Geography of critical minerals for AI technology development

China dominates the market for critical minerals essential for artificial intelligence technologies, controlling 99% of global refined gallium production and supplying 69.2% of rare earth metals. The Democratic Republic of the Congo leads in tantalum supply, accounting for 52% of global production, with Rwanda and Nigeria as other key producers. These elements are crucial for manufacturing high-performance semiconductors, powerful magnets, and other components necessary for modern AI systems.