Beyond Pax Silica: Japan, France and Canada seek rare earth autonomy

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by Maria SiowMarch 14, 2026 at 01:00 AM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Japan, France, and Canada are collaborating to establish independent supply chains for rare earth minerals, seeking alternatives to reliance on both China and the United States. These G7 economies are exploring import quotas, subsidies for non-Chinese mining operations, and a Canadian-led initiative to create a reliable critical minerals network. The goal is to reduce geopolitical exposure amid concerns over China's dominance, which controls over 90% of global rare earth production. Officials are working on these "minilateral" arrangements to diversify their sources for these essential materials used in various technologies. The discussions acknowledge the need to support Western mining projects to compete with established Chinese producers.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Reuters ×240% Hiroyuki Hatada 60% Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry 60% Group of Seven 70% United States ×280% France 80% Canada ×280% Japan ×290% China ×490%

Keywords

rare earths 100% critical minerals 90% supply chains 80% china 80% united states 70% japan 60% geopolitical exposure 60% canada 50% france 50% mining 40%