Berlin: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU is accelerating efforts to secure its supply of critical raw materials, particularly rare-earth elements vital for manufacturing cars, semiconductors, and defence equipment. Speaking in Berlin, she said China’s recently imposed export restrictions pose a significant threat to the stability of global supply chains.

“We are focusing on finding solutions with our Chinese counterparts in the short term, but we are prepared to use all available tools to respond if necessary,” von der Leyen stated.

Drawing parallels to Europe’s efforts to replace Russian energy supplies, she stressed the need for long-term structural solutions, including recycling to recover valuable raw materials and reduce external dependency.

Von der Leyen added that the EU is boosting investments in strategic projects for the production and processing of essential raw materials within Europe. The bloc is also fast-tracking partnerships with resource-rich nations such as Ukraine, Australia, Canada, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Chile.

Highlighting the shifting global landscape, she urged that Europe must now act decisively. “Whether it is energy, raw materials, defense, or the digital sphere, Europe must strive for its independence, and now is the time to do so,” she emphasized.