Rare Earth Industry

Rare Earth Industry Challenges and Outlook 2011-2020

Rare Earth elements (REE) are 17 different rare earth elements which are used extensively in a wide variety of applications to make technologies lighter, stronger, more efficient, and easier to use. REEs are used to make super strong permanent magnets that increase the efficiency of wind generators while significantly reducing their weight. They are used extensively in electric vehicles to increase battery capacity and reduce weight, in medicine for small, portable X-ray devices as well as lasers that can treat glaucoma and other conditions.  The United States produced most of the world’s REE up until about 1985, at which time China began to become a major supplier. Today, China produces about 97% of the world’s rare earths. Problems stemming from this (virtually) single source include supply constraints, reduced shipments and export quotas, environmental problems, and rising prices.  There is huge worry from many industry players of potential supply crunch of REE from China.

The report “Global Rare Earth Industry Challenges and Outlook 2011-2020” segments by geography such as North America Europe, Asia-Pacific and rest of World. Market forecasts are provided for each region for the period of 2011 through 2016. Information contained in the report includes market sizes, revenue forecasts, value chain, market & product trends, price trends and regulations.  Potential applications, development trends, environmental issues, government behavior, and business considerations are also reviewed and analyzed.