Key Highlights
- China controls 90% of rare earth processing and 80% of the tungsten supply.
- Export controls in 2025–2026 triggered sixfold price spikes in critical minerals.
- Licensing approvals for European firms fell below 25%, tightening global access.
- Investments in AI and advanced manufacturing aim to reduce reliance on U.S. chips.
China is accelerating its push to dominate rare earths and advanced technology, introducing strict export controls that have reshaped global supply chains.
According to a multi-institutional analysis, Beijing now controls 90% of rare-earth processing, alongside major shares of tungsten and antimony.
At the same time, China is investing heavily in AI supply chains and advanced manufacturing to reduce dependence on U.S. semiconductors.
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