Can US-Australia rare earth deal loosen China’s grip on critical minerals trade?

A critical minerals framework deal valued at US$8.5 billion between the United States and Australia will allow American buyers to rely less on Chinese rare earth metals, but developing a secure, independent supply chain may take the US 10 to 20 years, according to analysts.
“Deals like this go a long way – this is a good start,” said Pini Althaus, CEO of US-based rare earth metal investor and developer Cove Capital, adding that Beijing would likely grow “more concerned” as the deal matures and…