This bar chart illustrates the estimated global share of Rare Earth Element (REE) mining production in 2025, highlighting China's continued dominance and the efforts of other nations to diversify supply.
This bar chart illustrates the estimated global share of Rare Earth Element (REE) mining production in 2025, highlighting China's continued dominance and the efforts of other nations to diversify supply.
17 elements: Scandium, Yttrium, and the 15 Lanthanides.
Not actually "rare" in geological abundance, but rarely found in economically viable concentrations.
Critical for high-tech industries: Smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, MRI machines, lasers, guided missiles, fighter jets.
Supply chain dominance: China currently controls a significant portion of global REE mining, processing, and refining.
Resource security concerns: Dependence on a single supplier creates vulnerability to price manipulation, export restrictions, and geopolitical leverage.
Environmental impact: Extraction and processing of REEs are often environmentally damaging due to toxic byproducts and radioactive waste.
Geopolitical tool: Nations use control over REE supply as a strategic asset in international relations.
Diversification efforts: Countries like the US, Australia, and India are investing in new mining projects and processing facilities to reduce reliance on China.
Recycling and substitution: Research into recycling REEs from electronic waste and finding alternative materials.
17 elements: Scandium, Yttrium, and the 15 Lanthanides.
Not actually "rare" in geological abundance, but rarely found in economically viable concentrations.
Critical for high-tech industries: Smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, MRI machines, lasers, guided missiles, fighter jets.
Supply chain dominance: China currently controls a significant portion of global REE mining, processing, and refining.
Resource security concerns: Dependence on a single supplier creates vulnerability to price manipulation, export restrictions, and geopolitical leverage.
Environmental impact: Extraction and processing of REEs are often environmentally damaging due to toxic byproducts and radioactive waste.
Geopolitical tool: Nations use control over REE supply as a strategic asset in international relations.
Diversification efforts: Countries like the US, Australia, and India are investing in new mining projects and processing facilities to reduce reliance on China.
Recycling and substitution: Research into recycling REEs from electronic waste and finding alternative materials.
