Press release from the Ministry of Climate and Business

The permit processes for mines are made more efficient through amendments to the Minerals Act

Published04 April 2024

The government has today decided on a bill that proposes changes to the Minerals Act. The proposed changes are part of the government's work to simplify and streamline the permit processes. The changes mean that a Natura 2000 permit will no longer be a prerequisite for an application for a processing concession to be granted.

- We need more mines to reduce Sweden's and the EU's dependence on raw materials from third countries. A safe and sustainable supply of minerals and metals is necessary to enable green social construction, strengthen competitiveness and electrify Sweden. This proposal is a cornerstone in the government's work to streamline and make permit processes more predictable, says Energy and Industry Minister Ebba Busch.

The proposed changes mean that a Natura 2000 permit, in cases where such a permit is required, should not be a prerequisite for an application for a processing concession to be granted. The examination of a Natura 2000 permit can instead be done in connection with the examination of an environmental permit.

It is also proposed that a clarification be introduced in the Minerals Act that the information in the environmental impact statement must have the scope and degree of detail needed for the examination of the concession application.

In relation to the Legislative Council's referral, certain adjustments have been made based on views from the Legislative Council.

The changes are proposed to enter into force on 1 July 2024.