Context
The US is pushing G7 countries to act faster to reduce dependence on China for rare earths and critical minerals, as China dominates mining, processing and export controls in this sector.
What are Rare Earths?
Group of 17 elements:
• 15 Lanthanides
• Scandium
• Yttrium
• Not actually “rare”, but difficult to extract and refine
Used in
• Defence: missiles, radar, fighter jets
• Clean energy: wind turbines, EV motors
• Electronics: smartphones, semiconductors
• Magnets: permanent high-strength magnets
