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Romania: Locals push back against plans for magnesium mine

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Alexandra Bidian in Rasinari, Romania
November 12, 2026

Plans for a magnesium mine near the village of Rasinari in Transylvania have met with stiff opposition from locals. The project is being promoted as a way to reduce EU dependence on Chinese imports.

Plans to open a magnesium mine near Rasinari, a village in Romania's Transylvania region, have divided the local community. 

The company behind the project says the mine could help reduce the EU's dependence on Chinese imports of this critical raw material. But residents fear damage to the environment, water pollution and the destruction of a landscape that is extremely precious to them and plays a key part in their lives and livelihoods. 

In a local referendum, almost 98% voted against the project. But will their opposition be enough to stop the mine?

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