Via Metal Miner Rare earth elements and semiconductors have taken on that critical national development role once occupied by oil and petroleum products. Despite the ongoing U.S.-China competition, the latter country controls a full 90% of the global rare earths supply, transforming these elements into potential political weapons. With regard to semiconductors, China’s Civilian-Military Integration Strategy aims to develop more advanced technology, circumvent U.S. sanctions, and use rare earths to disrupt the manufacturing supply chain. This…
