The European Union has welcomed China’s decision to suspend export controls on rare earth materials, a move critical for high-tech industries, green technologies, and defense applications. Rare earth elements are essential for everything from electric vehicle magnets to advanced military systems, making their stable supply a strategic priority for Europe.
An EU Trade Commissioner met with Chinese Commerce Minister in Brussels to discuss Beijing’s rare earth export measures issued earlier, as well as European regulations on semiconductor sales. The talks reflect the EU’s broader concern over trade imbalances, with Europe running a significant trade deficit with China, similar to the United States.
A spokesperson for the European Commission confirmed that the EU welcomed China’s 12-month suspension of rare earth export restrictions. He emphasized the need for a transparent and stable framework for trading these critical materials. “This is an appropriate and responsible step to ensure global trade flows remain secure in a strategically important sector,” he said.
The EU is now collaborating with China to develop a reliable export licensing system that will safeguard the steady flow of rare earth minerals into the bloc, helping European industries maintain production of magnets, electronics, and renewable energy components.
The Commissioner highlighted that discussions are ongoing to refine trade measures further. “Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement on improving the implementation of export control policies,” he noted.
China remains the EU’s second-largest trading partner, after the United States, with daily bilateral trade estimated at €2.3 billion. Both parties recognize the importance of stable trade ties for global economic health and share mutual goals in advancing climate-friendly technologies.
This agreement marks a positive step toward securing critical raw materials for Europe, reducing supply chain risks, and supporting the continent’s strategic industries in an era of increasing technological competition.
