Finnish explosives manufacturer Forcit has unveiled plans to construct a €200 million TNT production facility in Pori, a move aimed at strengthening European ammunition production amid ongoing security concerns. The new plant, scheduled to begin operations in 2028, will be one of the largest TNT manufacturing sites in Europe.
The decision follows a Finnish Ministry of Defense initiative launched last year to assess options for securing TNT supplies, either through imports or domestic production. Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen emphasized that the project is a response to Europe's explosives shortage, which has hindered ammunition production across the continent.
“With this new TNT factory, we are addressing the critical shortage of explosives in Europe and ensuring long-term support for Ukraine,” said Häkkänen, who noted that the project has received backing from several European ministers and NATO representatives.
Forcit CEO Joakim Westerlund stated that the new facility will play a key role in European defense supply chains, with a majority of production expected to be exported. He also highlighted the economic impact of the investment, estimating that the factory will create 70 direct jobs and an additional 70 through subcontractors and service providers.
To secure domestic supply, the Finnish Defence Forces have signed a ten-year letter of intent with Forcit for TNT procurement, valued at €255 million. This agreement ensures Finland’s ammunition needs from 2028 to 2037.
Currently, the only TNT manufacturing plant in the European Union is located in Poland, making the new Pori facility a strategic asset for Europe’s defense industry.
While Minister Häkkänen did not disclose full details of the factory’s financing, he confirmed strong support from the business community and international partners. The state-owned investment firm Finnish Industry Investment is in negotiations to participate in funding the project.
Founded in 1893, Forcit is one of Finland’s oldest industrial companies. In 2023, the company reported €110 million in revenue and an operating profit of €14 million.
