Copenhagen: European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic announced that the European Union is aligning with its G7 partners to counter China's recent "unjustified" export controls on rare-earth technologies. Sefcovic emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that these measures have already led some EU companies to cease production, thereby inflicting significant economic damage.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Sefcovic addressed the issue during a news conference in Denmark after a meeting with EU ministers. He criticized the restrictions, stating, "This is not about security or non-proliferation .. these controls are targeting civilian industries directly." Sefcovic underlined the necessity for a coordinated response and mentioned ongoing communication with G7 counterparts and direct engagement with China to seek resolutions.
Sefcovic also revealed his plans to engage with senior Chinese officials in the coming week. The context of this diplomatic effort follows China's recent announcement of new export restrictions on technologies associated with rare earths, essential components for magnets used in automotive, electronics, and defense sectors. China remains the dominant global producer of these critical minerals.