Rare-earth supplier calls for more diverse supply chains

The head of a mining company developing a project in Brazil has called for a reduction in dependence on China for rare-earth supplies, The Guardian reports. The company hopes to supply European buyers.

These materials are used in products including vehicles and wind turbines. The comments reflect a prospective supplier’s position; the planned supply is not yet an established outcome.

An alternative supply takes time

Viridis has opened a demonstration plant in Brazil and wants to supply the European market. The discussion reflects concern about dependence on Chinese processing and export policies. A demonstration plant is an important development stage, but it is not equivalent to an established commercial supply chain at the scale customers require.