西方“全村的希望”摇头：认了吧！就该中国主导

Core Viewpoint - The central theme of the conference in Toronto was to discuss how to build a supply chain that does not rely on China, but the CEO of Neo Performance Materials expressed skepticism about this approach, emphasizing that China should continue to play a dominant role in the global rare earth supply chain [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Dynamics - The complexity of the rare earth supply chain is highlighted by three main stages: mining, refining, and magnet manufacturing, with China controlling 91% of rare earth refining, 87% of oxide separation, and 94% of magnet production globally [1]. - Neo Performance Materials has extensive experience in the Chinese market, having taken seven years to master the production of ultra-pure dysprosium in its Chinese facilities, while U.S. companies are starting from scratch [2]. - The CEO noted that China's strong control over the rare earth sector results in lower prices and a greater ability to meet specific customer needs, making it challenging for manufacturers to quickly replace China [2]. Group 2: Company Developments - Neo Performance Materials operates in the chemical and metal sectors with ten production facilities worldwide, including a newly launched magnet factory in Estonia, which has an initial capacity to meet the demand for magnet components for up to 1 million vehicles annually [3]. - The Estonian factory primarily produces neodymium magnets, which are on China's export control list, and its establishment comes in response to China's recent export controls on key minerals [3]. - Neo is expected to be the first Western company to achieve mass production of rare earth materials, which has generated excitement in Canada and the EU [3]. Group 3: Geopolitical Context - The G7 and EU are considering setting a price floor for rare earths and imposing tariffs on certain Chinese rare earth exports as part of their strategy to enhance local production [4]. - Discussions among G7 nations include increasing regulatory barriers for foreign investments in critical minerals to limit corporate investments in China, although there is uncertainty about direct confrontation with China [4]. - The Chinese government has reiterated that its policies regarding rare earths align with international norms and expressed willingness to engage in dialogue to maintain global supply chain stability [4].