BLUF
The EU expects significant investment in Australian critical minerals when a free trade agreement is ratified removing tariffs. Driven by efforts to reduce reliance on China, the EU plans major funding for minerals, processing, and defence.Learning Outcomes
- Explain the strategic reasons behind increased EU investment in Australia’s critical minerals sector, including efforts to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on China.
- Describe how the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement supports critical minerals trade and investment, including tariff reductions and opportunities for collaboration in refining, processing, and supply chains.
- Assess the importance of critical minerals to economic security, defence, and technological innovation, including their role in EU defence initiatives, research programs, and emerging dual-use technologies.
