The infographic highlights Europe's significant reliance on China for critical materials in 2024. Notably, Europe sources 100% of its heavy rare earth elements from China, essential for nuclear reactors and fiber optics. Magnesium, crucial for aerospace and automotive industries, is 97% dependent on Chinese supply. Light rare earth elements, used in catalysts and magnets, have an 85% dependency. Lithium, vital for batteries and pharmaceuticals, is 79% sourced from China. Gallium, important for semiconductors and solar panels, shows a 71% dependency. Scandium, used in aerospace and sports equipment, is 67% reliant on China. Bismuth, with applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, has a 65% dependency. Vanadium, essential for steel alloys and tools, is 62% dependent. Baryte, used in oil drilling and paints, and Germanium, crucial for optics and electronics, both have a 45% dependency. Natural graphite, important for batteries and lubricants, is 40% sourced from China. Tungsten, used in cutting tools and electronics, shows a 32% dependency. This data underscores the strategic importance of these materials and the potential vulnerabilities in Europe's supply chain, highlighting the need for diversification and sustainable sourcing strategies.
