China’s 21st century Klondike

Neodymium, Cerium, Lanthanum, Gadolinium are some of the Rare Earth metals used in the manufacture of the latest technology goods, such as hard drives and camera lenses. Demand is increasing as manufacturers increase production and develop new goods and cutting edge technology. Although the USA used to be a main supplier of Rare Earths, many of its mines have now closed and China now supplies 97% of all Rare Earths, a total of 39000 tonnes in 2010.