中国稀土王牌要失效？美国阴谋要得逞了？

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. is exploring partnerships with Myanmar to secure rare earth resources, aiming to reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates 92% of global rare earth refining capacity [1][2]. Group 1: U.S. Interest in Myanmar - The U.S. is considering two proposals regarding rare earth mining in Myanmar: one to collaborate with the Myanmar government and another to work with the Kachin Independence Army [1]. - Myanmar's rare earth production has surged from 200 tons in 2014 to 31,000 tons in 2020, accounting for 7.9% of global output [2]. Group 2: Challenges Faced by the U.S. - Geographic challenges include difficult terrain in Kachin State, where mining resources are located, making transportation risky and costly [4]. - The U.S. lacks the necessary technology for refining rare earth materials, having not developed its refining capabilities for over 30 years [4][6]. - The absence of a complete rare earth industry chain in the U.S. poses significant hurdles, as it requires specialized equipment, technology, and talent that the U.S. currently lacks [6]. Group 3: Implications of U.S. Strategy - Recent U.S.-China trade talks highlighted the importance of rare earths, with China demonstrating its control over the supply chain through export restrictions [8]. - If the U.S. successfully mines rare earths in Myanmar, it will still face the challenge of processing these materials into high-end products, which currently relies on Chinese technology [8][9]. - Experts estimate that rebuilding a rare earth industry chain in the U.S. could take at least ten years, making immediate changes to the supply chain unlikely [9].