中国稀土资源骤减，牺牲环境低价出口，将来百倍价格也难以买回

Core Viewpoint - Rare earth resources play a crucial role in global competition, with China holding approximately 37% of global rare earth reserves and supplying over 90% of the world's demand. However, the extraction of these resources has significant environmental impacts, and China's reserves are depleting, raising concerns about future availability and pricing [6][11][15]. Group 1: Importance of Rare Earth Elements - Rare earth elements are extremely rare and have complex extraction processes, making them valuable. There are 17 important rare earth metals, and only about 10 are suitable for modern smelting conditions [7][9]. - The extraction technology for rare earths has matured over the years, with elements categorized into light and heavy rare earths based on their atomic structure and properties [8]. Group 2: China's Rare Earth Production and Challenges - China has historically dominated rare earth production, but its share of global reserves has decreased from 71.1% to 23% due to over-extraction, leading to a potential future shortage [11][15]. - The unrestricted extraction has led to artificially low export prices, with foreign companies manipulating the market, causing domestic suppliers to engage in unhealthy competition [12]. Group 3: Global Demand and Strategic Importance - The United States faces a significant shortfall in rare earth resources, producing less than half of China's output, which raises concerns about its technological and military capabilities [13]. - Rare earths are essential in various applications, including military technology, electronics, and renewable energy, highlighting their strategic importance [17][19]. Group 4: Future Considerations and Sustainability - Experts predict that by 2040, China may need to import rare earths, leading to potential price surges and scarcity [15]. - There is a pressing need for China to manage its rare earth resources sustainably, avoiding over-exploitation and ensuring long-term availability for future technological advancements [21].