Economy|Trade WarDespite US push, China poised to dominate rare earths for yearsBreaking China’s stranglehold on supplies of the critical minerals is likely to take at least a decade, experts say.

The United States and several other countries are actively working to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on China for rare earth minerals. These minerals are critical for various industries, including technology and defense. Despite political efforts and significant financial investments, achieving self-sufficiency in rare earth supplies may take over a decade.

Achieving independence from Chinese rare earths involves securing complex supply chains, which encompass mining, processing, metallization, and magnet manufacturing. The process is challenged by high capital costs, technical expertise gaps, and environmental concerns. Additionally, the rising demand for these minerals, used in products like smartphones and electric vehicles, adds to the complexity of the task.

The U.S. government has initiated several measures to bolster its access to rare earths, including stockpiling supplies, expediting domestic mining projects, and entering agreements with Canadian mining companies. Recent agreements with Australia and other nations highlight a strategy to invest billions in developing alternative sources of these critical minerals.

Similar initiatives are underway in Europe and Asia. For instance, the European Union's Critical Raw Materials Act aims to process 40% of its annual consumption within the bloc by 2030. New facilities have been established in Estonia and France to support this goal. Asian countries, including India and Japan, are also making strides to secure domestic supplies.

China remains a dominant player in the rare earths market, controlling approximately 70% of mining operations and 90% of processing. Recent announcements by China to implement export controls on rare earth materials have raised concerns about potential disruptions in global supply chains. These controls, effective from December 1, will require licenses for exporting certain materials containing Chinese-sourced minerals.

The push for supply chain diversification and reducing dependence on Chinese rare earths is a complex, long-term endeavor. While efforts are being made globally, the transition involves significant technical and financial challenges. The strategic rivalry between the U.S. and China is likely to continue, even as countries work to secure their critical mineral supplies.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.