Malaysia's Rare Earth Deposits Draw Foreign Interest Ahead of China Export Controls
Japan and Western investors seek alternative critical mineral sources as Beijing prepares to enforce restrictions this fall
Every BriefAsia story tagged Critical Minerals, newest first.

Japan and Western investors seek alternative critical mineral sources as Beijing prepares to enforce restrictions this fall

Industry voices question whether multi-billion-dollar data centre projects align with national priorities as brownouts persist and electricity demand outpaces supply

Industry leaders call for closer government coordination to attract investment under new executive order prioritizing strategic mineral assets

Jakarta aims to finalize the IEU-CEPA by October as its preferential access to European markets expires in December, with 90 percent of tariff lines set for elimination.

Canberra positions itself as responsible supplier, but question remains whether buyers will pay premium for cleaner production

Friendshoring strategies and autonomy goals collide as nations struggle to diversify critical mineral supply chains away from Beijing's control

Recent moves at the country's largest mining conglomerate signal a shift toward greater government influence in strategic resource sectors

Jakarta plans a January 2027 start for a Strategic Minerals and Commodities Exchange, but questions remain over product standards, market depth and regulatory framework.

As China Plus One evolves beyond factory diversification, Hanoi is tightening control over 3.5 million tonnes of rare earth reserves and blocking raw exports to capture more value.

Tô Lâm's Canberra meetings with business leaders mark a push to translate the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership into commercial deals across critical sectors.

New executive orders mandate US defense contractors source scandium, tungsten, and rare earths from domestic or allied suppliers, aiming to dismantle decades of Chinese dominance

The world's largest zinc refiner stands to benefit as the Trump administration launches a major push to secure mineral supply chains outside China's orbit.

Washington's $3 billion critical minerals program accelerates shift toward China-free supply chains, positioning Seoul's industrial giants for defense and technology partnerships.

Philippine ambassador argues Pax Silica membership could end raw ore exports and shift value capture onshore, as China buys 92% of the country's nickel at near-dictated rates.

Mountain state pitches critical minerals, aerospace growth, and lighter bureaucracy as Singapore investors expand US footprint beyond traditional hubs

First-half 2026 data reveals Beijing's strategic use of critical minerals as diplomatic pressure intensifies across Asia-Pacific trade corridors

New restrictions on critical mineral waste reflect deepening rivalry with Beijing over supply chain control

US private equity firm pursues critical minerals across the region as governments race to secure supply chains for energy transition

Ottawa pushes food, energy, and critical minerals cooperation as regional surveys rank it near the bottom among dialogue partners

South Korean trading house signs MOU with Australian developer to reduce dependence on single-country sourcing of critical minerals

Washington confronts stark choice between strategic autonomy goals and manufacturing reality as deadline approaches