Why Greenland’s rare earth riches cannot end US dependence on China’s minerals

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Kandy WongJanuary 28, 2026 at 04:00 PM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Despite US efforts to reduce reliance on China for rare earth minerals, Greenland's eudialyte deposits, a potentially valuable source, remain commercially unviable. According to a mining investor, no country has yet developed a successful method for extracting rare earth oxides from eudialyte. China currently dominates the global rare earth mineral trade, controlling approximately 90% of the supply, which are essential for hi-tech manufacturing. This dominance has prompted the US to seek diversified supply chains, especially after China implemented export controls. The US is pursuing international partnerships and developing domestic capacity to counter China's leverage in the critical minerals sector.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Malaysia 50% Democratic Republic of Congo 50% Thailand 50% Saudi Arabia 60% Japan 60% Australia 70% Amvest Terraden 70% Greenland ×280% Donald Trump 80% United States ×280% China ×390% Tomasz Nadrowski 90%

Keywords

rare earth elements 100% china 90% mineral extraction 80% greenland 70% eudialyte 60% supply chains 60% critical minerals 50% us dependence 50% refining capacity 40%