Amid escalating geopolitical tensions and the intensification of trade tariffs, MP Materials $MP – the only major U.S. operator of a rare earth metals deposit – is facing significant operational changes. The company recently halted shipments of critical minerals to China for further processing amid Beijing’s decision to raise import tariffs to 125% in response to U.S. duties. This move comes at a crucial time, as MP Materials had long relied on Chinese partners to scale up production in California.