Tungsten Supply and China’s Export Controls

Tungsten is critical for both advanced manufacturing and defence, yet global supply chains are heavily concentrated in China, which accounts for 79% of mining and around 86% of processing. Recent Chinese export controls have exposed Europe’s vulnerability, contributing to sharply higher European prices and growing competition for limited non-Chinese supply. 

This report examines the risks facing Europe’s tungsten supply chain and argues that the key challenge is not simply opening new mines, but developing viable non-Chinese processing capacity. It proposes measures including stronger demand for recycled tungsten, improved scrap retention, long-term procurement commitments, price-support mechanisms and a coordinated European tungsten stockpile.