Evion Group (ASX:EVG) Maniry Wins EU Strategic Tag Amid Graphite Supply Shift

Highlights

• EU recognises Maniry Graphite Project in Madagascar as a Strategic Project

• Panthera JV secures maiden US shipment of expandable graphite

• RN10 highway upgrade improves logistical access to graphite mine

Evion Group NL (ASX:EVG), listed on the All Ordinaries, is progressing its Maniry Graphite Project in Madagascar, which has now been officially recognised as a Strategic Project by the European Union under its Critical Raw Materials Act. This designation positions Maniry as a significant contributor to future European critical mineral supply chains and enhances its access to permits, funding avenues, and institutional partnerships.

EU Strategic Recognition Supports Fast-Tracking Development

The strategic classification of Maniry is the first such designation granted to a graphite project in Africa. Issued during the June quarter, this recognition is expected to streamline regulatory approvals, improve funding accessibility, and strengthen government-level engagement across the EU.

Evion is collaborating with European advisors to finalise a grant funding submission. This support is expected to assist in accelerating development timelines and enable job creation initiatives around the Maniry site.

Tenement Renewals Strengthen Legal Positioning Under New Code

During the same period, Evion renewed three of its key permits—PR3432, PR25606, and PR39750—under Madagascar’s revised Mining Code. The company anticipates the full transition from exploration permits to mining licences soon, with environmental approvals also advancing following recent site assessments by Madagascar’s environmental regulator.

This positions Evion as one of the first operators to align its tenure structure with updated mining legislation, enhancing its compliance posture.

Infrastructure Enhancements Bolster Maniry Logistics

The World Bank–funded upgrade of Madagascar’s RN10 highway is expected to significantly benefit project logistics. The highway runs through key regional hubs and improves all-weather access to the Maniry Graphite Project. This infrastructure boost is anticipated to lower transport costs and facilitate future offtake negotiations.

The proposed west coast port expansion is also under evaluation, offering an additional avenue to reduce shipping costs and enhance export efficiency.

Global Graphite Demand Drives Strategic Realignment

According to global supply forecasts, the graphite sector is undergoing structural change driven by electric vehicle (EV) production and the energy transition. Projections highlight growing demand, coupled with a shift away from dominant supply sources.

Madagascar, now the leading natural graphite exporter outside China, is positioned as a critical supplier amid the global push for diversified and sustainable sourcing. Evion is targeting long-term supply pathways into Europe, Asia, and the United States.

Panthera JV Progresses Expandable Graphite Exports

Evion’s joint venture, Panthera Graphite Technologies, based in India, locked in its first US export shipment agreement for expandable graphite. While initial shipments experienced delays due to geopolitical logistics, deliveries are now underway.

Panthera, a collaboration between Evion and Metachem, is advancing to its next production stage. Capacity is expected to increase significantly, with revenues projected to grow accordingly. Effluent treatment upgrades at the Pune facility have enabled higher output, and market demand for processed graphite remains steady.

Funding and Cash Management Outlook

During the quarter, Evion maintained a cash balance sufficient to cover near-term activities. Expenditure was allocated toward Maniry’s development, contributions to the Panthera JV, and operational needs.

Funding discussions are ongoing as the company seeks to support continued development progress at Maniry and future expansion within its critical minerals portfolio, including copper tenement applications in southern Madagascar.