EU Economic Security Measures: New Actions to Safeguard Raw Materials

EU Economic Security Measures Begin Reshaping Raw Materials Policy

The European Commission introduced new EU Economic Security Measures to boost industrial resilience and cut geopolitical risks. The plan expands the 2023 Economic Security Strategy and sets clear actions to secure critical raw materials for automotive, defense, AI chips, and data centers. However, recycling groups warn that several measures could distort global markets.

The Commission highlighted the ResourceEU Action Plan as the core of this new approach. The plan speeds up supply-chain diversification, builds a coordinated EU stockpiling system, and directs €3 billion into strategic raw-materials projects within 12 months. Europe also plans to deepen partnerships with resource-rich countries to reduce dependencies and lower vulnerabilities by up to 50 percent by 2029.

Tension is rising as the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) warns that export limits could disrupt circular trade. The group argues that new rules on permanent magnets, aluminum scrap, and copper scrap could harm recyclers that supply essential secondary raw materials.

How EU Economic Security Measures Affect Recycling and Global Trade

The Action Plan introduces new initiatives that reshape the recycling sector. The EU will restrict exports of strategic scrap, tighten rules for permanent magnets, and expand CRM-focused waste-shipment facilitation. These steps support Europe’s industrial goals but could reduce global market access for many recyclers.

The Commission will also create a European Critical Raw Materials Center and start a bloc-wide stockpiling system by 2026. It plans new monitoring programs to protect startups from hostile foreign takeovers in key technologies. These tools strengthen economic intelligence and support Europe’s control over strategic sectors, including semiconductors and quantum technologies.

BIR warns that restrictive trade steps must rely on transparent and proportional data. The group stresses that rushed actions could distort prices, damage competitiveness, and weaken global circular-economy benefits. It urges policymakers to adopt evidence-based frameworks that support recycling without blocking international material flows.

Industry Outlook Under EU Economic Security Measures

Industry groups expect the new measures to reshape investment choices across Europe. Faster permitting, joint purchasing, and new funding may accelerate mining, refining, and recycling projects. However, recyclers fear that export limits and new labeling rules could strain smaller firms and raise compliance costs.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The EU’s push for strategic autonomy strengthens supply security but demands careful balance. Tough export limits could tighten global scrap supply and raise volatility. Europe will benefit most from policies that support open markets, strong recycling systems, and transparent data. The next two years will show whether the EU builds a stronger ecosystem or adds new barriers to the raw-materials market.