China’s Nuclear Expansion Faces Uranium Supply Risks Amid US Competition

Heavy reliance on imported uranium could challenge Beijing’s nuclear goals as Washington moves to reshape global supply chains.

The Qinshan nuclear power plant in Haiyan, Zhejiang Province, China, on June 2, 2010. STR/AFP via Getty Images

Analysis

China is betting big on nuclear power to fuel its next phase of economic growth and geopolitical competition. However, the ruling communist regime’s heavy reliance on imported uranium could complicate those ambitions as the United States moves to reshape global supply chains.