China cuts exports of vital rare earth minerals as trade war with U.S. intensifies

Rare earths are not as rare as many think. But China dominates the market – so strong that security experts warn of the serious consequences of recent controls. What the West can learn from previous conflicts.

The United States and China are fighting over rare earths. Depending on how Beijing behaves, the consequences could be severe for the European Union and the United States.

China’s restrictions on rare earths could hurt U.S. health care

As the trade war worsens, Beijing has banned the export of critical minerals used in the defense industry — but also for some cancer treatments and MRI exams.

How China took over the world’s rare earths industry

China seized mines and built factories. Japan took note and invested in Australia, the US did little. Read more at straitstimes.com.

MP Materials cuts off US rare earth to China amid ongoing tariff battle

In response to China’s retaliatory tariffs and export controls, MP Materials, which owns the only U.S. rare earths mine, announced Thursday they will be ceasing shipments of rare earth concentrate to China.The company said in a statement that they have been preparing for this moment and that it reflects "a long-term vision built to withstand short-term dislocation and emerge stronger."The company also said that selling their "critical" materials…

For a long time, China has generated more than 90% of the rare earths. Australia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Canada, Brazil, Tanzania and the United States, along with other territories, also generate this type of metal. However, the largest deposits found so far lie in the Asian giant. Likewise, the country headed by Xi Jinping also has the dominance of the land processing industry, vital for its use. By sticking to its share in the global industry, thi…