This week once again showcased the deep ties between raw materials and geopolitics. China tightened export controls on critical minerals, while U.S. President Trump signaled interest in Ukraine’s rare earth deposits in exchange for further support—the details in our roundup.
China Expands List of Critical Minerals Subject to Export Controls
China has expanded its list of critical minerals requiring export licenses, as announced by the Ministry of Commerce. The new regulations apply to certain compounds and products made from indium, molybdenum, bismuth, tungsten, and tellurium. These goods are classified as dual-use items, meaning they have civilian and military applications.
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Trump Seeks Rare Earth Deal With Ukraine
U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated he wants Ukraine to grant the U.S. access to its rare earth resources as a condition for continued support in its war against Russia. At a press conference on Monday, Trump asserted that the U.S. has provided Ukraine with more military and economic aid than its European allies and emphasized the need to rebalance this disparity.
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Critical Minerals: India Removes Tariffs on Waste and Scrap
India plans to remove import tariffs on waste and scrap from twelve critical minerals to secure the availability of these resources for domestic production. Additionally, tariffs on the scrap and waste of lithium-ion batteries will also be abolished. These measures aim to stimulate domestic production and enhance the country’s raw material autonomy.
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EU-Chile Interim Trade Agreement Launches
The Interim Trade Agreement (ITA) between the European Union and Chile has officially come into force. Signed in December 2023, the ITA promises to strengthen bilateral relations as well as foster trade and investment opportunities. While Chile is set to benefit from increased financing from Europe, the EU hopes to gain better access to the mineral wealth of the Latin American country.
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Africa’s First Critical Minerals Refining Facility to Start Development
American Resources and its holding ReElement Technologies have partnered with South African-based Novare Holdings to establish Africa’s first integrated critical mineral refining facility with a $100 million investment. As one of the first of its kind, the facility will enhance Africa’s role in the global supply chain by producing high-purity lithium carbonate, rare earth oxides, and other critical minerals locally instead of exporting raw materials abroad.
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