but not its influence over the sector.

Comments from TREM's David Abraham on the role of smuggling in the rare earth market.

“Supply chains for oil, natural gas and coal will remain vital, but as a large number of comparatively minor materials become increasingly important, pressure on their suppliers will become greater as a result.”

Joint green initiatives in China like one with GM could quickly lead to new breakthroughs. And thus a new demand for rare metals.

Cuts in production have yet to rally market prices of rare earths, but may have provided a floor. China's top 6 miners set to produce 10 pct less this year.