Rare Earth Metals Coverage

Rare earth elements or rare earth metals are a collection of seventeen chemical elements in the periodic table, specifically the fifteen lanthanoids plus scandium and yttrium.

Currently, China produces over 97% of the world's rare earth supply and all of the world's heavy rare earths.  New demand has recently strained supply, and there is growing concern that the world may soon face a shortage of the rare earths.  These concerns have intensified due to the actions of China, the predominant supplier. Specifically, China has announced regulations on exports and a crackdown on smuggling.

Rare earth metals are critical to many high-tech electronic devices. They are needed for military devices like guided missiles and lasers, which means they have national security implications. Furthermore, they are essential for "green" technology devices like solar panels, electric cars, and wind turbines.

Facts of China's rare earth reserves

In wake of the recent attention and international developments on rare earth minerals, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has completed its first review of China's rare-earth industry.

DOE releases rare earth minerals strategy

The US Department of Energy has released a critical materials strategy based on extensive research by the Department during the past year examining the role of earth metals and other materials in the clean energy economy.

U.S., Japanese Officials Meet To Talk Rare Earths

U.S. and Japanese officials are meeting to discuss whether the U.S. can supply rare earths to Japan. But uncertainties surrounding the American reserves remain, as there are no active mines in the U.S.

China denies blocking rare earth shipments to US, Europe

China's Commerce Ministry denied the New York Times report stating the government has extended block on shipments of rare earth to include the United States and Europe, other than Japan, a Bloomberg report said, citing a faxed response from the Ministry.