EU's Strategic Mineral Stockpiling Drive: A Continental Approach to Reduce Dependence on China

The European Union is ramping up efforts to stockpile essential raw materials, as part of the newly introduced RESourceEU plan, targeting reduced dependency on China. Key participants, Italy, France, and Germany, are set to lead the initiative with distinct roles in storage, financing, and sourcing of materials.

China’s dominance in the production of industrial metals and recent export controls have disrupted global supply chains, leaving Europe vulnerable due to inadequate refining capabilities. Strategic reserves of materials are deemed vital for safeguarding the economy, defense production, and energy transition goals.

The EU’s move involves coordination among member states, with defined responsibilities. France is focusing on financial logistics, Germany on sourcing, and Italy on storage. This initiative aligns with earlier efforts by Italy and Germany to secure raw material supply chains critical to industrial needs, while working collectively with other EU states.