Contact Us

Schengen Area

Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition

Facilitating market development across the Schengen Area

Facilitating market development across the Schengen Area, comprising 27 European countries that have abolished internal border controls presents significant opportunities to enhance economic integration, mobility, and sustainable growth throughout Europe. By enabling seamless cross-border movement of goods, services, investments, and people, the Schengen framework reduces transaction costs, strengthens market efficiency, and promotes deeper collaboration across sectors such as logistics, tourism, advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, agriculture, energy, and critical minerals essential for Europe's energy transition and technological competitiveness. Through harmonised regulatory standards, strategic infrastructure investments, and enhanced connectivity, the Schengen Area encourages robust public-private partnerships, supports innovation, and fosters inclusive economic growth. Ultimately, facilitating market development within the Schengen Area creates a dynamic, integrated marketplace that enhances economic resilience, resource security, and sustainable prosperity across Europe.

Schengen Area members

The Schengen Area consists of 23 EU Member States and 4 EFTA countries. It is a zone within Europe where internal border checks are eliminated, allowing for the free movement of people. Named after the 1985 Schengen Agreement signed in Luxembourg, it includes most European Union countries except Ireland and some newer members, along with non-EU countries like Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. The area facilitates easier travel and business operations and includes a harmonized visa policy for short stays. Members cooperate on police, judicial, and security matters to maintain safety without internal borders.

Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, and Romania are members of the European Union but do not participate in the Schengen Area.

Starting from March 31, 2024, air and sea border controls between Schengen member states and Bulgaria and Romania will cease, but land border checks will continue.

LithoX | Critical Minerals and the Global Energy Transition

The global energy transition to net zero is underway. Who is leading? How are supply chains being secured? How do the geopolitics vary? SFA (Oxford) provides a global overview of critical minerals, policy and legislation.

Economic and Trade Groups

Economic and trade groups promote international trade, economic cooperation, and development. They facilitate market access, reduce trade barriers, and enhance global economic stability and growth through collaboration and policymaking, playing a vital role in supporting the energy transition.

Meet the Critical Minerals team

Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.

Henk de Hoop

Chief Executive Officer

Beresford Clarke

Managing Director: Technical & Research

Jamie Underwood

Principal Consultant

Ismet Soyocak

ESG & Critical Minerals Lead

Rj Coetzee

Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies

Dr Sandeep Kaler

Market Strategy Analyst

How can we help you?

SFA (Oxford) provides bespoke, independent intelligence on the strategic metal markets, specifically tailored to your needs. To find out more about what we can offer you, please contact us.

Get in touch