EU pitches Brazil a 'more beneficial' rare earths deal than US or China
The European Union is offering Brazil a 'more beneficial' partnership on critical minerals than the United States or China, its international partnerships commissioner said. Jozef Sikela promised investment in domestic refining and technology as Brussels works to cut its dependence on Chinese supply chains. He made the case during a visit to Brazil.
The European Union has pitched Brazil a partnership on critical minerals that it says would be "more beneficial" than deals with the United States or China. The EU's commissioner for international partnerships, Jozef Sikela, made the case during a week-long visit to Brazil that included a stop at a rare earth research facility.
Sikela said Brussels is committing to invest in domestic refining capacity and technology. The EU is trying to reduce its reliance on Chinese supply chains for rare earth elements, which are used in everything from electric vehicles to wind turbines.
Rare earths have become central to global competition, with major economies seeking deals with resource-rich countries to secure supply. Brazil's significant reserves make it an attractive partner in that race. Whether the talks translate into concrete investment will be watched in the months ahead.
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