Europe Lags Behind U.S. and China in Critical Mineral Race Amid Rising Trade Tensions

Europe finds itself at a strategic disadvantage in the global scramble for critical minerals, as the U.S. ramps up spending and China tightens export controls. The European Commission plans to establish a "critical raw materials centre" in 2024, but the bloc remains heavily dependent on Chinese supplies—80–90% of its graphite, cobalt, and gallium imports originate there. These minerals are vital for defense systems and renewable energy infrastructure.

While Washington commits $1 billion to stockpiling military and clean-energy resources, Beijing is restricting rare earth exports, warning foreign firms against hoarding. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič raised concerns in talks with China's commerce minister, but Brussels has yet to match its trade threats with concrete action. "A supply crisis is no longer a distant risk," warned Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, underscoring Europe's vulnerable position as U.S.-China trade frictions intensify.