What is the cost of diversifying rare earth supply chains? The International Energy Agency has presented new estimates, while U.S. companies are already taking concrete steps. Read the full details in our roundup.
IEA: $60 Billion Needed to Reduce Dependence on China for Rare Earths
The International Energy Agency (IEA) published a new report on Wednesday addressing supply security for rare earth elements. The analysis covers all stages of the value chain, from extraction to processing, and highlights the risks associated with potential supply chain disruptions. In particular, the supply of those rare earth elements used in magnet applications is heavily concentrated in a small number of countries. China holds a quasi-monopoly in this segment. Rare earths such as neodymium and terbium are also used in other technologies; however, according to the IEA, permanent magnets account for 95% of the total value of rare earth consumption.
To the article
The United States and Japan Ramp up the Race for Critical Raw Materials – Market Report Q1
Export restrictions, newly imposed price ceilings, and the formation of strategic raw material alliances continued to shape market dynamics in the first quarter of 2026. The trends observed in the previous year persisted with notable consistency. In cooperation with the raw materials trading company TRADIUM GmbH, this report analyzes key developments in the United States, China, and Europe and assesses their implications for global commodity markets.
To the article
USA: Department of Energy to Support Domestic Production of Critical Raw Materials
The United States is continuing to expand its raw materials strategy: the U.S. Department of Energy announced this week two new programs, the Critical Minerals and Materials Accelerator and an additional funding initiative totaling up to $69 million, aimed at accelerating innovative technologies across the critical minerals value chain toward commercial deployment.
To the article
USA Rare Earth Secures Access to Key Technologies in Europe
USA Rare Earth is pressing ahead with its European strategy: by acquiring a stake of around 12.5% in the French specialist Carester, the company secures access to key technologies in the separation, processing, and recycling of rare earth elements. At the same time, an integrated industrial platform is being established in southern France, covering the entire value chain, from raw material processing to magnet manufacturing.
To the article