In the United States, President Trump invoked emergency powers under the Defense Production Act to increase domestic output of lithium, nickel, and rare earths, vital for electronics and EV batteries. Agencies have been ordered to identify potential mines on federal lands and streamline permitting for accelerated project approvals. Former Newmont executive David Copley will direct the administration’s mining policy, with a forthcoming mineral and natural resources deal expected with Ukraine. Meanwhile, China has raised state funding for strategic mineral exploration to bolster self-sufficiency, tightened exports of chip-critical minerals like gallium and germanium, and halted antimony shipments to the EU, causing global price hikes and supply disruptions.
Elsewhere, uranium markets have faced volatility tied to shifting U.S. tariff policies, uncertainties around Canadian and Russian supplies, and fluctuating AI-driven investor interest. Copper has also become a focal point, with U.S. buyers bracing for record deliveries as traders redirect shipments initially intended for Asian markets to avoid anticipated tariffs. Observers in multiple industries are tracking these developments, particularly in regard to potential ripple effects on established trade flows and pricing structures for metals critical to electronics, EVs, and renewable energy equipment.
In parallel with geopolitical moves, various alliances and partnerships have been announced to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on dominant producers. Russia’s sovereign wealth fund expressed interest in collaborating with U.S. firms for rare earth projects, while Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU | TSX: EFR) and Chemours established a strategic alliance to strengthen the U.S. market for heavy mineral sands. Companies like Energy Fuels and POSCO International continued exploring non-China rare earth magnet supply chains, and Japan’s JOGMEC, along with Iwatani, invested in a French rare earths refinery. Amid these agreements, some U.S. firms procured cobalt from Indonesia—produced by China’s Lygend Resources—to skirt tariffs on Chinese and Canadian cobalt, reflecting an evolving landscape driven by trade measures and the quest for technological advantages.
China’s rare earth dominance projections drew significant attention when a Chinese Academy of Sciences study forecasted the nation’s global share could fall from about 62% to 28% by 2035, and further to 23% by 2040. The research, relying on agent-based modeling of over 1,000 deposits worldwide, predicted that new mining in Africa, South America, Australia, and Greenland would reshape rare earth supply chains. The study also urged China to expand domestic exploration, diversify global partnerships, and reinforce strategic reserves.
The Technology Metals Report (TMR) is a weekly compilation of the top stories selected by the Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) Board of Directors. For access to this board, click here, or to become a Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) Member and have the TMR emailed to you weekly, click here
China’s rare earth dominance could crumble in 10 years, CAS study forecasts (March 21, 2025, Source) – A study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences forecasts that China’s share of global rare earth supplies could drop from an estimated 62 per cent to 28 per cent by 2035, and further to 23 per cent by 2040. New mining frontiers in Africa, South America, Australia and Greenland are expected to reshape the market. Researchers used agent-based modelling of more than 1,000 deposits worldwide and noted potential rises in production from sites like Brazil’s Serra Verde and Australia’s Mount Weld. They also advised that China expand domestic exploration, diversify international partnerships, and bolster strategic rare earth reserves.
Trump invokes emergency powers to boost US critical minerals production (March 20, 2025, Source) – U.S. President Donald Trump invoked emergency powers under the Defense Production Act to enhance domestic production of critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and rare earths, essential for electronics and electric vehicle batteries. The order directs agencies to identify mines that can be quickly approved and federal lands suitable for mineral extraction, while encouraging faster permitting. Former Newmont executive David Copley has been appointed to oversee mining policy. Trump also announced a forthcoming minerals and natural resources deal with Ukraine.
