Von der Leyen warned about China and Europe didn't listen — will it now?
Despite three years of warnings from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU dependence on China for critical minerals, grid technology and green-tech components has only grown. A Euronews analysis reports Brussels is now preparing a formal de-risking package for autumn 2026.
A Euronews analysis from Brussels argues that despite repeated warnings from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen since 2023, the EU still sources over 70% of its critical minerals, smart-grid components and solar-panel parts from China. The piece attributes slow policy progress to individual member states defending their own industrial interests.
According to commission sources, Brussels is preparing a comprehensive de-risking package for autumn 2026. Measures under discussion include stockpiling of nickel, lithium and rare earths, origin-based criteria in public procurement that affect Chinese wind turbines, and state support for European cable makers. Industry groups have warned of cost pressures.
Beijing has called the EU's recent policies "protectionist" and analysts say the People's Bank of China could slow Eurozone bond purchases as a signal. In the coming weeks, the commission's Critical Raw Materials Act implementation list, the European Council's industrial strategy debate and any Beijing counter-package will be the items to watch.
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