THE US ‌Geological Survey’s (USGS) updated critical minerals list now encompasses 60 different materials, representing around 80% of all the mined commodities on the periodic table. Many critical minerals are “spice metals” – used in only tiny quantities but with a transformative impact. These are two of the oldest metals used by humans; in combination they defined the Bronze Age. That’s nearly 78% of all US weapons and just five out of 60 critical minerals. The West’s pressing need to escape China’s chokehold on critical minerals supply has thrust these previously obscure elements to the center of world politics.

Source: The Star December 31, 2025 01:39 UTC