China raises state funding for strategic minerals amid US trade war (March 20, 2025, Source) – China is boosting funding for strategic mineral exploration to advance President Xi Jinping’s goal of self-sufficiency amid intensifying US competition. In the past year, many provincial-level governments introduced larger subsidies or eased access for mining, while Beijing’s annual investment in geological exploration reached over $13.8bn since 2022. China has also tightened exports of minerals vital to chip production, including gallium and germanium, in response to US tech restrictions. Washington, meanwhile, aims to reduce reliance on China’s dominance of crucial minerals, focusing on domestic mining and access to resources in regions such as Greenland, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
China export controls freeze antimony shipments to EU from October (March 20, 2025, Source) – China has not shipped any antimony to the EU since October, after imposing export controls that have driven a global price surge for the strategic metal. Responsible for nearly half of worldwide supply in 2023, China tightened restrictions in August, citing national security. That move triggered stockpiling before the initial curbs took effect in September. Europe’s already low stock levels pushed prices further up, with some material surging over 300% in a year. Customs data show no deliveries to top EU importer the Netherlands since October, reflecting a five-month pause in exports to the bloc.
Uranium Bulls Get Spooked by Unknowns From Canada to Russia (March 19, 2025, Source) – Uranium investments faced difficulties in the early year due to Trump’s uncertain tariff policies and geopolitical tensions with Canada and Russia. The spot price of triuranium octoxide dropped by 12%, impacting funds and shares related to uranium, like the Sprott Physical Uranium Trust and Cameco. Despite previous boosts from AI industry interest, fluctuations in AI stocks and inconsistent governmental actions have increased market instability. Additionally, tariffs affecting Canadian uranium and potential changes in Russian uranium availability due to diplomatic efforts further complicate the market. However, long-term fundamentals and rising demand, especially from nuclear plant constructions in China, may still support uranium prices.
Tariff Risk Unleashes Record Copper Shipments Bound for US Ports (March 19, 2025, Source) – The U.S. is bracing for a record influx of copper, with up to 150,000 metric tons expected soon, as traders anticipate potential tariffs by President Trump. Firms like Trafigura Group, Glencore Plc, and Gunvor Group, originally targeting Asian markets, are now redirecting shipments to the U.S. This shift is causing copper prices in the U.S. to spike, significantly higher than international rates, prompting a scramble for additional warehousing in cities like New Orleans and Baltimore. The potential tariffs, aimed at protecting national security, could disrupt global copper supply chains, affect pricing dynamics, and shift trade flows, particularly impacting China, the world’s largest consumer of copper.
Strategic Chaos: Decoding Trump’s Diplomatic Gambit on Ukraine, NATO, and the Pursuit of Critical Minerals (March 18, 2025, Source) – The Trump administration’s controversial foreign policy actions—including advocating territorial concessions from Ukraine, challenging NATO’s stability, and reshaping BRICS relationships—may represent a strategic bid for economic leverage and critical minerals dominance. By possibly seeking temporary cooperation with Russia and isolating China, the administration seemingly aims to secure vital resources essential for technology and defense. Diplomatic decisions perceived as impulsive or chaotic, including openness to adjusting sanctions against Russia and recalibrating long-standing alliances, might conceal a calculated strategic vision, potentially realigning global geopolitical dynamics to serve immediate American economic and security interests.
Russia’s sovereign wealth fund is eyeing rare earth projects with US companies, CEO says (March 18, 2025, Source) – Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, led by CEO Kirill Dmitriev, is seeking to develop its rare earth deposits and is interested in partnering with U.S. companies. Dmitriev, recently appointed as President Putin’s envoy for international economic cooperation, discussed this at a meeting with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia. Russia, holding the world’s fifth-largest reserves of rare earth metals, is looking to counteract China’s dominance in the sector. The Russian Natural Resources Ministry reports that the country has significant reserves ready for development. Dmitriev emphasized the mutual benefits of such international partnerships.
Energy Fuels and Chemours Forming Strategic Alliance to Create a Domestic Supply Chain of Critical Minerals for the United States (March 18, 2025, Source) – Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU | TSX: EFR) and The Chemours Company announced a strategic alliance to strengthen U.S. domestic rare earth and critical mineral supply chains. Energy Fuels is developing heavy mineral sands projects overseas, while Chemours mines and separates mineral sands in Florida and Georgia. Industry and government leaders, including the National Mining Association and lawmakers from Utah and Florida, welcomed the collaboration, highlighting its role in meeting growing demand for rare earth elements, titanium, and zirconium. They emphasized that boosting domestic production can reduce reliance on foreign sources and support national security and advanced manufacturing needs.
