Demand for critical minerals surges amid supply challenges; SpaceX's role in space mining gains attention.

The global demand for critical minerals, especially lithium, is rising sharply due to energy transition, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing needs. Supply is constrained by maturing deposits, export restrictions, and concentration in a few countries, causing market vulnerabilities. The 2026 UNCTAD report highlights increased trade controls and domestic processing efforts by producing nations. Meanwhile, space mining, supported by companies like SpaceX, is emerging as a potential future source, focusing initially on lunar water extraction to support space exploration. This development could reshape supply chains and ease terrestrial mineral shortages in the long term.