An MP Materials open-pit mine for rare-earth minerals in Mountain Pass, California. The U.S. is taking a multipronged approach to offset its dependence on China for critical minerals, through such steps as establishing a commercial stockpile and taking stakes in private mining projects. (Nikkei montage/Source photos by Getty and Reuters)
Tech Asia
Washington deploys billions and builds Asian partnerships, but refining remains key hurdle
PAK YIU
February 18, 2026 04:30 JST
