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| EU Critical Minerals |
Europe Faces Strategic Risks from China’s Rare Earth Restrictions
The EU must accelerate its critical minerals strategy to counter China’s rare earth export curbs. The European Initiative for Energy Security (EIES) warned that limited European mining and refining capacity leaves the continent vulnerable. Meanwhile, China and the US advance state-backed mineral strategies, highlighting Europe’s investment gap.
E-MIN Proposed to Secure Strategic Autonomy
To bridge financing and risk challenges, EIES proposed the European Minerals Investment Network (E-MIN). This platform connects investors, industrial buyers, and project developers. As a result, the EU could better coordinate capital deployment and unlock private-sector participation, reducing reliance on external suppliers for magnets, batteries, and wind turbines.
Immediate Action Needed to Close Investment Gap
China tightened rare earth export controls in April, adding seven elements to its license requirements. Consequently, EU manufacturers face delays and higher strategic risks. EIES urges the EU to implement dedicated funding, equity stakes in mining projects, and a strategic mineral reserve, ensuring Europe’s competitiveness and supply chain resilience.
ScrapInsight Commentary
Europe’s dependence on Chinese rare earths highlights the urgent need for regional supply chain development. Coordinated investment and strategic reserves could stabilize EU critical mineral markets. Market participants should monitor E-MIN progress and policy shifts closely.
