TMTPOST -- China’s Ministry of Commerce has recently stepped up communication with Chinese and European semiconductor firms on rare earth export control policies, a move that may indicate a potential easing of restrictions targeting EU chip supply chains, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. At a closed-door roundtable held in recent days with upstream and downstream semiconductor companies from both China and Europe, ministry officials reportedly offered a detailed briefing on the country’s rare earth export control framework. The discussions aimed to enhance transparency and coordination between China and European industry players, in a bid to safeguard the stability of global supply chains. One source noted that the strengthened policy communication could signal a softening of rare earth export controls for the semiconductor sector, particularly for European firms. “This is likely a proactive step to support global industrial stability and address concerns from key trade partners,” the person said. Rare earth elements—critical for chip manufacturing, electric vehicles, and other advanced technologies—have become a focal point in the evolving geopolitical landscape of tech supply chains. China remains the world’s dominant supplier of rare earths, and any shift in its export policies is closely watched by global markets and policymakers. The potential policy recalibration comes amid ongoing efforts between China and the EU to stabilize economic ties and avoid further fragmentation of high-tech supply chains.