China's global control over rare earth metals was a strategic goal since the 1990s

China's recent export controls on rare earth minerals highlight its long-standing strategy to dominate the global market for these critical materials, a goal it has pursued since the 1990s. This move not only underscores China's significant influence in the rare earth sector but also serves as a key tactic in its ongoing trade conflict with the United States. As these materials are essential for various high-tech industries, this development could have far-reaching implications for global supply chains and international relations.