The Wall Street Journal looks at the ways that surging copper demand is driving mining mergers and deals, as the world becomes more concerned that demand will soon exceed supply.

Following up on a minerals deal signed between Australia and the US in October, representatives from Australia will join other allies in Washington this week to brief them on plans for its critical minerals strategic reserve, which will initially prioritize shoring up supplies of antimony, gallium and rare earth elements to meet the needs of makers of fighter jets, semiconductors and other technologies.

In related news, the US is hosting a gathering of G-7 ministers to discuss rare earths this week, underscoring the shared push to develop alternative supplies in an industry dominated by China.

In addition to Australia, the discussions are expected to include officials from Canada, South Korea, India, Mexico, the European Union and Japan, and focus on critical raw materials and the security of global supply chains.