中国发布禁令，这2国钻空子！3834吨稀土转运美国，中方做了个29年来的重大决定

Core Insights - China has initiated a special operation named "Shield" to combat the illegal outflow of strategic minerals, marking a significant enforcement action against smuggling activities [1] - The new Mineral Resources Law, effective from July 1, 2025, represents a comprehensive revision aimed at addressing key issues in mineral exploration and extraction, enhancing the legal framework for resource management [3][5] Group 1: Enforcement Actions - The operation "Shield" involved customs authorities intercepting a cargo ship carrying antimony ingots disguised as industrial raw materials, highlighting China's commitment to curbing illegal mineral exports [1] - Trade data revealed that Thailand and Mexico exported 3,834 tons of antimony oxide to the U.S. within a few months, surpassing the total from the previous three years, indicating a surge in smuggling activities [1] Group 2: Legislative Changes - The revised Mineral Resources Law introduces a direct acquisition system for mining rights, resolving the challenges faced by explorers in transitioning to mining operations [3] - The law mandates that all mining operations must adhere to an ecological restoration principle, linking mining permits to the responsibility of land rehabilitation [5] Group 3: Strategic Implications - The U.S. has been actively seeking to reduce its dependence on Chinese rare earths through initiatives like the "Critical Minerals Initiative," which aims to create alternative supply chains [3] - The legal reforms in China signal a shift in the perception of strategic minerals from ordinary commodities to critical assets in national security and international competition [7]