EU Accelerates Strategy to Reduce Dependence on Chinese Rare Earths

The European Union, led by Ursula von der Leyen, is intensifying efforts to reduce reliance on Chinas rare-earth elements amid rising export restrictions from Beijing.

• Ursula von der Leyen announced the European Unions new strategy to decrease dependence on China for critical raw materials essential for clean energy and defense production.
• The European Union has struggled for years to secure alternative sources for rare-earth elements, which are vital for electric vehicle manufacturing and other green technologies.
• In response to Beijings expanded restrictions on rare-earth element exports, Berlin is considering collaborative efforts with other nations to establish a more resilient supply chain.