ZGXT(SZ:000831) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-07-13 05:34Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing "transshipment game" that the U.S. is playing to circumvent China's export controls on rare earth elements, particularly gallium, germanium, and antimony, which are critical for military applications like the F-35 fighter jet [1][2]. Group 1: U.S. Dependence on Rare Earths - The U.S. military heavily relies on rare earth materials, with 83.7% of its supply coming from China, particularly for advanced weaponry like the F-35 [1][2]. - Following China's export controls announced in July 2023, the U.S. faced a potential shortage of these critical materials, prompting the Pentagon to initiate stockpiling measures [2]. Group 2: Transshipment Channels - The U.S. has turned to Thailand and Mexico as primary channels for importing antimony oxide, with imports from these countries reaching 3,834 tons from December 2023 to April 2024, surpassing the total from the previous three years [1][2]. - U.S. companies are utilizing "small batch, multiple shipments" methods to mix rare earths with other goods, effectively bypassing Chinese export controls [2]. Group 3: Price Dynamics and Smuggling - The price of gallium has doubled since the implementation of China's export controls, creating a lucrative market for smugglers [3]. - Chinese companies have demonstrated creativity in circumventing regulations, with reports of approximately 200 kilograms of gallium being smuggled monthly disguised as other metals [3]. Group 4: China's Response - In response to the outflow of rare earth resources, China has initiated a crackdown on smuggling activities and introduced a new export licensing system requiring detailed transaction records [3]. - China is also considering countermeasures against third-party countries involved in transshipment, potentially mirroring U.S. practices in Southeast Asia [3]. Group 5: Long-term Implications - Despite the short-term relief provided by transshipment methods, the U.S. remains vulnerable to supply chain disruptions if China tightens its export controls further [5]. - China's dominance in rare earth refining technology, holding over 90% of the global market share and having production costs significantly lower than U.S. firms, poses a long-term challenge for U.S. military supply chains [5].