Part 8/12:
For years, cobalt has been a focal point of ethical concerns, given its concentration in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where conditions for miners often come under scrutiny. In a bid to mitigate these risks, Tesla has sought partnerships with mining firms. Meanwhile, global battery supply chains face increasing pressure, with competition for these limited resources intensifying.
This tightrope led to geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, which processes over 80 percent of the world’s rare earth metals. In late 2024, China restricted exports of critical minerals, raising alarms across industries dependent on these resources, including Tesla. As competition heats up, supply chain security becomes paramount for Tesla’s growth in both automotive and energy sectors.