中国造出EUV，美国建立起稀土全产业链，谁会更快?

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the critical role of rare earth elements, particularly medium and heavy rare earths, in the AI supply chain, highlighting China's near-monopoly in this sector and its implications for the global AI economy [1][7][11]. Group 1: Importance of Rare Earths in AI - Rare earths serve as a crucial lever that determines the performance limits and supply stability of AI chips, making them indispensable across various applications from chips to electric motors [1][2]. - A mere 0.1% content of rare earths can significantly impact the global AI supply chain, affecting everything from advanced logic chips to production equipment [2][3]. - The unique atomic properties of rare earths make them essential for enhancing the performance of AI hardware, with their specific electronic configurations allowing precise coupling with semiconductor materials [4][5]. Group 2: China's Dominance in Rare Earth Supply - China controls nearly the entire supply chain of medium and heavy rare earths, from mining to refining and manufacturing components, which is vital for the AI economy [1][7]. - Recent export controls by China on medium and heavy rare earths have further solidified its position, as 12 out of 17 rare earth elements are now subject to these restrictions [7][8]. - The extraction and processing of heavy rare earths are predominantly located in China, with the country holding 98% of the global reserves, making it difficult for other nations to compete [11][15]. Group 3: Challenges for the US and Other Countries - The US has initiated efforts to rebuild its rare earth supply chain but has made slow progress, primarily focusing on light rare earths rather than the more critical medium and heavy rare earths [8][9]. - Despite investments and subsidies, US companies are struggling to achieve profitability in the rare earth sector, with significant technological and economic challenges ahead [8][15]. - The ongoing competition for rare earths is expected to shape the future landscape of the global AI industry, with the race to establish a complete supply chain being a key factor [12][15].