Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-05-24 07:02Core Viewpoint - China is accelerating the integration and control of rare earth exports to safeguard national security, prompting concerns from Western countries and even Russia and India, which are now collaborating to challenge China's dominance in the rare earth sector [1][5]. Group 1: Russia and India's Collaboration - Russia and India have reached an agreement to enhance technical cooperation in the field of rare earth and strategic metals, focusing on the development of processing and extraction technologies to ensure supply for their industries and reduce dependence on external sources [3]. - Despite having significant rare earth reserves (3.8 million tons for Russia and 6.9 million tons for India), both countries heavily rely on China for downstream processing technologies [5]. Group 2: China's Strategic Moves - China Rare Earth Group and China National New Group have signed a strategic agreement, indicating increased state capital involvement in the rare earth sector, which will provide strong financial and asset management support for future expansions [7]. - Chinese rare earth companies are accelerating overseas integration by acquiring Australian-listed rare earth company PEK and its associated Tanzanian and UK assets, marking a significant step in consolidating the rare earth supply chain [9]. - The Baotou Rare Earth Research Institute has announced the development of magnetic refrigeration technology in the rare earth field, indicating a surge in new technologies that strengthen China's patent monopoly in the international rare earth market [9]. Group 3: Challenges for Other Countries - While other countries seek to reduce reliance on China, the rare earth sector is characterized by long-term returns, making it difficult for latecomers to catch up as long as China maintains its competitive edge [11]. - There is a concern about internal security within China's rare earth sector, emphasizing the need for strict controls to prevent leaks that could undermine national interests [11].