Archive · 19 Nov 2025
West Rushes to Secure Heavy Rare Earths Amid China Rivalry
The West is trying to make its own rare earth magnets to reduce dependence on China.
A big problem is finding heavy rare earth elements like dysprosium and terbium.
MP Materials, a U.S. company, is trying to get these from other countries and recycled materials.
Other companies are also looking for supplies, but there are concerns about the environment.
MP Materials, backed by U.S. government, aims to produce rare earth magnets within years
Shortage of heavy rare earth elements dysprosium and terbium poses challenge to Western supply chain
MP Materials' mine has scant heavies, relies on imports and recycled materials
Western companies scramble to secure heavy rare earth supply from global miners
Environmental concerns seen as potential bottleneck in heavy rare earth mining
- Who
- MP Materials, U.S. government, global miners, Western companies
- What
- Trying to secure heavy rare earth elements for magnet production
- When
- Currently, with plans extending to years ahead
- Where
- Global, with focus on the U.S., Brazil, Malaysia, and other countries
- Why
- To reduce reliance on China and secure supply for defense technology, electric vehicles, and other industries
Supply Chain Advocates
Environmental Concerns
Securing Heavy Rare Earths
Supply Chain Advocates
Crucial for Western magnet production and reducing China reliance
Environmental Concerns
Environmental concerns and higher processing costs pose challenges
- Primary Element Needed
- Dysprosium and Terbium
- MP Materials' Heavy Rare Earths Stockpile
- Less than 1.8%, with 4% dysprosium and terbium
- Estimated Dysprosium Oxide Demand by 2030
- 1,650 tons a year
- Estimated Heavy Rare Earths Deficit by 2035
- 2,920 tons in dysprosium and terbium oxides
- Estimated Western Heavy Rare Earths Production by 2035
- 29% of auto and wind sector consumption