transition to sustainable and renewable technologies. Technologies like e-mobility, wind power, and hydrogen require specific critical minerals, emphasizing the importance of a stable and diversified supply chain. He emphasizes the role of innovative recycling and circular economy practices in reducing dependency on primary raw materials.
**Additional Insight:** The forecasted demand for critical minerals underscores the importance of sustainable resource management and the need for collaborative efforts to ensure a stable supply for future technologies and industries.
### Germany’s Climate Protection Contracts
Germany’s initiatives, such as carbon contracts for difference, aim to support the industrial sector in decarbonizing and transitioning to climate-friendly manufacturing methods. These contracts mitigate price risks for companies and promote the adoption of transformative technologies essential for achieving climate goals. Industry reception to these initiatives has been positive, with a focus on innovative projects and technologies contributing to climate neutrality.
**Additional Insight:** The implementation of climate protection contracts reflects Germany’s commitment to sustainable industrial practices and the transition to a low-carbon economy, paving the way for innovative solutions and advancements in key industrial sectors.
