Briefing Paper

The European Economic Community and South Africa: The minerals supply factor

“This report analyses the extent to which the issue of minerals supply impinges upon the existing relationship between South Africa and those member-states which together
make up the European Economic Community(EEC). First, the EEC’s definition of the term ‘strategic minerals’ is established.
Then, the existing minerals supply position is outlined, and the attitudes and response to it on the part of South Africa and the EEC are discussed, finally, the wider perspective of South African-EEC relations is
offered, wherein the bilateral minerals supply position is considered within a broader political and economic framework.
This briefing concludes that, while political issues are of undoubted importance, economic considerations will
continue to dominate EEC-South African relations for as long as South Africa maintains her considerable significance
as a supplier of raw materials to the Community.”