Titanium metal in the EU: Strategic relevance and circularity potential

This report examines the strategic importance of titanium metal for the European Union (EU) economy and explores the potential for increased circularity in its value chain. Recognised as both a critical and strategic raw material under the EU Critical Raw Materials Act, titanium is essential for key sectors such as civil aviation, defence, space, and advanced manufacturing. The supply chain faces significant challenges due to geopolitical tensions, resource dependency, and sustainability demands, with a notable gap between global supply and projected demand. Chapter 2 analyses the titanium supply chain, highlighting the EU's reliance on imports and the need for diversification and enhanced domestic capabilities. Chapter 3 focuses on the demand side, detailing the EU's strategic industries that depend on titanium. Chapter 4 delves into the geopolitical dynamics, assessing the EU's position relative to major global players and the impact of Russia’s unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine on the supply chain. Chapter 5 addresses the opportunities and challenges in terms of increasing circularity in the titanium supply chain by identifying drivers and barriers, measuring research and innovation intensity through academic publications and patents, and evaluating enhanced circularity scenarios using macroeconomic modelling. The report concludes, in Chapter 6, with potential policy interventions aimed at strengthening the EU's titanium supply chain, reducing external dependencies, and promoting a transition to a circular economy.