大批稀土被转运美国，两个“帮凶”浮出水面，商务部火速出手反制

Core Insights - The article highlights the unusual surge in antimony oxide imports to the U.S. from Thailand and Mexico, amounting to over 3,800 tons, which is equivalent to the total imports for the years 2022 to 2024 [1] - The sudden rise of Thailand and Mexico as major buyers of antimony raises concerns about the integrity of international supply chains and the potential for illicit trade practices [1][3] - The U.S. companies are reportedly engaging in deceptive practices by rebranding Chinese-sourced gallium and shipping it through Southeast Asia, which undermines established trade regulations [1][5] Group 1 - The significant increase in antimony oxide imports from Thailand and Mexico is alarming, as these countries lack the necessary mining and refining capabilities [1][3] - The U.S. imports of antimony oxide from these countries halved in April 2025, coinciding with China's enhanced export controls amid the U.S.-China tariff war [3] - China's swift response to the illegal outflow of strategic resources includes a crackdown on smuggling and misreporting, initiated shortly after the drop in U.S. imports [3][5] Group 2 - The strategic competition between the U.S. and China is underscored by the U.S. efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese rare earths while simultaneously utilizing gray market channels to acquire these resources [5][7] - The illegal export of 3,834 tons of strategic minerals poses significant economic and national security risks, prompting China to enforce strict penalties against violators [5][7] - China's actions in response to the illicit trade serve as a model for maintaining integrity in international trade, emphasizing the importance of rules and transparency [7]