Bravura to Build Large-Scale Lithium Processing Plant in Germany by 2027

Leading African mining group Bravura, a sister company to AITEO, Africa's largest indigenous oil and gas producer, has announced plans to establish a large-scale lithium processing plant in Germany by 2027. The plant will produce lithium hydroxide, a key component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, through a unique African-German supply chain. The final location for the plant is expected to be determined by early 2025.

The lithium processing project is already in advanced planning stages, with Dorfner Anzaplan, based in Germany, leading the development. Bravura plans to source spodumene concentrate from its lithium assets across Africa, which will be transported directly to Germany using Bravura's own fleet of bulk carriers. The lithium hydroxide produced will be supplied directly to German automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers, without any third-party intermediaries, supporting the objectives of the European Critical Raw Materials Act.

This project will position Bravura as the first company in Germany to provide lithium hydroxide directly to automotive manufacturers and suppliers, fulfilling the EU’s mandate for increased domestic lithium processing. By 2030, the European Critical Raw Materials Act requires that 40% of lithium processing be conducted within the EU. Currently, about 95% of the lithium hydroxide used by German OEMs and battery manufacturers is imported from China, underlining the significance of Bravura's plans for strengthening local supply chains.

Bravura is also in discussions regarding offtake agreements with German automotive OEMs and suppliers, as part of its efforts to establish a stable and sustainable supply chain. According to the company, every 1,000 tons of lithium hydroxide produced will enable the production of approximately 25,000 EV batteries, emphasizing the critical role the plant will play in supporting Europe's energy transition.