France Plans to Restore Control Over Rare Earths, Magnet Production

(MENAFN) France is moving to strengthen its control over the rare earths and permanent magnets sector through a newly introduced national resilience strategy, according to official statements released Wednesday.

The initiative was unveiled following presentations by Economy Minister Roland Lescure and Industry Minister Delegate Sebastien Martin, who outlined plans aimed at rebuilding domestic capabilities in the strategic industry.

“This plan marks a decisive step in reclaiming a strategic industrial sector,” the statement said.

Officials stressed that the ongoing energy crisis and rising instability in the Middle East highlight the need for France to accelerate its transition toward a low-carbon economy while protecting national independence and “avoiding substituting one dependency for another.”

According to the statement, the global supply chain remains heavily concentrated, with over 85% of rare earth separation operations controlled by a single nation. Authorities warned that this creates serious vulnerabilities for Europe, including geopolitical pressure, export limitations, and possible supply interruptions.

The statement further noted that European demand for permanent magnets may climb to 45,000 tons by 2030, fueled by growth in electric mobility and renewable energy industries.

“Faced with this strategic risk, France refuses dependence and chooses to act,” it added.

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