The United States has turned to Australia for the processing of rare earths amid a trade war with China.

US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross will hold meetings in Australia ahead of discussions to develop a “US-Australia Critical Minerals Action Plan” that will improve the security and supply of rare earths which are critical to national security.

China currently controls at least 80 per cent of global trade in rare earths.

Arafura Resources Managing Director Gavin Lockyer says they would need a billion dollars in funding to start processing rare earths.

“We’re ready to go as long as we can get the money.”

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