TOKYO -- Rare earth spot prices are on the rise as China, the top producer and exporter of the metals, moves to crack down on illegal mining and enforce environmental rules.
Further boost expected as country cracks down on illegal mining

China produces about 80% of the world's rare earth supplies.
TOKYO -- Rare earth spot prices are on the rise as China, the top producer and exporter of the metals, moves to crack down on illegal mining and enforce environmental rules.