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Pax Silica and the China-US Critical Minerals Competition
The concept of 'Pax Silica' frames the intensifying strategic competition between China and the United States over critical minerals, including rare earth elements and silicon-based materials essential for semiconductors and clean energy technologies. Control over critical mineral supply chains has emerged as a central axis of geopolitical rivalry, with both nations pursuing dominance through mining rights, trade policy, export controls, and international partnerships. The competition has signif