How China’s Dominance in Rare Earths Alarms Western Nations

China’s control over global rare earth processing has raised concerns among Western nations, displaying a critical vulnerability in defense supply chains. With Beijing controlling roughly 90% of global rare earth processing, including mining, refining, and metal-making, the significance of this market dominance cannot be understated. By strategically investing in rare earth processing capabilities over 30 years, China positioned itself as a key player in the rare earths industry, using tactics like state-backed financing and export controls to solidify its hold. Western governments, on the other hand, downplayed the importance of rare earth processing, leading to a situation where they are…