UK Unveils Bold 2025 Strategy to Slash Foreign Rare Earth Dependence Amid Global Supply Risks

• What’s the UK’s Plan to Tackle Rare Earth Dependence?
• Why Is This Strategy Launching Now?
• Industry Reactions: A Warm Welcome with Caveats
• The Bigger Picture: AI, Defense, and Green Tech at Stake
• FAQs: UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy

The UK government has rolled out an ambitious plan to reduce its reliance on foreign critical minerals, particularly rare earth elements, by 2035. Backed by £50 million in funding, the strategy aims to diversify supply chains, boost domestic production, and ramp up recycling efforts—a MOVE seen as vital for national security and economic resilience. Here’s a deep dive into the plan and why it matters now.

What’s the UK’s Plan to Tackle Rare Earth Dependence?

The UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy, announced on November 22, 2025, sets a clear target: no more than 60% of the country’s supply for any critical mineral should come from a single nation by 2035. Currently, the UK produces just 6% of its critical mineral needs domestically, making this a significant leap. The plan allocates 10% of future supply to homegrown production and 20% to recycling, with lithium, nickel, tungsten, and rare earths as top priorities. For context, the UK aims to produce at least 50,000 tons of lithium domestically by 2035—a key metal for EVs and renewable tech.

Why Is This Strategy Launching Now?

China’s stranglehold on critical minerals—70% of global rare earth mining and 90% of refining—has left supply chains vulnerable to price swings and geopolitical tensions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called these minerals "the backbone of modern life and national security," emphasizing the need to shield the UK economy. With copper demand projected to double and lithium needs soaring 1,100% by 2035, the clock is ticking. The £50 million investment will accelerate domestic projects, from mining to processing, ensuring the UK isn’t left behind in the global race.

Industry Reactions: A Warm Welcome with Caveats

Tim Harrison of Ionic Rare Earths praised the strategy as a "thunderous message" about critical minerals’ role in growth and security. Meanwhile, Professor Allan Walton highlighted the UK’s strengths in recycling and intermediate processing, particularly for rare earths. However, skeptics question whether the 2035 targets are achievable given the current infrastructure gaps.

The Bigger Picture: AI, Defense, and Green Tech at Stake

Beyond smartphones and EVs, these minerals are vital for AI data centers and military hardware. As Darren Poland of Vale Base Metals noted, "We’ve relied on too few sources for too long." The strategy’s success hinges on scaling recycling tech and securing partnerships with allied nations—a complex but necessary gamble.

FAQs: UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy

What minerals are prioritized in the UK’s plan?

Lithium, nickel, tungsten, and rare earth elements top the list due to their roles in EVs, renewables, and defense tech.

How much funding is allocated?

The government has committed £50 million to boost domestic production and recycling initiatives.

What’s China’s current role in critical minerals?

China controls 70% of rare earth mining and 90% of refining globally, creating supply chain vulnerabilities.