Abstract:

Critical minerals have rapidly moved to the heart of global discussions on energy and economic security. Their indispensable role across several energy technologies as well as other industries of strategic importance such as high-tech manufacturing, AI and digital systems, and aerospace and defence, have underlined the need to enhance the resilience and diversity of their supply chains.

The 2026 edition of the IEA’s annual Global Critical Minerals Outlook includes a detailed assessment of the latest market, investment and technology trends, along with their implications for critical mineral security. The report provides a snapshot of recent industry developments and offers medium- and long-term projections for the supply and demand of key energy minerals, taking into account the latest policy and technology developments. The report also include several areas of special focus: strategic minor minerals with applications beyond energy, nuclear supply chains and the role of Latin America in global mineral supply chains.