Rare Earths Spark Rally, Geopolitical Supply Risks

Rare earth elements—17 metals essential to smartphones, hard drives, flat screens, wind turbines, EV motors and defense systems—have become a flashpoint between the U.S. and China.
China produced about 270,000 metric tons in 2024, roughly 69% of global mine output, and controls more than 85% of global processing capacity, giving it outsized influence over refined supplies.
Export restrictions Beijing introduced earlier this year and tightened again ahead of a planned U.S.–China summit prompted U.S. threats of retaliatory tariffs, with President Trump proposing a 100% tariff increase; analysts say the episode erased roughly $2 trillion in U.S. market value in a single session.
U.S. officials labeled the measures a global supply‑chain power grab, while Beijing says it followed international norms and notified Washington; both sides indicated the rules remain drafts that could be softened.
Public rare‑earth miners have surged—MP Materials up 422% YTD, Energy Fuels about 300%, USA Rare Earth 142%—but market observers warn the sector is highly speculative and volatile.
Academics and analysts advise prioritizing miners with proven exploration and processing, steady output and cash flow, and emphasize rigorous risk management amid persistent geopolitical and technical supply risks.