Copper prices have surged to record highs this year, sparking a global scramble to secure supplies of the essential industrial metal. But the real frenzy is happening in the race for the critical minerals that will power the clean energy transition.
According to Reuters, copper prices rose sharply this week as the market assessed mounting risks to global supply. "Copper prices climbed on a weaker dollar and concerns over tight supply," the news agency reported. Analysts say the supply crunch is being driven by strong demand, particularly from the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors.
The Lithium Landgrab
The surge in copper has been mirrored in the lithium market, where prices have skyrocketed over 300% in the past year. As Bloomberg reported, "Lithium surges in China after local authorities announce plan to revoke mining licenses." This move by Chinese regulators is the latest salvo in the global race to lock up supplies of the key battery metal.
"The world needs a lot more copper. But will there be enough supply?" the Wall Street Journal asked in a recent headline. Major mining companies are pouring billions into new copper projects, but experts warn that it may not be enough to meet the exploding demand, especially as the energy transition accelerates.
Rare Earths Ramp Up
The scramble for critical minerals extends beyond just copper and lithium. As the Financial Times reported, the U.S. is backing a $7.4 billion smelter project to process rare earth elements, a group of 17 metals essential for technologies like electric vehicles, wind turbines, and military hardware.
"Silicon Valley is racing to make critical minerals—and blunt China's dominance," the Wall Street Journal noted, highlighting the geopolitical importance of securing supply chains for these key materials.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, industry analysts expect the demand for critical minerals to only intensify in the coming years. As the Wall Street Journal put it, "The World Needs a Lot More Copper. But Will There Be Enough Supply?"
To meet this challenge, mining companies are pouring billions into new projects, while governments are stepping up efforts to diversify supply chains and reduce reliance on dominant producers like China. The race is on to unlock new sources of the critical minerals that will power the green economy.
Reporting based on coverage from Reuters, Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and the Financial Times, December 17-18, 2025.