Story perspectives

China's Rare Earth Curbs Disrupt US Aerospace and Tech

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

China's export restrictions on rare earths, especially yttrium and scandium, create supply shortages for US aerospace and semiconductor industries.
Some suppliers have turned away clients as shipments to the United States remain low after a partial easing of tensions.
Yttrium imports dropped from 333 tonnes to 17 tonnes following the curbs.
China accounts for over 60% of global rare earth production and 90% of processing capacity, complicating U.S. supply diversification.

1 of 1

Story summary

China's export restrictions on rare earths, especially yttrium and scandium, create supply shortages for US aerospace and semiconductor industries.
Some suppliers have turned away clients as shipments to the United States remain low after a partial easing of tensions.
Yttrium imports dropped from 333 tonnes to 17 tonnes following the curbs.
China accounts for over 60% of global rare earth production and 90% of processing capacity, complicating U.S. supply diversification.