Europe Decreases Reliance on China for Gunpowder Ingredient

European nations are investing in facilities to produce nitrocellulose, also known as gun cotton, to reduce dependence on Chinese imports for ammunition production. Several NATO member countries, including Germany, France, Norway, and Finland, are increasing production of this key ingredient used in propellant for artillery shells.

Germany’s Rheinmetall is converting civilian nitrocellulose production facilities for military use, while France’s Nextera is piloting a program in Sweden to create nitrocellulose from recycled textile waste. Europe has historically relied on China for approximately 30.1% of its gun cotton supply as of last year, while European production accounted for only 20.9%.

The industry estimates that current production capacity needs to more than double, reaching 20,000 tons annually, to meet increased demand. The Wall Street Journal reports that the speed of Europe’s ammunition production increase will depend more on securing a stable supply of nitrocellulose than on expanding shell assembly plants. The shift comes as European countries increase military spending and rearm.