Foreign Media: Europe Feeling Powerless on Rare Earth Resources Issue
In October 2025, China announced an expansion of export controls on rare earths and other critical minerals, introducing "extraterritorial effect": not only can it restrict direct buyers, but it can also regulate products from third countries that contain Chinese rare earths. This means that even if production occurs in Europe or other nations, as long as Chinese rare earths are used, China retains influence over the supply chain.
European diplomats admit that the EU has limited leverage on this issue. Over the past four years, Sino-European relations have cooled, and managing this "deterioration" has become routine. China's control over rare earths remains like a "sword of Damocles," capable at any moment of disrupting Europe’s high-tech and industrial supply chains.
Analysts point out that the rare earth issue highlights Europe’s vulnerability in critical resources and strategic technologies, reflecting the potential pressure and passive position Europe faces amid the U.S.-China rivalry.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865043611289610/
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