专家：中国稀土出口力推民用需求

Core Viewpoint - China's recent adjustments to rare earth export policies aim to prioritize civilian demand, reflecting a commitment to resource protection and sustainable development while taking responsibility for the global supply chain [2][4]. Group 1: Historical Context and Current Policy - From 1990 to 2005, China's rare earth export volume increased nearly tenfold, while prices dropped by 50%, leading to excessive supply and environmental degradation [3]. - The long-term low-price export strategy has created a dependency on Chinese rare earths, with the U.S. and Japan stockpiling resources instead of developing their own [3]. - China's export quotas have been gradually reduced from 6.5 million tons in 2004 to approximately 3.5 million tons post-2010, focusing on ensuring that exports serve legitimate civilian purposes [3][4]. Group 2: Regulatory Framework and Implementation - China has established a strict regulatory system for rare earth exports, including case-by-case reviews of export license applications to ensure the end-use is in civilian sectors like robotics and electric vehicles [3][4]. - A full-process traceability system utilizing blockchain and IoT technology has been implemented to track rare earths from mining to end products, preventing diversion to military applications [3][4]. Group 3: Global Implications and Future Directions - The shift towards civilian-oriented rare earth exports is prompting other countries, such as the U.S. and Australia, to restart domestic mining operations and reduce reliance on Chinese supplies [4]. - China's rare earth industry is transitioning from raw material exports to high-end applications, with domestic companies investing in deep processing to develop high-performance materials [4]. - The adjustment in export policies represents a rebalancing of resources, environment, and development, with China aiming to meet global civilian demand while safeguarding national security [4].