EU firms still struggle to get Chinese rare earths despite July deal, due to strict export rules.

European companies continue to face hurdles in obtaining rare earth minerals from China, despite a July agreement to streamline exports, according to the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China. China's dominant role in rare earth extraction and refining gives it significant leverage, and strict export controls—including licensing requirements and military-use checks—have disrupted supply chains, particularly for SMEs. These measures have led to financial losses for some firms and raised concerns about future shortages, prompting calls for EU action as China prepares its next five-year plan.