China tightens grip on rare earth minerals, escalating global supply chain tensions

Beijing imposed strict export controls (requiring approval for shipments with >0.1% rare earth content) and harsh penalties for quota violations, weaponizing its 90% global market share ahead of Trump-Xi talks. The move targets Western defense, tech and green energy sectors, forcing the U.S. and EU to confront vulnerabilities in critical supply chains (e.g., F-35 jets, […]