IEA Warns of Energy Security Risks Due to Dependence on Critical Minerals from China, Highlights Türkiye's Potential
The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, warned that reliance on a single country for critical minerals poses significant risks to global energy security, potentially leading to tensions by 2026. China dominates the critical minerals market with a 70% to 80% share.
Birol noted that Türkiye has opportunities to diversify supply chains due to its mineral reserves and energy sector experience. The IEA's Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2025 indicates China leads in refining 19 out of 20 strategic minerals.
Türkiye aims to be among the top five producers of rare earth elements, with significant deposits at the Beylikova site. Birol highlighted the LNG market's transition to a buyer's market, benefiting countries like Türkiye. He also pointed out the need for improved electricity transmission infrastructure to support renewable energy growth, and emphasized Türkiye's role in hosting COP31 in 2026, advocating for heightened climate action.
