Critical mineral supply chain fundamentals throughout a changing geopolitical landscape

Tom Moerenhout, Columbia University

In an era of intensifying geopolitical flux, the critical mineral supply chain is a strategic frontier for global powers. This presentation delves into the pivotal role China has established in controlling critical mineral resources, their adeptness in forging international partnerships, and their unmatched dominance in mineral processing. It examines the dynamic interplay of global politics and market forces that shape these mineral supply chains. We will scrutinize the United States’ strategic initiatives to decentralize mineral dependency, fostering local extraction and processing capabilities, while also cultivating alliances to mitigate reliance on Chinese resources. We will discuss the intricate paths and hurdles inherent in diversifying supply chains, and forecast plausible scenarios by 2030. Furthermore, it evaluates the investment landscape necessary to ensure an adequate, responsibly sourced mineral supply that can support the energy transition.