The Critical Minerals Secret Supply Chain Sauce is in the Technology Companies (March 17, 2025, Source) – Jack Lifton of the Critical Minerals Institute emphasizes that the control over critical minerals stems not from mining but from technological prowess, particularly in chemistry and process engineering. This focus shifts the strategic advantage to those who master complex processing and integration within domestic supply chains, reducing dependency on foreign sources like China. The article highlights the intricate processes needed to transform raw minerals into usable forms for technology, a knowledge gap often overlooked by policymakers and industry leaders. Consequently, understanding and developing these processes are vital for national security and economic independence in high-tech industries.
Japan’s JOGMEC, Iwatani to invest $120 million in French rare earths project (March 17, 2025, Source) – Japan’s JOGMEC and gas firm Iwatani have announced a $120 million investment in French firm Caremag, a unit of Carester, to secure rare earths supplies. This first stand-alone refinery investment from JOGMEC follows a 2020 revision of its governing act. The deal aims to diversify procurement and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals used in EV motors, offshore wind turbines, and electronics. The facility in southwestern France is slated to produce over 1,000 metric tons of rare earth oxides, covering about 20% of Japan’s future demand.
Cobalt produced by China’s Lygend in Indonesia skirts Trump tariffs (March 17, 2025, Source) – U.S. companies are purchasing cobalt from Indonesia produced by China’s Lygend Resources, avoiding the tariffs that the Trump administration has imposed on direct imports from China. These tariffs also extend to Canada, another significant cobalt supplier. Lygend’s production in Indonesia benefits from its tariff-free status, allowing traders to sell cobalt to U.S. buyers at lower prices compared to those from China. Despite U.S. tariffs reaching up to 35% on Chinese cobalt, Indonesian cobalt sales are gaining traction, offering a more cost-effective alternative for U.S. industries like aerospace and electric vehicle manufacturing.
US-Based Energy Fuels and South Korea-Based POSCO International Forge Collaboration to Create Non-China Rare Earth Magnet Supply Chain (March 17, 2025, Source) – Energy Fuels Inc. and South Korea-based POSCO International have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that could establish a rare earth element (REE) supply chain independent of China. Energy Fuels will supply its U.S.-processed NdPr oxide from the White Mesa Mill in Utah for use in POSCO’s traction motor cores, which power electric and hybrid vehicles. Initial qualification samples have already met POSCO’s specifications, with larger-scale sample testing planned. If successful, mass production could begin later this year, contributing to EV manufacturing in the United States, Europe, Japan, and South Korea.
Forget about rare earth minerals. We need more copper (March 16, 2025, Source) – Demand for copper, essential for electronics, electric vehicles, and green technologies, is surging while supply lags. Prices have climbed 75% since 2020, and leading mines in Chile, Peru, and the DRC are struggling to meet global needs. Manufacturers like Thomas Instrumentation rely heavily on copper for circuit boards, where it makes up about 90% of materials. Though copper can be recycled, only a third of U.S. supply comes from scrap. Industry experts note that new mining projects face lengthy approvals and environmental challenges, while limited smelting capacity and potential trade disputes exacerbate concerns over copper availability.
