How China Proved It Can Shut Down Global Auto Production

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China dominates the world‘s production and processing of rare earth elements, which are used in all kinds of things: sports equipment, national defense, and each of the roughly 16 million cars sold in the US every year. Over the last few years, the Asian country has been tightening access and suddenly restricted exports in early April 2025. The move sent shockwaves through the auto industry which can’t build cars without these minerals. CNBC Dove in to see how we got here, and how the auto industry might find its way out. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:47 Chapter 1: Rare earth elements 03:17 Chapter 2: A global powerhouse 05:28 Chapter 3: Relief 07:33 Chapter 4: Solutions Producer: Robert Ferris Editor: Darren Geeter Animation: Emily Park, Mithra Krishnan Senior Managing Producer: Tala Hadavi Additional footage: Getty Images, Toyota » Subscribe to CNBC: » Subscribe to CNBC TV: » Watch CNBC on the go with CNBC+: About CNBC: From 'Wall Street' to 'Main Street' to award winning original documentaries and Reality TV series, CNBC has you covered. Experience special sneak peeks of your favorite shows, exclusive video and more. Do you want to buy a home but don’t know where to begin? Take CNBC’s new online course How to Buy Your First Home. Register today and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $97 (+taxes and fees) through July 15, 2025: Connect with CNBC News Online Get the latest news: Follow CNBC on LinkedIn: Follow CNBC News on Ins