Evidence
China's dominance of critical-mineral refining
Source
International Energy Agency, Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2025 — https://www.iea.org/news/diversification-is-the-cornerstone-of-energy-security-yet-critical-minerals-are-moving-in-the-opposite-direction. Matched to the source page by an automated research pass on 6 Oct 2026; not yet checked by a person..
What it proves
China's grip on processing is a counter-weapon to US chip controls and shows mutual vulnerability in the rivalry.
critical mineralsrefiningrare earthsieasupply chainenergy security