How Much Control China Has Over the World’s Critical Minerals

By Bruno Venditti – Visual Capitalist Elements

China dominates the production of at least 15 critical minerals and mineral groups, including gallium (98.7%), magnesium (95%), tungsten (82.7%), and rare earths (69.2%). These materials are vital for clean energy, defense, and electronics. In addition to being the leading producer, the country also controls much of the refining capacity for many of these minerals. For example, around 90% of rare earths are refined in China.

This monopoly has become a major concern for other nations, with the Trump administration currently pushing for increased domestic production of these materials.