EU Business Lobby Head Says China Rare Earths Snag Persists

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said in July that leaders had agreed to an improved mechanism for Chinese exports of rare earth minerals to the bloc (Credit: AFP)

European firms still face challenges in securing access to crucial rare earths from China, a business lobby warned Wednesday, despite a July deal to speed up exports.

China dominates the global industry for extracting and refining the strategic minerals, giving it vital leverage in a renewed trade war this year with Washington.