Popular Mechanics has a great look at the re-emergence of rare earth metal mining in the United States, at a previously decommissioned mine in California.  Given China's dominance of the industry, and the ever growing importance of the materials in all manner of electronics manufacturing applications, it would seem prudent for the US to make sure this venture succeeds.  Fortunately, there are other mines in the development pipeline as well.  But letting China control a critical industry via state-sanctioned price control should be met with the full resistance of US governmental and business interests.