Abstract

By comparing the EU’s list of Critical Raw Materials (2020) and taking into consideration the production cycles and the potential of industrial development, the study proposes a reasoned analysis of the strategic non-energy raw materials’ needs in Italy. The analysis of the national import of raw materials (years 2015-2020) shows a considerable discrepancy between the Critical Raw Materials at the European level and the Strategic Raw Materials for the functioning of the Italian industry. The results underline the necessity to prospectively manage the future scenarios for Critical Raw Materials, with regard to both the the emerging risk component and the production of materials and infrastructures required by the energy transition. The correct planning of the Strategic Raw Materials’ supply at the political and economic level can transform these matters into a determinant of value, rather than a mortgage on the required recovery.