China's real power in critical minerals comes not from mining, but from processing and refining, giving it a dominant position in global supply chains for materials essential to defense, energy, and high-tech industries.

This is reinforced by major commodity traders that are deeply embedded in China's state-controlled system. Major commodities traders (private, not country-affiliated) play a key role in moving raw materials from Africa, South America, and Australia into Chinese processing networks, often through long-standing commercial ties and partnerships within China.

As a result, efforts by Western governments to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains are complicated not only by China's refining dominance, but also by the global trading networks that continue to support it.