EU to Unveil Measures to Cut Critical Minerals Dependence Amid Global Rivalry

Published: Dec 28, 2025 10:04

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Senior EU officials are expected to announce a series of measures aimed at reducing external dependence on critical minerals, in response to intense global competition for such resources.

EU and industry officials revealed that for years they have repeatedly warned that the traditional rules-based model is no longer sustainable, particularly after former US President Donald Trump's potential return to power. However, European governments have been slow to respond.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde stated last week, "Europe is becoming increasingly vulnerable, partly because we are overly reliant on third countries in terms of security and the supply of critical raw materials." She also cited other challenges, such as the US's continuous tariff hikes.

"Europe's vulnerability stems from a growth model built on a world that is gradually fading away."

Currently, trade wars have placed Europe's automotive, clean energy, and semiconductor industries at significant risk.

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