In an article published on July 20, 2026, FOCUS Online examines Western efforts to reduce dependence on China for rare earths. The publication draws on TRADIUM’s latest quarterly report on developments in the raw materials markets. According to the report, France is considered a key source of hope in Europe for the processing and recycling of rare earths. By contrast, options for substituting individual rare earth elements have so far shown limited promise. The article also includes expert assessments from TRADIUM’s Matthias Rüth and Brian Hendrich.