The BRICS TimesEU Vice President Stéphane Séjourné stressed the need to double efforts to reduce dependence on China. He stated that European nations have become victims of the ongoing US-China trade tensions.
The world’s supply of rare earth minerals is heavily controlled by China. Consequently, Beijing frequently uses this leverage to threaten supply to the European Union and the United States. In a strong statement on Tuesday (November 25, 2025), the European Union declared that China’s restrictions amount to a “racket,” posing a clear threat to Europe. Addressing parliamentarians, EU Vice President Stéphane Séjourné urged European countries to immediately accelerate efforts. They must reduce their deep reliance on China for these critical minerals.
‘Must Accelerate Efforts to Reduce China Dependence’
Stéphane Séjourné told the parliament, “It is now time for Europe to speed up its strategy.” He emphasized, “We will need to double our efforts to reduce our dependency on China.” He called on EU nations to strive for diversification within their supply chains. China contributes to approximately 70% of global rare earth mining. This makes its role in the global supply chain extremely significant. Séjourné pointed out that very few licenses are being issued, leading to significant delays in delivery.
China Running a Racket: European Union
“This process often requires companies to share sensitive information,” Séjourné noted. He further explained, “These licenses are granted in exchange for information that frequently involves trade secrets. If we look at all the demands placed on our manufacturers to obtain licenses, these requirements look like a racket.” Séjourné is planning a strategy to end the 27-nation EU group’s reliance on China. He is set to reveal these detailed plans on December 3.
‘EU Victim of US-China Trade Tension’
Séjourné asserted that the European Union has become a victim of the US-China trade tension. He also stated that the bloc is now a direct target of Beijing’s policies. Amid global uncertainties, the EU is focusing on building a comprehensive global agenda with India. Both sides may finalize a Free Trade Agreement, a Defense Framework Agreement, and a strategic agenda. This will happen at their annual summit on January 27. The European Union is India’s largest trading partner. The bilateral goods trade between both parties reached $135 billion USD in the financial year 2023-24.
