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Western rare earth firms say they need more government support to compete with Chinese rivals.
Viridis Mining CEO Rafael Moreno says regulatory and financial backing is key.
Securing raw materials is central to recent EU trade deals like the one with Argentina Brazil Paraguay Uruguay last year.
China's Wang Yi said controlling exports of dual-use goods is China's sovereign right and common practice.
European Parliament says Beijing's controls are unjustified and coercive.
European Parliament wants European Commission to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earths.
Rare earth metals are sent to manufacturers as sacks of powder after purification.
China tries to restrict rare earth exports impacting US China trade talks.
Mr Gallezot says economic cooperation is more powerful than pure competition.
Dependency on a single source is dangerous according to Benjamin Gallezot
The French government is supporting the facility with about €20m in tax credits
The 40-hectare site employs more than 300 people
Significant chemicals are stored in tanks giving the facility a distinct smell
The room is about the size of a football pitch with rows of metal vats separating rare earths
Liquid separation unit purifies cerium and lanthanum
Special access granted to separation room vital to know-how since 1948
Restricted access is due to rivals gaining knowledge concentrated in China
Process requires 1500 processes outsiders are rarely allowed in
Turning materials into powders is a complex process
Kehren thinks own mines are necessary for sourcing