EU Races to Build Critical Minerals Stockpile Amid China Supply Fears
European officials are scrambling to establish critical minerals stockpiles as China’s export controls threaten supplies essential for defense systems and clean energy technology. The EU plans to launch a consultation on joint purchasing before year-end, but faces significant logistical and competitive challenges in catching up with US efforts.
Europe’s Supply Chain Wake-Up Call
European leaders are sounding the alarm about what they describe as an increasingly urgent need to stockpile critical minerals, with warnings that the continent risks falling dangerously behind in securing materials essential for both national defense and the green transition. According to industry reports, the European Commission plans to launch a consultation on stockpiling before year-end, focusing on funding mechanisms and which minerals should be prioritized for acquisition.