InvestorNews.com Media Highlights
- March 18, 2025 – Strategic Chaos: Decoding Trump’s Diplomatic Gambit on Ukraine, NATO, and the Pursuit of Critical Minerals https://bit.ly/4kMCi8a
- March 17, 2025 – The Critical Minerals Secret Supply Chain Sauce is in the Technology Companies https://bit.ly/4iQrfZG
- March 15, 2025 – Where will the metals for the robot revolution come from? https://bit.ly/4bQlfhe
InvestorNews.com Video Highlights
- March 21, 2025 – Constantine Karayannopoulos Spotlights Brazil and Calls for Strategic Shift in Global Critical Minerals Investment https://youtu.be/0lNSMVethak
- March 20, 2025 – Allonnia’s Chuck Price on the Biotechnology Revolution Transforming Critical Mineral Processing https://youtu.be/KceZK2fAXps
- March 19, 2025 – Zentek CEO Greg Fenton on Revolutionizing Graphite Purity and Commercializing Breakthrough Filtration Technology https://youtu.be/jZhs5XDUSjs
- March 19, 2025 – Energy Fuels’ Debra Benethum on Building a Critical Minerals Hub Within the United States https://youtu.be/CR_2HyDB0Fo
- March 19, 2025 – The Rare Earth Observer’s Thomas Kruemmer Reveals Top American Rare Earth Project and Calls Ukraine Rare Earths “Commercially Not Viable” https://youtu.be/y-2heQdwQbs
- March 19, 2025 – Coniagas Battery Metals CEO Frank Basa Reveals Exceptional Nickel-Copper Discovery Potential at Quebec’s High-Grade Graal Project https://youtu.be/LlGWNoy8UPA
- March 19, 2025 – Roman Stiftner Discusses Europe’s Strategic Shift on Critical Raw Materials and Canadian Partnerships https://youtu.be/GbUjNLEK1ek
- March 18, 2025 – Nano One Materials’ Dan Blondal on Revolutionizing Cathode Production and the Imminent North American LFP Market Boom https://youtu.be/6k2MLAAb9v8
- March 18, 2025 – Cerro de Pasco’s Guy Goulet Unveils Major Gallium Discovery, Targets $14B Above-Ground Resource https://youtu.be/MvJ6GM0Ul9o
- March 18, 2025 – Cobra Resources CEO Rupert Verco Highlights Revolutionary Rare Earths Mining Method at PDAC 2025 https://youtu.be/zv2nt7e1_J4
- March 17, 2025 – Power Metallic’s Terry Lynch on Securing Renowned Investors and Accelerating What Many Hope Will Be Canada’s Next Major Polymetallic Mine https://youtu.be/sZilqH0lg5o
- March 17, 2025 – Appia Rare Earths & Uranium’s Tom Drivas on Significant Progress in Brazil and “One of the Highest Grade Rare Earth Projects in North America” https://youtu.be/vSKfbh5l_j0
- March 15, 2025 – CVMR’s Michael Hargett Reveals the Future of Critical Minerals: Driving Global Innovation with Advanced Refining Technologies https://youtu.be/N1Y-HPJi7ZA
- March 15, 2025 – Rowena Smith on Australian Strategic Materials Rapidly Emerging as a Central Player in the U.S. Critical Minerals Supply Chain https://youtu.be/neRYbkR0IOU
InvestorNews.com Member News
- March 20, 2025 – Nano One Receives C$12.75 Million in Contributions from Government Programs https://bit.ly/4kIEiOO
- March 18, 2025 – Neo Performance Materials Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results https://bit.ly/4kZ14li
- March 18, 2025 – Energy Fuels and Chemours Forming Strategic Alliance to Create a Domestic Supply Chain of Critical Minerals for the United States https://bit.ly/4kxkXQp
- March 17, 2025 – Panther Metals PLC Dotted Lake: Drilling Results https://bit.ly/3RkgH9m
- March 17, 2025 – Power Metallic to Increase From 3 to 6 Drill Rigs at the Nisk Project https://bit.ly/4iUp7jB
- March 17, 2025 – US-Based Energy Fuels and South Korea-Based POSCO International Forge Collaboration to Create Non-China Rare Earth Magnet Supply Chain https://bit.ly/4iW1jMc
The upcoming CMI Summit IV, themed The War for Critical Minerals and Capital Resources, is scheduled to take place in Toronto, Ontario, on May 13-14, 2025. This event aims to unite industry leaders to tackle pressing issues in the global critical minerals market. To learn more about the CMI Summit IV, click here – or to secure a CMI Summit IV 2-day Delegates Pass, click here
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