How could quantum computing reduce U.S. reliance on China for rare earths?

A CEO said quantum computing could help reduce reliance, but the excerpt does not provide details on the specific methods or applications.

Why are rare earths important to the United States?

The excerpt frames rare earths as a supply-chain issue tied to U.S. reliance on China, though it does not detail their specific uses.

Who made the claim about quantum computing and rare earths?

The excerpt identifies the speaker only as a CEO and does not name the individual or company.

Quantum computing could help US reduce reliance on China for rare earths, CEO says

A CEO said quantum computing could help the United States reduce its dependence on China for rare earth materials. The claim highlights a potential technology-driven approach to addressing supply-chain concerns around critical minerals.

Fox Business

Publisher

Sep 26, 2026 at 12:40 AM UTC · 1 分钟阅读

Quantum computing could help the United States reduce its reliance on China for rare earth materials, according to a CEO cited by Fox Business. The comments point to a potential use of quantum technology in improving how critical minerals are discovered, processed and used in advanced manufacturing.

Rare earth elements are a group of materials used in products including electronics, magnets and other high-tech equipment. They are considered strategically important because supply chains for mining, refining and manufacturing can be concentrated in a small number of countries.

Quantum computers are designed to handle certain complex calculations differently from conventional computers. In materials science, researchers and companies are exploring whether the technology can improve simulations of molecules and materials, potentially accelerating the search for alternatives or more efficient production methods.

The prospect matters for U.S. supply-chain policy, which has increasingly focused on securing access to critical minerals and reducing vulnerabilities in strategically important industries. Any practical impact from quantum computing would depend on the technology becoming capable of solving relevant industrial-scale problems.