For a resilient, sustainable and responsible European Union supply chain of critical raw materials

Key points

The EESC:

• underlines that, in the current geo-political context, the main priority of governments and of the EU today is to secure the most essential raw materials to support greening and digitally transforming the industrial system. Respect for social and environmental standards throughout the value chains remains a fundamental objective of EU policies in all countries;
• recommends to recognise, on the basis of current international dynamics and imperative social and environmental constraints, that voluntary and non-binding measures are not enough to address such complex challenges;
• recommends to ensure binding compliance with all international rules and standards in trade agreements, starting with those on illicit trade in resources, including trade-related sanctions;
• supports production chain digitalisation. The use of digital technologies will be fundamental in improving supply chain management and production chain efficiency, and in identifying problems in a timely manner through order management platforms, product traceability and production process monitoring;
• recommends to involve the European Parliament, and not simply as an observer, in the European Critical Raw Materials Board. The board should consult EU social partners and CSOs on all proposals, ensuring inclusive decisions and a level playing field for EU countries.

For more information, please contact the INT Section Secretariat