Rare Earths - used in key technologies from iPhones to fighter jets - are becoming increasingly important, with China controlling around 70% of the world's production. 

Now, countries are racing to mine rare earths within one year, before China’s export restrictions kick in. In October 2025, China announced restrictions on rare earth exports, and also on the technology used to process them. The move set off panic amongst US carmakers and defence manufacturers.

China agreed to pause these restrictions for a year after the Trump-Xi meeting, but the vulnerability remains.

The US had inked rare earth deals with Japan, Australia, Malaysia and Thailand amongst others. Europe and the G7 have also announced rare earth industrial plans.

But can they complete mine to magnet operations in just one year? With billions pouring into rare earths in the months ahead, is China at risk of losing its grip on the rare earths industry?

With exclusive access across the US and China, the latest special in the award-winning When Titans Clash series goes behind the headlines to investigate this crucial international power struggle.