JLMI – Call for Papers – Issue No. 1/2027

Key Takeaways

• JLMI’s first issue tackles critical minerals as strategic, not ordinary, goods
• Trade defence tools are being repurposed to secure supply‑chain resilience
• Energy‑security concerns drive tighter export controls on raw material flows
• Scholars can influence policy by analysing treatification and unilateral measures
• Deadline for full‑paper submissions is 20 July 2026, with review results by 10 Sept 2026

Pulse Analysis

The upcoming JLMI issue arrives at a pivotal moment as nations grapple with the dual pressures of energy security and climate ambition. By treating critical raw materials—such as rare earths, lithium, and cobalt—as strategic assets, policymakers are reshaping traditional trade instruments. Export controls, local‑content rules, and subsidy schemes are increasingly justified under the banner of national security, blurring the line between legitimate protection and covert protectionism. This shift has profound implications for multinational corporations that rely on these inputs for batteries, renewable technologies, and advanced manufacturing.

For businesses, the securitisation of supply chains signals a need to reassess sourcing strategies and contractual frameworks. Companies may face new compliance burdens, including traceability mandates and mandatory disclosures about the origin of critical inputs. At the same time, firms that can demonstrate resilient, transparent supply chains could gain a competitive edge, attracting government incentives and mitigating the risk of sudden trade restrictions. Legal scholars contributing to JLMI will help clarify how these emerging regulations intersect with existing international trade law, offering guidance on navigating the evolving landscape.

From an investment perspective, the focus on critical minerals is likely to accelerate capital flows into mining projects, recycling technologies, and alternative material research. However, heightened geopolitical scrutiny could also introduce volatility, as states may impose unilateral measures or renegotiate existing agreements. The JLMI call for papers invites experts to dissect these dynamics, providing policymakers, industry leaders, and investors with evidence‑based insights that can inform strategic decisions in a rapidly changing global market.