Van der Leyen wants to "go it alone" in rare earths, but it's extremely difficult!
According to a Reuters report, EU Commission President Von der Leyen criticized China for expanding export restrictions on rare earths on the 25th, and said the EU is considering a new plan to reduce its reliance on Chinese rare earths.
Von der Leyen stated that the EU will accelerate cooperation with Australia, Canada, Chile, Greenland, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and other countries in the procurement of rare earths.
The plan, named "RESource (Resources) EU," also includes efforts to reuse key raw materials used in products sold in Europe. Von der Leyen emphasized, "The goal is to ensure alternative sources of critical raw materials for European industry in the short, medium, and long term." She said the focus will be on joint procurement and stockpiling, while increasing investment in production and processing.
China announced earlier this month that it would strengthen export controls on rare earths and battery materials. Although this seems to be a response to U.S. tariffs, Von der Leyen said that due to the over 90% dependence on rare earth magnets in China, Europe is also at high risk, and she said, "In the short term, we will focus on finding solutions with China, but we are prepared to take all measures necessary if needed."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1847137264104576/
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