072
Extraction of uranium and thorium ores
This macroeconomic category refers to activities of extracting uranium and thorium ores from natural deposits, including processes of concentration and obtaining primary forms subsequently used in the nuclear industry. It is a strategic, highly specialized niche, strictly regulated by national and international authorities.
Entrepreneur Profile
This CAEN code 072 is intended for entrepreneurs and companies (SRL, PFA) wishing to develop a business focused on extraction of uranium and thorium ores. It is ideal for founders aiming to offer specialized services or products in this economic niche within the Romanian market.
Who should avoid:
Avoid the exclusive use of code 072 if the main activity of your company shifts towards other commercial or related branches not specified in the official description. See the excluded activities section below.
Industry of uranium and thorium ore extraction, coded CAEN 072, represents one of the most specialized and regulated branches of the Romanian mining sector.
Although globally this activity is concentrated in a few countries with significant reserves, Romania had an important tradition in uranium exploitation, especially through the subsidiary CNU (National Uranium Company). From a macroeconomic perspective, uranium is a strategic energy resource used in nuclear power plants for electricity production, while thorium, though less exploited, is considered a potential fuel of the future.
The evolution of this niche has been strongly influenced by the geopolitical context and regulations on nuclear non-proliferation. After 1990, exploitation decreased significantly, but the interest in clean nuclear energy brings back into discussion the need to develop extraction capacities.
Entrepreneurs operating in this field face major challenges, such as the strict bureaucracy imposed by the Nuclear Agency and the Autonomous Authority for Nuclear Activities, high exploration and compliance costs with security standards, as well as social acceptance of nuclear mining projects. Nevertheless, for investors with capital and expertise, CAEN 072 offers long-term opportunities, considering that Romania holds uranium reserves in areas such as Bihor and Suceava, and the demand for fuel for nuclear power plants is increasing.
In conclusion, this macroeconomic division is a niche one, but with a major strategic impact on national energy security and the transition towards low-carbon energy.
Included Activities
- ✅ extraction of uranium ores
- ✅ concentration of uranium ores
- ✅ extraction of thorium ores
- ✅ concentration of thorium ores
- ✅ production of uranium oxide (yellowcake)
Excluded Activities
- ❌ enrichment of uranium and thorium
- ❌ manufacture of nuclear fuels
- ❌ processing of radioactive waste
- ❌ mining of coal
Similar or Related CAEN Codes:
From the same category of economic activities:
Întrebări Frecvente
What type of companies can use CAEN code 072?
Any legal entity in Romania (SRL, PFA, Individual Enterprise) performing activities related to "extraction of uranium and thorium ores" is required to have this code authorized in its articles of incorporation or at the Trade Register.
Are special permits required for CAEN 072?
The need for permits depends on the exact nature of the operations carried out under class 072. Some activities require authorizations from DSV, Environment, or Occupational Safety, while others can be conducted solely based on the self-declaration at incorporation.