In June 2026, Spain revealed a rare-earth deposit capable of meeting 33% of Europe’s needs. Now, the find could challenge China’s grip on critical minerals and strengthen continent’s push for mineral independence

A rare-earth deposit identified in Campo de Montiel, central Spain, could become an important source of materials for Europe’s electric vehicles, wind turbines, electronics and other technologies. Quantum Minería estimates the resource could produce around 2,300 U.S. tons of rare-earth materials annually, potentially covering up to one-third of European needs. The discovery comes as the EU seeks greater control over critical mineral supply chains and faces heavy dependence on China for rare-earth processing.