The US remains heavily dependent on China for rare earths, which are essential to defence, clean energy, and high-tech manufacturing. While the delay eases immediate pressure on industries reliant on rare earths, it should prompt a renewed focus on building alternative supply routes – from developing domestic mining, processing and refining capacity to strengthening partnerships with allied producers. The trade-truce buys time, but lasting security will depend on reducing exposure to China’s dominance in this critical sector. Why are rare earths critical? Rare earth elements (REEs) - a group of 17 chemically related ... (full story)