Ventures by Japan, South Korea and Taiwan illustrate how the race for REE security is accelerating, powered by both geopolitical tension and industrial strategy.
The minerals that Pakistan purports to offer to the US are either in quantities too small to matter, of a type that the US does not need, or would be much more easily sourced from other partners.
Co-development of rare earths topped Takaichi’s talks with Trump last week. During his Tokyo visit, both nations signed a framework to secure supplies and counter China’s dominance.
China built its mineral empire with foresight. The US is reacting with tariffs. And emerging powers like India are stepping in with strategic steps toward autonomy.
ThePrint Explorer looks at the significance of rare earths, how China rose to dominate the industry, and the US's efforts to claim control over these critical elements.
Barring a few, India 100% dependent on imports for most of the listed minerals, which find use in high-tech electronics, telecommunications, transport and defence.
As Visakhapatnam readies a mega airport, the Andhra Pradesh government has revived its shelved Dagadarthi project, aiming to boost cargo and connectivity on the south coast.
Both the Russian and Ukrainian militaries are leaning on drones, but they’re also firing cruise and ballistic missiles, some of them relatively new and experimental.
UK, EFTA already in the bag and EU on the way, many members of RCEP except China signed up, and even restrictions on China being lifted, India has changed its mind on trade.
None of the countries you listed have a independent REE supply chain. Japan tried but China quickly rescinded its ban and dumped REEs causing prices to fall and lower incentives for domestic investment and development of REEs. Even processing requires chemicals that are only produced in China.
None of the countries you listed have a independent REE supply chain. Japan tried but China quickly rescinded its ban and dumped REEs causing prices to fall and lower incentives for domestic investment and development of REEs. Even processing requires chemicals that are only produced in China.