Greenland warns it may turn to China if US and EU shun mining investments

By Elías Thorsson May 27, 2025
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A view shows the city of Nuuk, Greenland, March 28, 2025. REUTERS/Leonhard Foeger/File Photo

Greenland’s government is calling on the United States and European Union to step up investments in its mining sector — or risk losing influence in the Arctic to China. In an interview with the Financial Times, business and mineral resources minister Naaja Nathanielsen said the semi-autonomous Danish territory needs outside capital to diversify its economy and develop key industries like mining and tourism. While Greenland prefers Western partnerships, she warned that continued hesitation could force the government to consider Chinese investors.

  • Nathanielsen said Greenland wants Western investment but will “need to look elsewhere” if Europe and the US do not engage soon.

  • The Arctic island holds valuable but difficult-to-access mineral reserves including gold and copper.

  • A memorandum on mineral cooperation signed with the US during Trump’s presidency is expiring, and the Biden administration showed no interest in renewing it.

  • Nathanielsen criticized Donald Trump’s previous suggestion that the US might acquire Greenland, calling it “disrespectful and distasteful.”

  • Chinese mining presence in Greenland is minimal, with only two minority stakes in inactive projects. Nathanielsen speculated Chinese investors are being cautious to avoid provocation.

  • Greenland just awarded its first mining licence under a new code to a Danish-French group for a €150mn anorthosite project, backed by local and European investors.

  • The country currently has two operating mines and two others with licences but no production.

  • Greenland’s new coalition government is focused on economic development but wary of both Chinese and American geopolitical motives.

  • Nathanielsen said the EU is a better fit due to its need for critical minerals and alignment on environmental standards.

  • She added that the government is struggling to find its place in a shifting global order, noting that “Chinese investment is of course problematic, but so, to some extent, is American.”