From electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, to satellites, rare earth elements are the bedrock of the technologies that define modern life.

Many people touch aluminium every single day: when opening a can, cooking with foil, driving a car or even plugging in a laptop. But few realise the huge amount of energy required to produce it.

Despite geopolitical tensions and environmental concerns, some nations continue to leverage their natural wealth to fuel development and global trade. As usual, some countries stand out for their share and possession of these natural resources.