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EU's Dombrovskis says countermeasures possible in response to China rare earth curbs

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on October 22, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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EU's Dombrovskis says countermeasures possible in response to China rare earth curbs
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BERLIN (Reuters) -The EU's top economic official said the European Commission was considering countermeasures in response to Chinese curbs on rare earth exports, according to an interview with

EU Considers Countermeasures Against China's Rare Earth Export Limits

BERLIN (Reuters) -The EU's top economic official said the European Commission was considering countermeasures in response to Chinese curbs on rare earth exports, according to an interview with Handelsblatt published on Wednesday.

"We are examining possible countermeasures if conditions do not improve. We have not yet named any specific instruments, but the discussion is ongoing," EU economy commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis told the German newspaper.

"We are also coordinating this with international partners - for example at the G7 finance ministers' meeting in Washington, where I have just been," he added.

Despite an agreement in July aimed at fast-tracking shipments to Europe, China has maintained tight control over rare earth exports and earlier this month announced expanded curbs.

The EU's trade chief Maros Sefcovic said on Tuesday he was due to meet Chinese authorities in the coming days to find "urgent" rare earth exports solutions.

(Reporting by Rachel More; Editing by Alex Richardson)

Key Takeaways

  • EU is considering countermeasures against China's rare earth export limits.
  • Valdis Dombrovskis mentioned ongoing discussions without specific instruments named.
  • Coordination with international partners like G7 is in progress.
  • China maintains tight control over rare earth exports despite July agreement.
  • EU's Maros Sefcovic seeks urgent solutions with Chinese authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are rare earth exports?
Rare earth exports refer to the trade of a group of 17 chemical elements used in various high-tech applications, including electronics, renewable energy technologies, and military equipment.
What is the European Commission?
The European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and managing the day-to-day operations of the EU.
What are countermeasures in trade?
Countermeasures in trade are actions taken by a country in response to unfair trade practices or policies from another country, often involving tariffs or trade restrictions.

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