Dear Editor,

The recent revelation by Minister Phillip Paulwell regarding the possibility that Jamaica could mine rare earth elements is indeed a significant announcement. Rare earth elements are a strategic commodity used in small quantities to manufacture specialised parts vital to almost all modern technology, with continuously growing use and significance.

China currently has more than 90 per cent of global production and continues to maintain and increase its lead in global competitiveness in manufacturing.

These rare earth elements make up a significant part of every country's expenditure as they are used in everything from credit card magnet strips, and growing wind energy innovation, to hybrid car engines and smartphones. So, as the world sends BB and Whatsapp messages to each other, we Jamaicans could be making millions.

If the rare earth elements reserves are real, then anyone who understands the current dire need for the growth of our GDP ought then to support our engagement in this area. In addition, the geopolitical aspects of this venture greatly increase its appeal.

Japan desperately needs rare earth elements to cut into China's control of the market and subsequently regain its pride of place in world economic leadership. With the presence of rare earth elements in Jamaica, we could suddenly become important players.

The high tension existing between Japan and China at this time drives Japan's need to "play ball" with anyone who has economically viable reserves. The ball seems divinely to have been suddenly "thrown" in Jamaica's court. But do we have the negotiating cojones?

Our negotiators must insist that the production machinery and necessary infrastructure be installed in Jamaica. We must demand that Jamaican people be trained in the operation. We must ensure equity in the production and management of this precious resource.

Strict environmental policing must be ensured and led by Jamaica. Our demands would not be unreasonable, because Japan would be entering the industry with a very high-quality raw material (meaning high efficiency and reduced chemical reactant costs), and from an ideal geographic location for global distribution.

Jovaun Lawson

jovaunlaw@gmail.com