Rare Earth Production Outside China 'Major Milestone'

The rare earths sector is dominated by China, though several countries have significant reserves (Credit: AFP)

An Australian firm's production of a heavy rare earth, a first outside of China, is a "major milestone" in diversifying a critical supply chain dominated by Beijing, experts say.

But the announcement by Lynas Rare Earths also illustrates how much more needs to be done to broaden the supply of elements critical for electric vehicles and renewable technology.