# Global lithium and critical minerals sector developments > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-lithium-and-critical-minerals-sector-developments > Updated: 2026-08-15T04:14:53.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. The lithium and critical minerals sector is experiencing various corporate developments and exploration activities. In Germany, AMG Critical Materials completed its takeover of Zinnwald Lithium, acquiring the remaining stake to gain full ownership of the mining firm. This project, located in the Osterzgebirge region of Saxony, aims to begin lithium mining by 2030 to support European battery, automotive, and defense supply chains. In other regions, Highland Critical Minerals is concluding a summer exploration program at the Church Property in Northern Ontario. Additionally, European Lithium and Critical Metals are proceeding toward a merger through a court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement. In China, CATL faces operational uncertainty as the Jianxiawo lithium mine awaits environmental impact assessment approval. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-15: Global industrial shifts: Lenzing restructuring and lithium sector developments Lenzing undergoes major restructuring and a 300M euro capital increase, while lithium players Highland Critical Minerals, European Lithium, and CATL navigate exploration, mergers, and mining permits. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/global-industrial-shifts-lenzing-restructuring-and-lithium-sector-developments ### 2026-07-27: AMG Critical Materials finalises Zinnwald Lithium takeover in Germany AMG Critical Materials completed a £42 million takeover of Zinnwald Lithium, gaining full control of a German lithium project slated to start mining by 2030 and supporting EU raw‑material security. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/amg-critical-materials-finalises-zinnwald-lithium-takeover-in-germany --- Cite as: Global lithium and critical minerals sector developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-lithium-and-critical-minerals-sector-developments