非常严重！欧盟驻华大使承认稀土影响，请求能中方理解并解决问题

Core Viewpoint - The European Union (EU) is facing a severe shortage of rare earth magnets, which are critical for high-tech industries and automotive manufacturing, leading to significant disruptions in supply chains and increased costs for European companies [1][3][5]. Group 1: Impact of Rare Earth Shortage - The EU's ambassador to China, Toledo, emphasized the urgent need for rare earth materials, indicating that the shortage has caused considerable distress among European businesses [1][3]. - Recent reports indicate a significant decline in China's rare earth exports to Europe, which has resulted in production delays and rising costs in sectors such as automotive and wind energy [5][9]. - Toledo expressed fears regarding the clarity of trade relations between China and the EU, hinting that upcoming high-level visits to China could be affected if the rare earth issue remains unresolved [5][9]. Group 2: Trade Relations and Historical Context - The EU's current predicament is partly a consequence of trade tensions between China and the US, which led to China's implementation of export licensing for rare earths as a countermeasure to US tariffs [7][9]. - The Chinese government has stated that its export controls are non-discriminatory and legally justified, contrasting with the EU's portrayal of the situation as a threat to global supply chains [9][19]. - Since 2017, China's economy has grown by 40%, while EU exports to China have decreased by 30%, highlighting underlying issues in EU-China trade relations [13][19]. Group 3: EU's Trade Policies and Perceptions - The EU has imposed high tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles under the guise of ensuring fair competition, without considering the potential impact on EU-China relations [11][15]. - The EU's recent restrictions on Chinese companies in various sectors, including medical devices, have been criticized as protectionist measures that undermine fair competition [15][19]. - The narrative of "China weaponizing rare earths" has emerged in Western media, suggesting a strategic attempt to pressure China into concessions regarding rare earth exports [17][19]. Group 4: China's Strategic Management of Rare Earths - China's approach to rare earth management has evolved from simple resource exportation to comprehensive control over the entire supply chain, reflecting its strategic importance [21][23]. - Despite the restrictions, China continues to process compliant export applications, indicating that it has not completely closed off its rare earth supply to Europe [23][25]. - For the EU to secure a stable supply of rare earths, it must demonstrate reciprocal goodwill by lifting unreasonable tariffs and restrictions on Chinese products [26].