欧盟-美国重要矿产协议：共同打造更强大的供应链-英-10页_419kb

EU and US leaders announced in March 2023 their intention to conclude a critical minerals agreement to strengthen supply chains for electric vehicle batteries. Driven by the global shift to clean transport and climate goals, this agreement aims to allow critical minerals extracted or processed in the EU to qualify for tax credits under the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), thereby boosting mutual mineral production and ensuring sustainable, resilient supply chains.

The EU seeks to diversify imports, reduce dependencies, promote circular economy, and include recycling. Negotiations began in July 2023, with key points including compliance with WTO rules, labor protections, environmental standards, and investment cooperation. However, disputes arose, such as the requirement for investment notifications and differing interpretations of national security exceptions.

The agreement has drawn support for supply chain resilience but criticism from some US lawmakers and experts regarding policy risks and limited scope. It requires approval from the EU Council and the European Parliament, and the US seeks it to be equivalent to a free trade agreement, though Congress did not vote on it.

Key minerals covered under the IRA include 50 materials listed in the act, while negotiations focused on cobalt, graphite, lithium, magnesium, and nickel initially. The agreement emphasizes trade fairness, sustainability, and multilateral collaboration, with potential impacts on global markets and environmental policies.