WHY CHINA IS WINNING THE RACE FOR RARE EARTHS

Rare earths are hiding inside some of the most important technologies in the modern world — from smartphones and electric vehicles to wind turbines, drones, data centers, and advanced military systems. But the real story isn't just about who has the minerals. China has built a dominant position across the entire rare earth supply chain — from mining and refining to the production of the powerful permanent magnets that modern technology depends on. In 2025, China used export controls on several rare earth elements and related products, showing just how much leverage control over this supply chain can provide. So how did China get so far ahead? Why is processing more important than simply having rare earth deposits? And can the rest of the world catch up? This is the story of the global race for rare earths. Fault Lines — History, geopolitics and the forces shaping the world. #RareEarths #China #Geopolitics #Technology #SupplyChain