The Future of Manufacturing: China export control on critical minerals

Joined by Stephanie Sun, International Trade Partner in Shanghai, Emerson and Stephanie unpack why these minerals are vital for modern industry and how their applications span clean energy, electronics, medical devices, and military technologies.

Emerson and Stephanie break down which minerals are considered “critical” in the US, EU, and China, highlighting the common goal of securing materials for advanced manufacturing and energy security. Discover how China has become the global leader in processing, refining nearly 91% of the world's supply, and why this dominance matters for supply chains worldwide.

The discussion covers China's strategic approach to export controls, the timeline of recent policy changes, and the impact on countries like the US and EU—especially in the auto and electronics sectors. We also examine the ripple effects of these controls, including supply chain disruptions and the global push for diversification through alternative sources and recycling.

Tune in for expert insights on the intersection of technology, trade, and geopolitics, and learn why critical minerals are at the heart of today's industrial transformation.

Authored by Emerson Holmes and Stephanie Sun.