China’s newest restrictions on rare-earth materials would mark a nearly unprecedented export control that stands to disrupt the global economy, giving Beijing more leverage in trade negotiations.

I have posted notes on RE’s used in magnets that drive hydraulic pistons in tubes which control flaps, ailerons, and rudders of fighter jets.

These are tiny very powerful permanent magnets.

The control surfaces must move fast and strong.

Human want nations = air power = ground power = borders = nation.

So some RE’s really do matter.