Galicia has found itself in the spotlight of Europe’s mining industry. Beneath the region lie 18 out of 34 minerals deemed critical for the European Union’s industry and security—over half of the entire list, making Galicia a unique spot on the continent’s map. Experts estimate the value of these resources could reach €45 billion. Regional authorities are already mapping out plans to develop these assets, banking on an economic boost and new jobs.
Five Metal Corridors: Galicia’s Geological Wealth
Northwest Spain is home to five so-called metallomagnetic corridors, each with its own unique set of mineral resources. The first corridor, stretching from Cabo Ortegal to Moeche, is rich in chromium and platinum-group metals, covering around 200 square kilometers. These elements are essential for manufacturing electric vehicles, electronics, and equipment for hydrogen energy.
The second corridor, spanning the Santiago-Touro-Lalín zone, contains the largest copper deposit in Galicia. Cobalt, zinc, gallium, germanium, and indium are also found here—metals in high demand for digital technologies, renewable energy, and battery production. The third corridor, located in the province of Pontevedra, is known for its deposits of tantalum, niobium, lithium, and tin. Tantalum is especially valuable—few places in Europe offer any industrial extraction of this metal.
Mineral Resources for New Technologies
The fourth corridor, running through San Fins and Santa Comba, contains tungsten, tin, and bismuth. These metals are used to create exceptionally strong alloys that are in demand in the defense, electronics, and heavy industries. During World War II, German industry actively purchased Galician tungsten for armaments production.
The fifth and longest corridor—Vigo-Tui-Porriño—stands out for its high concentration of rare earth elements, antimony, and barite. This area concentrates most of Galicia’s rare earth potential, which is critical for developing green technologies and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
Challenges and opportunities: striking a balance between the economy and the environment
Despite its immense potential, regional authorities emphasize the importance of a cautious approach to mineral development. Galicia has a law requiring a portion of mining profits to remain in the region and be used for local development. In recent years, some projects have sparked protests from residents and environmentalists. For example, an attempt to resume coltan mining in Viana do Bolo was halted by a court, while the copper mine in Touro has become the center of heated debate due to concerns about environmental pollution.
Several mines are already operating in the region, such as the magnesium mine in O Incio (Lugo). In 2026, the Galician authorities plan to hold a new tender for mining rights, primarily targeting critical minerals such as lithium and tungsten. In 2025, the highest number of applications came from the province of A Coruña, while Ourense saw only two. In other provinces, interest in new projects remains limited for now.
Galicia — Europe’s Emerging Hub for Strategic Resources
Today, Galicia leads the EU in reserves of strategic minerals. These resources are essential for the defense, aerospace, energy, and digital sectors. The region could become a key player in the European raw materials market if it makes the most of its advantages and ensures sustainable development. Authorities have pledged to balance economic interests with environmental protection so that the region’s mineral wealth becomes a guarantee of prosperity for future generations.
