Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: Global Issue, Issue: Rare Earth Elements.
Context:
Rare earth elements (REEs), though abundant in nature, have become vital strategic resources for modern technologies such as EVs, wind turbines, electronics, and defense systems.
Key Takeaways:
- China’s overwhelming control over their mining and processing has turned REEs into a key tool of geopolitical influence, especially in the ongoing US-China trade tensions.
What Are Rare Earth Elements (REEs)?
- Rare earths comprise 17 metallic elements the lanthanides (from lanthanum to lutetium), plus scandium and yttrium.
- They are prized for their magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties, making them vital for advanced electronics, defense systems, and green technologies.
Why Are They Called “Rare”?
- Low concentration: They are not found in large deposits, making extraction costly.
- Environmental concerns: Mining and refining processes are highly polluting and energy-intensive.
- Geographical monopoly: Over 60% of global REE mining and 90% of processing occurs in China, making it the world’s near-exclusive supplier.
Rare Earth Strategic Analysis:
Global REE Production, Reserves and India Impact:
Control over the supply chain, not rarity, defines rare earths’ power. China’s dominance gives it leverage, urging India to pursue self-reliance through mining, clean technology, and global cooperation.
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/rare-earths-china-us-trade-10309021/
La Excellence IAS Academy, the best IAS coaching in Hyderabad, known for delivering quality content and conceptual clarity for UPSC 2025 preparation.
FOLLOW US ON:
◉ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CivilsPrepTeam
◉ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaExcellenceIAS
◉ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laexcellenceiasacademy/
GET IN TOUCH:
Contact us at info@laex.in, https://laex.in/contact-us/
or Call us @ +91 9052 29 2929, +91 9052 99 2929, +91 9154 24 2140
OUR BRANCHES:
Head Office: H No: 1-10-225A, Beside AEVA Fertility Center, Ashok Nagar Extension, VV Giri Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Hyderabad, 500020
Madhapur: Flat no: 301, survey no 58-60, Guttala begumpet Madhapur metro pillar: 1524, Rangareddy Hyderabad, Telangana 500081
Bangalore: Plot No: 99, 2nd floor, 80 Feet Road, Beside Poorvika Mobiles, Chandra Layout, Attiguppe, Near Vijaya Nagara, Bengaluru, 560040
