Clash Over Critical Minerals Sparks International Disputes

Disputes between governments and investors over critical mineral resources have reached a decade-long peak, according to law firm DLA Piper. This surge is driven by resource nationalism and escalating competition for essential minerals between the U.S. and China.

The demand for these minerals, crucial for advancing technologies from AI to electric vehicles, has significantly increased the number of arbitration cases. By 2025, 32 disputes have been submitted to the World Bank's arbitration body, surpassing last year's numbers, particularly notable in emerging economies reliant on oil and gas revenue.

Latin America, with 11 cases, stands out as a hotspot for disputes, with Colombia facing the highest count of four cases. This trend is mirrored in regions like Africa, rich in mineral reserves, with ten cases involving countries such as Niger, Tanzania, and the DRC.