Critical minerals have become the new frontline of the rivalry between the world’s two superpowers.

The restrictions have increased more than five-fold in the last decade to a point where 10% of the global value of exports is subject to at least one measure, the OECD says.

NioCorp and L3 have made a breakthrough in niobium and titanium recovery that may result in higher-purity products.

The demonstration plant will process 40,000 tonnes of ilmenite per year, making it the largest of its kind in the world.

Washington’s message at the CERAWeek energy conference in Houston reflects growing concern that the rapid investment it is encouraging to fight climate change could backfire.

NioCorp is developing what would be North America’s only advanced materials manufacturing facility for producing niobium, scandium and titanium.

In 2021, Ontario produced over C$11.1 billion ($8.1bn) worth of minerals.