Abundant export of rare earths

The "rare earths" (unusual metals used in high technology) had leapt to the headlines a few months ago, when China had aired export restrictions. China actually has a near monopoly on rare earths, supplying around 90% of world consumption, and this market dominance is dangerous for companies that use these metals. But over the weekend it was learned that in the first 4 months of the year, Chinese exports of rare earths increased by almost a third compared to last year, according to analysts from the Hong Kong Economic Information and Agency. In short, the Chinese authorities bark but do not bite. And they know that if they pull the string there will be a rush to exploit other rare earth deposits (China produces 90% but has 50% of the world's reserves). However, the exploitation of other sources of rare earths also has its problems: on Saturday, Malaysian protesters in Kuala Lumpur protested against a rare earth refinery under construction in Malaysia: the minerals to be treated come fromWestern Australia, but contain thorium, a radioactive mineral.