Jun. 16, 2026 - Last week, more than 50 representatives of the European refractory industry came together in Helsinki for the 2026 PRE Congress, kindly hosted by Betker Oy, Calderys Finland Oy, and Höganäs Borgestad.
 

Over three days, participants exchanged views on strengthening Europe's industrial competitiveness, advancing sustainability, building resilience, and ensuring that critical industries continue to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

 
As PRE President Matthias S. noted during the Congress: "Ecological sustainability asks: can the planet survive refractory industry? Economic sustainability asks: can refractory industry survive at all? You cannot answer the first if you ignore the second."

 
Mika Aaltola, Member of the European Parliament, shared his perspectives on Europe's evolving geopolitical environment and its implications for industry and competitiveness, and Harri Leppänen, CEO of Finnish Steel & Metal Producers, spoke about the future of steel and metal production in the Nordics.
 
A dedicated communications workshop, featuring a video message by Esther Salguero Gómez, Communications Officer at UNIDO, sparked valuable discussions on how refractory sector can better communicate its contribution to policymakers, stakeholders, and future talent. A recurring theme throughout the Congress was the importance of raising awareness of the refractory industry's role in supporting #Europe's industrial ecosystem and green transition.
 

A sincere thank you to the hosts, speakers, and, of course, all participants for the open and meaningful exchange that made this year's Congress such a success. The organizer looks forward to continuing the conversation throughout the year and meeting again in Poland in 2027.