Looming Rare-Earth 'Crisis' Spurs U.S. Supply Push, CEO Says

摘要

U.S. mining companies have been hesitant to wade back into rare earths after a 2011 price collapse, compounding the challenge of cutting the nation's reliance on China for the minerals used in everything from cell phones to fighter jets. Restrictions on Chinese exports of the mineral sent prices of the raw material used in military equipment and home appliances to a record in 2011, encouraging companies to consider investing in new production facilities. Interest in rare-earth projects began to wither as prices tumbled after the Asian nation lifted curbs on shipments, said Jon Blumenthal, the chief executive officer of San Antonio-based Blue Line Corp.