Origin of European imports of uranium

In 2006, almost 30% of European electricity was generated in nuclear power plants. Anno 2009, 97 % of the uranium used by nuclear plants is not being mined within the EU. Therefore, the EU depends on uranium sources from outside the EU. As a result, a large part of the risks associated with the increasing European demand for nuclear energy is being transferred to non-European states and regions.

Increasing exploration and exploitation in Africa
We do clearly see an increase in exploration and exploitation activities by European and other (Western) companies in Africa. Most probably this is due to increasing costs and regulation in countries with major uranium resources such as Canada and Australia. In 2008, already 18% of the global production of uranium was mined in African countries.

Origin of uranium used in the EU
The top 5 suppliers of uranium to the EU in 2007 were: Russia, Canada, Niger, Australia, and South-Africa and Namibia. The share of European uranium imports from Africa is expected to increase due to expansion of production by (European) companies in various African countries (e.g. Areva’s Imouraren mine in Niger and Bakouma mine in the Central African Republic) in combination with high demand for uranium within the EU.