VIDEO: Critical minerals race driving resource nationalism

The race to secure critical minerals vital for strategic industries has triggered a surge in resource nationalism, with 72 nations adopting increasingly protectionist policies, according to new research by global risk intelligence firm Verisk Maplecroft.

Jimena Blanco, the firm’s chief analyst, told MINING.COM’s Devan Murugan that geopolitical tensions are driving significant changes in mining policies worldwide. Asked about Chile’s recent overhaul of its lithium policy, she said it exemplified the global geopolitical shift in how resources are managed.

Blanco discussed how governments are prioritizing control over critical minerals, reshaping the global mining landscape. At the same time, the growing prominence of emerging economies is adding another layer of complexity. As they gain leverage in global negotiations, these nations are playing a larger role in reshaping the resource landscape. International agreements, Blanco noted, are increasingly essential to mitigating resource tensions and fostering collaboration among competing interests.

Navigating this era of heightened state control requires innovative strategies and global partnerships to ensure sustainable access to critical minerals.

Watch the full interview here: