Belgium backs major germanium plant in DR Congo

Belgium backs major germanium plant in DR Congo

Belgium has approved a state guarantee to help cover advance payments for future germanium supplies from DR Congo. The pact backs a plant that, once at full capacity, could supply up to 15% of the world’s demand for the critical mineral, as Europe seeks to reduce its reliance on China.The guarantee would allow Umicore, a major Brussels-based refiner, to pay upfront for future germanium supplies under terms still being negotiated, while shifting …