1,500% price increase on some rare earth elements squeezes chipmaking business — Yttrium surge caused by trade war between U.S. and China

The price of Yttrium, a crucial rare earth element for semiconductor manufacturing, has surged by 1,500% in the past year to $126 per kilogram due to the U.S.-China trade war. The trade tensions have led to tariffs and export controls on rare earth materials, impacting the global supply chain. The U.S. and its allies are seeking alternative sources for rare earth metals to reduce dependence on China. Efforts include expanding domestic sources, such as the Mountain Pass project in California, and investing in critical minerals supply chains.