打破中国主导格局？马来西亚重稀土量产，加拿大稀土纯度超过99.9%

Core Viewpoint - The global rare earth supply chain is undergoing transformation, with Western countries attempting to establish a supply chain independent of China, but facing significant technological and capacity barriers posed by China's dominance in the industry [1][4]. Group 1: Global Rare Earth Supply Chain Developments - In May 2025, Lynas Corporation in Malaysia successfully unloaded 15 tons of dysprosium oxide, marking it as the first non-Chinese heavy rare earth separator, which was celebrated by Western media and governments [3][10]. - The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) in Canada achieved a breakthrough in high-purity rare earth metal production, with purity levels exceeding 99.9%, indicating a shift in the global rare earth supply chain [3][7]. Group 2: China's Dominance and Strategic Position - China has maintained a near-monopoly on the global rare earth supply chain, accounting for approximately 90% of the market, with heavy rare earth separation capacity at 99% [4][6]. - The introduction of the 2024 Rare Earth Management Regulations in China further emphasizes the country's control over key rare earth exports, reflecting growing concerns over supply security in Western nations [6][15]. Group 3: North American and Southeast Asian Initiatives - The SRC in Canada is positioned as a leader in North American rare earth technology, with plans to produce 400 tons of praseodymium-neodymium metal annually, sufficient for 500,000 electric vehicles [9][10]. - Lynas's facility in Malaysia plans to start producing terbium oxide, with an annual capacity of 1,500 tons of mixed rare earth compounds, which has garnered contracts from major companies including Tesla and the U.S. Department of Defense [10][12]. Group 4: Challenges Faced by Western Players - Western rare earth supply chains face significant challenges, including lower purity levels compared to Chinese counterparts, with Lynas achieving only 99.95% purity compared to China's 99.999% [13][15]. - Cost competitiveness is a critical issue, as Lynas's production costs are significantly higher than those of Chinese producers, with costs reaching $15 per kilogram compared to $4 to $7 in China [10][12]. Group 5: Future Outlook and Strategic Responses - China is enhancing its technological capabilities and resource management strategies, including the development of electric mining technologies and the establishment of a "BRICS Rare Earth Alliance" to increase production capacity [15][16]. - The future of global rare earth competition will focus on purity enhancement, carbon reduction technologies, and the resilience of supply chains amid geopolitical tensions [15][16].