Solvay of Belgium Creates Rare Earths Deals With U.S.

On November 12, 2025, Solvay, a Belgian chemical company, announced it had signed two contracts to export rare earths to the United States, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for resource independence from China. This development illustrates Europe's lagging position compared to the U.S. in the race to reduce reliance on Chinese rare earths, which are essential for various high-tech applications. Solvay operates a rare earths processing plant in La Rochelle, France, which will facilitate these exports. The contracts reflect a broader geopolitical competition, as nations seek to secure their supply chains and reduce vulnerabilities associated with dependence on a single country for critical materials.