Beijing — A group of Chinese firms have jointly established a rare-earths innovation centre in the country’s Hebei province as part of a plan to develop a manufacturing base in the region, according to the local government hosting the project.

The move comes amid speculation that China, the world’s dominant rare-earths producer, may use its control over supply of the group of 17 prized minerals — used in everything from consumer electronics to military equipment — as leverage in its trade conflict with the US...

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.