The EU announced the RESourceEU plan to reduce dependence on China.

AB's New Step: RESourceEU

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Saturday, October 9, that the European Union (EU) has developed a new plan called RESourceEU to reduce its dependence on China for critical raw materials. She stated that this plan is a criticism of the Beijing administration due to the expanded restrictions on the export of rare earth elements.

Strategic Partnerships and Future Goals

Europe has long been working to reduce its dependence on China in order to secure access to vital minerals for the clean energy transition and electric vehicle production. Von der Leyen emphasized that they will accelerate critical raw material partnerships with countries such as Australia, Canada, Chile, Greenland, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine.

Recycling and Investments

Von der Leyen stated that the plan would include more steps towards the recycling of these raw materials used in products sold in Europe, saying, “The aim is to ensure that the European industry has access to critical raw materials from alternative sources.”

Parallel to the REPowerEU Plan

The RESourceEU plan is said to resemble the REPowerEU plan implemented by the EU after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 to reduce energy dependence.

Joint Strategies and Investments

Von der Leyen added, “We will focus on joint procurement and stockpiling in every area. We will increase investments in strategic projects for the production and processing of critical raw materials in Europe.”

China's Export Restrictions

On October 9, China imposed export restrictions on rare earth elements and certain materials used in battery production. This move is assessed by Western governments as a response to U.S. trade tariffs.

Risks and Solution Search

Von der Leyen noted that these restrictions affect strategic sectors such as automotive, defense, aerospace, and artificial intelligence. “We import 90% of the consumption of rare earth magnets from China, which poses a significant risk for Europe,” she said. She emphasized that they are focused on finding short-term solutions and are ready to use all tools available for intervention if necessary.