Ukraine opens up subsoil to investors: new reform will bring billions of dollars

Ukraine is opening up its subsoil to investors through a comprehensive subsoil use reform. The goal is to attract private capital to extract critical raw materials, gas and oil, speed up permitting and guarantee transparency. The government expects billions of dollars in investments and export growth.

Key elements of the reform

• Transparent electronic auctions deposits (including lithium, titanium, nickel, uranium, rare earths) through a single platform.

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• Single window for permissionsReduced approval times and digital procedures.

• Investor protectionStabilisation clauses in contracts, international arbitration, clear rent methodology.

• Public datageological reports, maps and 3D models in the public domain.

• Environmental standardsEnvironmental impact assessment, reclamation plans, local benefits.

• International partnersIntegration into EU/US supply chains for critical minerals.

Why it matters

Ukraine is opening up its subsoil to investors to turn its natural resources into long-term growth:

• Energy securityIncreasing domestic gas production will reduce imports.

• Industrial breakthrough: processing of raw materials in Ukraine adds jobs and foreign exchange earnings.

• Exports to the EUCritical minerals are in demand by the green economy.

Which industries will benefit

Critical minerals

• Lithium (batteries), titanium (aerospace), manganese and nickel (steel, batteries), rare earths (electric motors).

Hydrocarbons

• Onshore and offshore exploration, modernisation of storage and transportation infrastructure.

Processing and metallurgy

• Cathode materials for batteries, titanium semi-finished products, special powders for 3D printing.

How access to the fields will work

Auctions and contracts

• open online bidding with fixed licence conditions.

• Production sharing agreements for complex/capital-intensive projects.

• Timing.: issuing special permits within a clear calendar timeframe.

Taxes and royalties

• Transparent rent formula depending on the price of raw materials and the depth of processing.

• Local budgets receive a share of the proceeds.

Safeguards for nature and communities

• Required. EIA, water/air and noise monitoring.

• Reclamation plans and financial guarantees.

• Community participationConsultations, social investments, priority of local employment.

What it means for business

• Clear entry rules, less bureaucracy, faster investment decisions.

• Opportunity. vertical integrationFrom exploration to processing and export.

• Access to international financing for green supply chains.

Next steps for the state

• Updating bylaws and technical regulations.

• Full Digitalisation of geodata and the subsoil user's office.

• Pilot auctions with «high-quality» geology and guaranteed permit terms.

Bottom line.

Ukraine is opening up its subsoil to investors and placing a premium on transparency, technology and environmental responsibility. If the reform is implemented consistently, the country will receive billions of dollars in investments, new production facilities and stronger positions in the markets for critical raw materials.