Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam have a sizeable presence in the global REE supply chain – now a geopolitical focal point – but although they may have substantial reserves, their REE production levels are still lower than China's.
Chinese and American firms are seeking to export their autonomous driving technologies to Southeast Asia. The signal lesson is that their data-driven models require sensitivity and adaptation to the region’s diverse markets.
The Trumpian approach to critical minerals – evident from the United States' interactions with Ukraine – may force Southeast Asia to choose sides. The region needs to look at diversifying its technical partners in the energy sector.