Cover Story: China’s Hunt for Strategic New Energy Minerals

Chinese companies are scouting the world for mining assets as the country’s booming new energy vehicle industry has boosted demand for lithium, cobalt and nickel -- key metals used in batteries for electric and hybrid vehicles.

However, receding globalization, rising geopolitical conflicts and supply chain restructuring is throwing up road blocks for Chinese firms seeking to invest in overseas mining projects. “Walking on two legs” at home and abroad have become an inevitable choice.