The rare earth sector remains one of the most contentious and exciting spaces within mining. Most recently, Sweden, through its state-owned LKAB mining company, reported a new rare earth discovery that received a ton of media attention.

The EU imports roughly 99% of its rare earths and desperately needs a domestic mine. Furthermore, rare earths are deemed strategic by most governments worldwide due to their irreplaceability in many military applications. But will this discovery move the needle? LKAB mining thinks so, but it may take years for production to commence.

Knowing what it takes to go from exploration to production, Aaron and Alex share their thoughts on this discovery with potential geopolitical consequences.