The Increased Strategic Role of Rare-Earth Metals

30 September 2025

Author information:

Norbert Szőcs https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4448-0667: Magyar Nemzeti Bank, Analyst. E-mail:

Abstract:

This feature article guides the reader through the process by which rare-earth metals have become a geopolitical and economic weapon. Their strategic importance stems from their use, as the last decade has seen the proliferation of smart devices and the technological innovations that go with them, with rare-earth metals at their core. Due to today’s increasingly severe international trade restrictions, a country with an abundance of rare-earth metals can start from a better bargaining position. I discuss where the global race for rare-earth metals is heading and which countries can benefit the most in the coming years.

Cite as (APA):

Szőcs, N. (2025). The Increased Strategic Role of Rare-Earth Metals. Financial and Economic Review, 24(3), 123–136. https://hitelintezetiszemle.mnb.hu/en/fer-24-3-fa1-szocs

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Column:

Feature Article - Challenges of the 21st Century

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