ICDA Members Meeting 2025: Industry Insights and Sustainability Dialogue in Ulanqab
From May 13 to 15, 2025, the International Chromium Development Association (ICDA) held its annual Members Meeting in Ulanqab, Inner Mongolia, China — a strategic hub for ferroalloy and ferrochrome production. The event gathered over 150 delegates from leading companies, public institutions, and industry associations, marking a key moment for global dialogue on the future of the chromium industry. We were proud to take part in this important initiative, contributing as Sustainability Sponsors by promoting sustainable practices through the Chromium Industry Sustainability Awards that highlighted innovation, green transition, and global cooperation in the ferroalloys sector.
A Strategic Event in the Heart of China’s Chromium Industry
The ICDA Members Meeting 2025 took place in a region of increasing importance for global supply chains. With support from the Ulanqab Municipal Government, Xin Gang Lian (the world’s largest ferrochrome producer), and key Chinese trade bodies, the event facilitated high-level conversations on:
- Green energy integration in ferroalloy production
- Innovation in stainless steel and alloys
- The role of BRICS countries in global steel output
- Regulatory developments and sustainability reporting trends
Sustainability at the Center of the Conversation
As Sustainability Sponsors, we actively supported discussions on the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy sources across the ferroalloys value chain. Several presentations underlined the urgency of reducing carbon intensity and increasing the share of renewable energy in metallurgical processes.
Key takeaways included:
- Over 60% of the energy in the new Ulanqab projects will come from green electricity
- Growing pressure for unified, mandatory ESG reporting standards in China
- Strategic approaches to balancing industrial growth with environmental targets
Global Perspectives on Chromium and Ferrochrome
International experts, including Shaun Rein, Dr. Gerhard Pariser (SMR), and Nadia Vinck (Euroalliages), provided insights on macroeconomic trends, policy challenges, and supply chain resilience. The study placed a particular focus on the shift in stainless steel production toward Asia and its implications for energy and raw material markets.
Representatives from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the EU highlighted local challenges and strategies, including infrastructure reform, energy costs, and trade competitiveness.
Looking Ahead: Chromium 2025 in Seville
The event concluded with an invitation to the upcoming Chromium 2025 conference, scheduled to take place in Seville, Spain, from November 4 to 6, 2025. As global demand for chromium grows across various sectors, including renewable energy, construction, and technology, the need for sustainable practices and international alignment becomes a pressing concern.
Our participation in the ICDA Members Meeting 2025 confirmed our commitment to advancing sustainability within the ferroalloy industry. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage with industry peers, exchange knowledge, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with the energy transition and industrial innovation.
We thank the ICDA, the Ulanqab authorities, and all attendees for their contributions to a well-organized and constructive meeting.
