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Rare Earths Trade Statistics: U.S. Sources and Import Reliance

China dominates mining and processing of rare earths. Here's what investors need to know.

By Jack CaporalUpdated Feb 24, 2026 at 7:02 PM EST | Fact-checked by Margo Winton Parodi

Key Points

  • China controls 70% of rare-earth extraction and 90% of processing.
  • U.S. 2025 rare-earth imports were 71% from China, critical for defense and energy.
  • Investors should track U.S. efforts to boost domestic rare-earth production.

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