The Briefing Room
What are rare earths and why does everyone want them?
May 8, 2025
Henry Sanderson, an expert on green technology, and Ellie Saklatvala, the head of nonferrous metal pricing at Argus, dive into the world of rare earth minerals and critical technologies. They discuss how the U.S. seeks to secure access to Ukraine's resources amid geopolitical tensions. The conversation highlights China's dominance in this market and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. They explore investment trends, the significance of critical minerals in energy transition, and strategies for competing globally.
28:02
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Quick takeaways
- China dominates the rare earths market, supplying 80-90% of global needs, raising supply chain concerns for other nations.
- Countries are exploring geopolitical strategies for securing critical minerals, balancing mining needs with sustainable environmental practices.
Deep dives
Understanding Rare Earths and Critical Minerals
Rare earths refer to a group of 17 specific elements that are crucial for modern technology, including applications in electric vehicles, military hardware, and electronics. Although often called 'rare,' these minerals are not uncommon in nature; they become difficult to mine and process due to the complexity of extraction and refinement required. Critical minerals, which encompass approximately 50 minerals including rare earths, are deemed essential for national economic and security reasons. The production and processing of these minerals are largely dominated by China, which raises concerns for many nations regarding their supply chains.
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