The World Today

The World Today
Critical Minerals

  NIAS TWT Team
6 June 2026

The EU: European Commission weighs mandatory supply chain diversification for critical sectors
On 05 June, Reuters reported that the European Commission is considering legislation requiring companies to diversify their supply chains. It is to ensure dependence on a single supplier, particularly suppliers in China. Under the proposal, firms may be encouraged or required to maintain a minimum of three sources for critical supplies. This enables protection against disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions, export controls, and supply shortages. This initiative is formed as part of the EU’s broader review of its defence policies. Moreover, the European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic argued that reliance on a single supplier has become a strategic vulnerability, especially in sectors such as critical minerals and advanced manufacturing. Any future measures would likely be introduced gradually and in consultation with industry.

(“EU weighs rules to cut reliance on China through broader supply chains,” Reuters, 05 June 2026)

The US: Oklahoma lawsuit challenges major Washingtons Aluminum smelter project
On 05 June, Reuters reported that, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond filed a lawsuit seeking to block a proposed USD 4 billion aluminum smelter project. This project is backed by Emirates Global Aluminium and Century Aluminum. If completed, the facility would produce up to 750,000 metric tons of aluminum annually. It plays a significant role in reducing US’s dependence on imports. The lawsuit argues that emissions from the smelter could harm residents, livestock, and the environment. Furthermore, the Attorney General also criticized the project's ownership structure, noting that EGA. This controls 60 per cent of the venture, which is owned by sovereign wealth funds linked to the government of the UAE. Furthermore, he argued that local communities would bear the environmental costs while foreign investors would reap the benefits.
(“Oklahoma's attorney general sues to block aluminum smelter after Trump endorses rival,” Reuters, 05 June 2026)


 

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