China’s dominance in rare earth minerals, controlling over 60% of global production and nearly 90% of processing, reshapes the global supply chain and high-tech industries. Through cooperation with BRICS countries, China aims to establish an independent, self-sustaining supply chain, reducing reliance on Western suppliers. This collaboration enhances BRICS’ economic power and positions emerging economies for greater self-sufficiency, challenging Western economic hegemony.
BRICS bridge- China’s unrivaled control over the rare earth supply chain is reshaping the power dynamics in high-tech industries and green energy. The country controls 60% of global rare earth production and nearly 90% of its processing capacity, elements that are critical for electric vehicles, smart technologies, military equipment, and renewable energy solutions. This dominance didn’t emerge overnight; China declared these resources strategic decades ago, banned foreign investments, and built its refining infrastructure into a monopoly. Today, the world is more dependent than ever on China to supply these vital materials.
However, this influence extends beyond rare earths. China now controls 60% of global lithium refining, 77% of cobalt processing, and nearly 100% of graphite used in lithium-ion battery anodes. It also leads the processing of nickel, aluminum, copper, tin, magnesium, and tungsten. This monopoly on refining means that even countries mining these materials elsewhere often have to send them to China for processing, giving the country a strategic hold over the global supply chain. This control not only cements China’s role as the hub of the global supply chain but also positions it as a powerful lever in shaping future industries.
Meanwhile, BRICS can be the game-changer in global economic order. China, as the powerhouse of mineral processing, can partner with BRICS nations to create an independent, self-sustaining supply chain. Countries like Brazil and Russia, rich in raw materials, and India and South Africa, leading in technology and innovation, can form a complete ecosystem that reduces reliance on Western suppliers. This collaboration not only solidifies China’s dominance but also sets the stage for BRICS members to achieve greater economic self-sufficiency. As a BRICS Bridge, these efforts can rewrite the global supply chain and shift the economic power balance in favor of emerging economies.