On a tea cup, the phrase reads: “Procurement Manager, only because full-time multitasking ninja is not an actual job title.” It might sound like a lighthearted joke, but anyone who has worked in or around procurement knows there’s more truth in that sentence than humor.

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a critical group of 17 metallic elements essential to modern technology, renewable energy, and defense industries. Despite their name, they are relatively abundant but often difficult to extract in economically viable concentrations. China dominates the rare earth supply chain, controlling both mining and refining. This article explores the global distribution, demand, major industry players, China’s overseas investments, and efforts to reduce dependence on China.