China’s broad limitations on rare earths have rekindled a high-stakes trade conflict that Brussels had planned to resolve at a meeting in July, and European Union nations are considering how to react.
Even if there isn’t a specific item on the agenda, the matter is expected to be discussed during a leaders’ meeting on Thursday. “Leaders are aware of the importance of this topic,” a senior EU official stated.
According to multiple officials who spoke to Euronews, France brought up the topic of rare earths during the summit’s preparations and recommended adding language to the conclusions. The French idea, which did not receive widespread support, was backed by Poland.
According to one EU official, Germany wants to bring up rare earths during the conference. Germany, the bloc’s biggest economy, may influence the negotiations and encourage other capitals to do the same.
However, because German corporations have strong ties to China, Berlin has been accused of playing a double game in the Asian country. Germany attempted to stop anti-subsidy levies on Chinese electric vehicles last year. Germany’s actions contradict its rhetoric, according to a diplomat. The new, stringent export restrictions Beijing enacted earlier this month are putting pressure on EU leaders from their industry.
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