Global Rare Earths: Supply, Policy and Project Risks

A mix of regulatory delays, fresh discoveries and ecological findings is reshaping the rare-earths landscape across jurisdictions.

Brazil has postponed a long‑awaited auction of exploration areas after its mining regulator said it lacks resources to proceed, while a Utah miner announced a potentially major deposit of rare earths and other critical minerals that could affect North American supply dynamics.

Policy reform, security concerns and workforce gaps will determine whether recent US mining momentum converts into lasting capacity by 2026. At the same time, a large ecological study commissioned by The Metals Co. reports steep declines in seabed biological communities related to deep‑sea mining impacts, reinforcing Norway’s decision to pause licences and prompting wider environmental scrutiny.

Market and industry analysts note rare earths are rising in trade and geopolitical talks, and that mining productivity has lagged for over a decade — a structural risk as net‑zero demand tightens supply chains. Price models project modest upward pressure into 2026, even as high costs, consultation disputes and executive turnover leave major projects exposed.

Corporate moves include USA Rare Earth accelerating the Round Top project timeline and Lynas warning of feed shortfalls after plant grid interruptions. Governments are increasing domestic mining and recycling targets, but permitting, ecological science and infrastructure remain critical bottlenecks.