China’s latest rare earth export curbs could severely disrupt Europe’s defense and economic sectors, experts warn, with calls mounting for concrete EU-U.S. cooperation to counter Beijing’s control over these critical minerals.
EU industry chief Stephane Sejourne met with affected European businesses on Oct. 20 to discuss Beijing’s rare earth restrictions, according to AFP. The virtual meeting included executives from automotive, defense, wind energy, chemicals and mining sectors.
Beijing tightened its export controls on rare earth minerals on Oct. 9, mandating licenses for products exceeding a 0.1 percent content threshold.
The new rules apply to foreign firms using Chinese-sourced raw materials or Chinese technology for extraction, refining, magnet-making, or recycling, with most restrictions taking effect Dec. 1….
China’s Rare Earth Curbs Threaten Europe’s Defense, Economy: Experts
