Part 8/12:
In 2025, a fresh escalation unfolded when China declared that only approved exports of rare earth metals could leave its borders. Beijing claims this move is about national security, but in reality, it’s a power play to remind the world who controls crucial minerals—despite those minerals not being scarce globally. Countries like the U.S., Australia, and Africa possess abundant reserves, but China’s dominance lies in processing capacity, a strategic chokehold.