Resilience of critical transition minerals supply chain in the context of strategic rivalry: implications for the national policy and regulatory frameworks

Abstract

The global shift to cleaner energy has increased the demand for critical transition minerals like lithium, cobalt and rare earth elements, essential for clean energy technologies. Policymakers face challenges in assessing these minerals’ criticality amid supply/demand imbalances and reliance on a few countries for production. Drawing on the literature on strategic rivalry, this article explores how changing geopolitical realities have led to the emergence of protective measures in nations with market dominance. It also examines the strategic responses of key players – the US, EU and China – through their national policy and regulatory frameworks to address supply security.

Topics & Concepts