Скачать или смотреть Rare Earth Rivalry: Why Is the Philippines Entangled in the US-China Scramble？

Rare Earth Rivalry: Why Is the Philippines Entangled in the US-China Scramble?
Why have rare earths become a crucial strategic resource?
Why is the Philippines siding with the United States over China?

A quiet but intense struggle for rare earth elements has recently escalated, drawing the Philippines into a global spotlight. What makes rare earths such a vital strategic asset? And in this high-stakes game, why is the Philippines siding with the US instead of China, a country with which it has close economic ties? Let's delve into this rare earth rivalry to uncover the complex interests and geopolitical factors at play.

The US Seeks Rare Earth Alternatives Globally
The US has long been vulnerable in its rare earth supply chain. Despite having significant reserves, the cost and complexity of mining and processing are high. In the 1990s, the US rare earth industry collapsed, unable to compete with China. In recent years, the US has tried to rebuild its domestic supply chain to reduce its dependency on China. On July 15, 2025, MP Materials, the only operating rare earth mine in the US, announced a $500 million partnership with Apple to supply critical materials for its electronic products. MP Materials had previously received a $400 million investment from the US Department of Defense. However, this company, which carries America's hopes for rare earth independence, faces numerous challenges. Its production costs are at least 50% higher than China's, and it is still in the development phase for key technologies like heavy rare earth separation.
To break its dependence on Chinese rare earths, the US has begun to seek alternative sources globally. The Philippines, with its rich rare earth deposits, has become a prime target. In July 2025, during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Kuala Lumpur, US Secretary of State Rubio signaled to Philippine Foreign Minister Lazaro that the US was "very interested" in the Philippines' critical mineral resources, emphasizing the need to "diversify critical mineral supply chains." Just weeks later, Philippine President Marcos Jr., in his State of the Nation Address, for the first time listed critical minerals as a priority for national development, signaling an openness to attracting foreign investment.