Fact Check: "China is a leading producer of rare earth elements used in technology."
What We Know
China is indeed a dominant force in the global rare earth elements (REE) market. According to a report by the China Europe International Business School, China is home to over half of the world's rare earth reserves and accounts for almost all of the global rare earth refining capacity (source). As of 2023, China produced approximately 70 kilotons of refined rare earths, underscoring its position as a leading producer (source). Furthermore, data from the U.S. Geological Survey indicates that China supplied around 70% of rare earth compounds and metals imported by other countries from 2020 to 2023 (source).
The importance of rare earth elements in modern technology cannot be overstated. They are essential for the production of various high-tech devices, including smartphones, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies like wind turbines (source).
Analysis
The claim that "China is a leading producer of rare earth elements used in technology" is supported by multiple credible sources. The China Europe International Business School report highlights China's significant role in both the extraction and processing of rare earths, noting that it controls nearly 90% of global refining capacity (source). This level of control not only positions China as a leading producer but also gives it substantial leverage in international trade, particularly in the context of geopolitical tensions with countries like the United States (source).
Moreover, a report from DW emphasizes that China controls about 60% of global rare earth production and nearly 90% of refining (source). This statistic corroborates the earlier claims and illustrates the extent of China's dominance in this sector.
However, it is worth noting that while China's production levels are high, there are growing concerns about the environmental impact of rare earth mining and processing in the country. Issues such as pollution and soil degradation have been raised, which could affect public perception and regulatory responses in the future (source).
Despite these concerns, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the claim that China is a leading producer of rare earth elements, particularly in terms of volume and refining capabilities. The sources cited are reputable, including government reports and analyses from established research organizations.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "China is a leading producer of rare earth elements used in technology" is substantiated by substantial evidence from multiple credible sources. China's dominance in both the extraction and refining of rare earths positions it as a central player in the global supply chain for these critical materials, which are essential for modern technology.
Sources
- Understanding China's Global Rare Earth Power Leverage ... (https://english.ckgsb.edu.cn/knowledge/article/china-dominance-of-rare-earth-and-impact-on-global-market/)
- RARE EARTHS1 (https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2025/mcs2025-rare-earths.pdf)
- China's rare earth exports jump 23% in May despite ... (https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinas-rare-earth-exports-jump-23-may-despite-export-curbs-2025-06-09/)
- China Rare Earth Elements Market Size & Outlook, 2030 (https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/rare-earth-elements-market/china)
- Chinas Rare Earth Limits Shift Global Supply in 2025 (https://www.sphericalinsights.com/blogs/chinas-rare-earth-export-restrictions-global-market-shockwaves-and-australia-s-emerging-opportunity)
- Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2025 – Analysis - IEA (https://www.iea.org/reports/global-critical-minerals-outlook-2025/executive-summary)
- Rare Earth Processing 2025–Global Capacity and Key Players (https://rareearthexchanges.com/news/rare-earth-processing-2025-global-capacity-and-key-players/)
- How China wields rare earths as a strategic weapon – DW – 06/23/2025 (https://www.dw.com/en/how-china-wields-rare-earths-as-a-strategic-weapon/a-72868760)
