Core Viewpoint - The ongoing competition between China and the U.S. over rare earth elements is intensifying, with China leveraging its control over key mineral resources to gain a strategic advantage in the tech rivalry [1][3]. Group 1: U.S. Semiconductor and Rare Earth Challenges - The U.S. semiconductor industry is facing challenges as China's rare earth strategy alters the dynamics of the tech competition [3]. - China's export controls on heavy rare earths have significantly impacted U.S. industrial projects, leading to production halts in various sectors [6][17]. - Experts acknowledge that China's influence in the rare earth market currently surpasses that of the U.S., with a potential decade-long timeline for the U.S. to reduce its dependency on Chinese rare earths [7][19]. Group 2: U.S. Response and Strategic Initiatives - The U.S. government is attempting to establish a complete domestic rare earth supply chain by 2027, but faces significant challenges due to a lack of commercially viable mines and technological gaps [19][21]. - The U.S. is actively seeking partnerships with domestic and international companies to bolster its rare earth capabilities, but the industry is characterized by high investment costs and long cycles [21][27]. Group 3: Implications of Rare Earth Control - The current situation highlights the potential for China to target the U.S. defense supply chain, which relies heavily on specific rare earth elements [23]. - The rare earth export issue has become a focal point in U.S.-China relations, with accusations from U.S. officials regarding China's control over exports [25]. - China has shown willingness to engage in dialogue by suspending export controls on certain U.S. companies, indicating that its rare earth leverage is not fully utilized [27][30]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Recommendations - The article suggests that rare earths should not be used as tools of confrontation, but rather as drivers of technological advancement, advocating for a cooperative approach between the U.S. and China [30]. - It emphasizes the need for the U.S. to recognize interdependence and to rebuild trust in trade relations to stabilize the global supply chain [30].
中国还有筹码没用,美媒点明美国稀土困局,美专家发出严厉警告!
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-06-04 10:05