Rare Earths is a classification given to 17 chemical elements that, while not truly "rare" in the Earth's crust, require complex extraction and processing and are essential for sectors such as renewable energy, electronics, defense, and high technology. The global market for these elements is highly strategic in today's economies.

Today, China dominates production and refining, in addition to imposing export restrictions—a scenario that worries dependent countries like the US, Japan, and the European Union. In the US, even with the Mountain Pass mine, over 80% of demand remains covered by imports, about 70% of which comes from China.

To address this situation, Washington has been seeking alternatives. Among them are agreements with Ukraine, investments in African projects, and participation in the Minerals Security Partnership, alongside 13 other allied countries. The objective is clear: to expand supply sources and reduce risks in a global chain that is increasingly critical to the energy transition and national security.

In today's bulletin, we present an overview of the rare earths market and US actions to diversify its supplier base.