Editor's letter

In this issue, we hone in on rare earths, assessing both the US’ and Europe's strategies to counter China’s dominance of the market. More broadly, we track the progress of EU-backed critical mineral projects in Africa as the bloc seeks to secure supply through international investments.

In tech, we look into the slow uptake of bioleaching in copper extraction, as well as the lessons learned from AI-driven electric trucks at China's Yimin coal mine as the mining world digitalises and electrifies.

We also explore Bolivia's shift in lithium policy under a less protectionist president, providing new economic and geopolitical opportunities, for better or for worse. 

In our MINE Australia supplement, we review how local and indigenous communities are emerging as a powerful facet of mineral ownership and deep dive into Australia's iron ore market, examining whether it can change with the times of the evolving global steel market.

Jackie Park, editor-in-chief