EU internal documents show the bloc is pursuing increased critical-mineral
sourcing from Vietnam to reduce exposure to potential supply-chain shocks.
Vietnam holds deposits of tungsten, rare earths, antimony, bismuth and bauxite
that can yield gallium as a by‑product. Current Vietnamese exports to the EU are
Concentrated in tungsten and antimony, both used in defense manufacturing,
including ammunition and explosives. A document urges EU institutions to prepare
concrete cooperation deliverables for a visit by Vietnamese leader Su Lin; four
European and Vietnamese officials said Su Lin is expected in Brussels next week
with a planned meeting with EU leaders on Oct. 22, though the trip has not been
formally announced.
