Key facts
- A race to dig rare earths and metals is occurring in eastern Myanmar.
- Waterways downstream are reportedly being polluted.
- A new tungsten mine has reportedly begun operations near the Thai border.
- Myanmar is a top producer of rare earths and critical minerals.
A surge in demand for rare earths and metals, crucial for products like smartphones and electric vehicles, has led to a mining race in the mineral-rich mountains of eastern Myanmar. Environmental groups report that this activity is polluting waterways relied upon by millions of people downstream. The concerns have intensified following reports of a new tungsten mine commencing operations near the Thai border. Myanmar is recognized as one of the top three global producers of rare earths and other critical minerals.