The EU plans to limit exports of certain waste materials, particularly permanent magnets, to boost recycling and reduce dependence on China, which controls over 90% of critical mineral processing. This initiative aims to meet growing demand for magnets essential for electric vehicles and clean technologies. The EU also intends to allocate €3bn for critical minerals projects and enhance scrutiny of foreign investments in key tech sectors. Despite these efforts, experts predict only a modest reduction in China’s supply chain dominance over the next decade.
