The auto industries in both the US and Europe could come to a standstill within weeks thanks to China’s ongoing restrictions on exports of rare earth minerals and magnets. Several European car part manufacturers have already halted production lines according to the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA).

While China has resumed exports of its rare earth magnets, applications by domestic auto manufacturers—including by subsidiaries of multinational companies that have received approvals for their foreign arms—remain stuck.