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G7 Trade Ministers Discuss Critical Mineral Supply Chains

  • 07 May 2026

On 6th May 2026, Trade Ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) met in Paris to discuss critical mineral supply security and global trade issues.

Key Points

  • Primary Focus:
    • Securing critical mineral and rare earth supply chains.
    • Reducing excessive dependence on China.
  • French Position:
    • France pushing critical minerals as key G7 deliverable.
    • Focus on resilient and diversified supply chains.
  • China Factor:
    • China dominates global rare earth and critical mineral supply.
    • Concerns over strategic dependence and industrial vulnerability.
  • Areas of Discussion:
    • Industrial overcapacity issues.
    • Reform of World Trade Organization.
    • Coordination on trade and strategic industries.
  • Trade Tensions:
    • Proposed US tariff hike on EU-made cars from 15% to 25%.
    • Threatened strain on G7 unity.
  • Economic Context:
    • Germany’s auto sector facing pressure from slowing global demand and rising costs.
    • EU-US trade tensions resurfacing over Turnberry agreement compliance.
  • Strategic Importance:
    • Critical minerals essential for EVs, semiconductors, and green technologies.
    • Increasing geopolitical competition over resource security.