strategic resources
Understanding Rare Earth Elements: Critical Materials Powering Modern Technology and Defense Systems
Dec 03, 2025 04:27 pm CST
Rare earth elements, despite their name, are crucial components in modern technology from smartphones to fighter jets. As China implements export restrictions, these 17 elements have become strategic resources in global trade. The EU is now developing plans to boost European production of these critical materials, which are essential for magnets in wind turbines, components in F-35 fighter jets, smartphone functionality, electric vehicle batteries, and various industrial applications.
US-China Reach Historic One-Year Rare Earths Agreement as Trump-Xi Summit Exceeds Expectations
Oct 30, 2025 01:34 pm CST
US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have reached a significant one-year agreement on rare earth materials during their first face-to-face meeting in six years. Trump rated the diplomatic encounter as exceptionally positive, scoring it "12 on a scale of 10," while also announcing a reduction in fentanyl-related tariffs to 10 percent. The agreement addresses a strategic sector dominated by China that is crucial for defense, automotive, and electronics manufacturing, potentially averting another cycle of trade conflicts between the world's largest economies.
US and Japan Forge Strategic Partnership to Secure Critical Minerals and Rare Earths Supply Chains
Oct 28, 2025 03:49 pm CST
The United States and Japan have signed a landmark agreement to strengthen the security and resilience of critical minerals and rare earths supply chains, as President Trump visits Tokyo. This strategic partnership comes amid growing concerns over China's tightening restrictions on rare earth exports, with both nations committing to joint projects addressing supply gaps for essential components used in magnets, batteries, and other advanced technologies.