为何稀土不卖高价？在下一盘更大的棋

Core Viewpoint - China holds a dominant position in the global rare earth industry, primarily due to its unique capabilities in high-purity extraction technology, which is not yet matched by other countries [1][2][6]. Group 1: China's Dominance in Rare Earths - China is not only the largest holder of rare earth reserves but also the only country with the technology for high-purity extraction, making it a critical player in the global supply chain [1][6]. - Other countries, such as Ukraine, may have rare earth resources, but they lack the necessary processing capabilities to compete with China [1][2]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Competition - The U.S. has historically imported rare earth materials worth only a few hundred million dollars annually, indicating a low profit margin in this market [3]. - If the U.S. were to develop its own production capabilities, it could lead to price wars that would challenge existing supply chains [4][5]. Group 3: Strategic Considerations - The U.S. faces internal political challenges that complicate the establishment of a state-owned rare earth enterprise, which could hinder its ability to compete effectively [5]. - China's strategy involves maintaining low prices for rare earth products to prevent competitors from gaining a foothold in the market [8][9]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The current market conditions suggest that it is not yet the right time for China to significantly increase the profitability of rare earths, as the industry is still in a competitive phase [16].