危险！美国借道第三国，拿到近4000吨关键矿产，中方行动已在路上

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the U.S. circumventing China's export bans on critical minerals by sourcing nearly 4,000 tons of these minerals through third countries, prompting China to initiate a crackdown on smuggling and illegal exports [1][3]. Group 1: U.S. Actions and Strategies - The U.S. has been acquiring significant amounts of antimony oxide from Thailand and Mexico since China banned exports to the U.S., with imports reaching 3,834 tons from December to April, surpassing the total of the previous three years [3][5]. - U.S. companies are collaborating with illegal enterprises in China to mislabel controlled minerals as ordinary ones for export, which are then processed minimally in third countries before entering the U.S. market [3][5]. - The high costs associated with these methods are unsustainable for U.S. companies, as they pay significantly above market prices to maintain the supply of critical minerals essential for high-tech and military industries [5][6]. Group 2: China's Response and Regulatory Measures - In response to the U.S. actions, China has launched a special operation to combat the smuggling of strategic minerals, emphasizing strict scrutiny and regulation of circumvention behaviors [8][9]. - China is monitoring trade data from key transit countries like Thailand and Mexico to identify unusual spikes in exports, which serve as warning signals for potential smuggling activities [9]. - The Chinese government aims to enhance its technological advantages in refining critical minerals and shift from raw material exports to high-value-added processed products [10][11]. Group 3: Long-term Strategies and Industry Implications - The article suggests that addressing the issue requires not only blocking illegal channels but also enhancing regulatory frameworks and technological advancements to maintain control over critical mineral resources [11]. - Strengthening cross-departmental collaboration and developing a long-term mechanism is essential for safeguarding national interests in the critical minerals sector [11].