South-East Asian nations must secure rare earth interests amid great power competition

In recent times global disruptions and uncertainty have raised the prices for these resources and several countries with proven reserves are attempting to profit from windfall, causing many or these countries to scrutinise the involvement of Chinese companies within their borders.

SINGAPORE/KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 29 (Agencies): As the demand for strategic rare earth elements takes on an increasingly prominent geopolitical significance, members of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean) must move to secure their interests.

These states, especially those with proven reserves, must use these resources to benefit themselves and their people and not allow these vital resources to come under the control of belligerent foreign powers seeking to solidify their stranglehold on these elements.