➀ Robert Friedland, a renowned resource investor, warns at the GSIS security conference in Hamburg about China's strategic use of rare earth metals as a tool of power.
➁ China's export controls on seven rare earths and certain magnets have affected industries in the US and Europe, with potential shortages of samarium and terbium, crucial for aerospace and ship navigation systems.
➂ Japan demonstrates the efficiency of recycling to secure rare earth supplies, with 60% of the annual demand for gallium met through recycling.
➃ Europe's reliance on China for rare earth supply is over 90%, and the need for a European strategic reserve is emphasized.
➄ The European Union is urged to invest in rare earth mining and processing to match China and the US, with a potential for significant investment opportunities.
➅ Only 2.5% of the annual US consumption of rare earths is used in the defense industry, the limited impact of potential shortages on military applications.
