“As US-China tensions over semiconductor chips continue, competition for rare earth metals is heating up, and supply risks are thus accelerating. On March 25, the EU announced 47 new minerals projects, including five rare earth metals, to diversify its access to raw minerals. This is the latest development towards the EU’s Critical Raw Materials goals of 10% mining, 40% processing (separating rare earths from other minerals) and 25% recycling rare earths by 2030. On March 20, the US also issued an Executive Order boosting US critical and rare earth metals to enhance national security and reduce US reliance on foreign minerals. In 2025, Trump has also called to annex Greenland for its mineral riches. He is also currently in talks with Ukrainian President Zelensky over a deal that guarantees US investment in Ukraine’s rare earths and critical minerals. Rare earth metals are considered today’s “vitamins” for high tech. Used in small quantities, these 17 minerals are essential components for over 200 commercial, hightech and military defense products. Trump has called rare earth metals demand the “gold rush of the 21st century” due to their importance in “emerging technologies.”
Morten W. Langer
