KNOWLEDGE
TOPSTORY
2 Giants, 20 Years: The Consolidation of China’s Rare Earth Industry
The raw materials superpower: Rare earths and China are often mentioned in the same breath. There is a decades-long strategy behind this.
ANALYSES, BACKGROUND, INTERVIEWS
Mission: Independence From Imported Raw Materials. Matamulas (Spain)
The dependence on imports of rare earth elements from China will increase further as a result of the planned phase-out of combustion engine technology and the expansion of renewable energies. New raw material deposits are therefore being sought. In this series, rawmaterials.net presents promising candidates. This time we go to the south, to the Iberian Peninsula.
(Un-)Safety Factor: Taiwan’s Chip Industry
For Taiwan, the production of semiconductor chips is of more than just economic significance. In geopolitical terms too, the branch is important for strengthening the country’s position vis-a-vis China. There is even talk about a silicon shield protecting the island.
Mission: Independence From Imported Raw Materials. Norra Kärr
Sweden already plays a significant role in the history of rare earths. Perhaps the key to Europe's independence from raw materials also lies in Scandinavia.
The Sword of Damocles Made From Rare Earth Elements
China's market power in the rare earths sector is repeatedly perceived as a potential threat. But where do these fears come from?