澳大利亚国库部长：美国想摆脱对中国稀土的依赖，愿效“犬马之劳”

Core Points - Australia is positioning itself as a reliable supplier of rare earth elements to meet the demands of the U.S. and global markets, emphasizing its capability to diversify the supply chain away from China [1][3] - The U.S. government is considering acquiring stakes in Australian rare earth projects as part of a broader strategy to enhance its supply chain resilience against China [3][6] - Recent U.S. actions include significant investments in key mineral producers, indicating a strategic shift to secure essential resources for defense and technology sectors [6][7] Group 1: Australia’s Rare Earth Positioning - Australian Treasury Minister Jim Chalmers stated that Australia can meet rare earth demands and aims to be a reliable supplier for the U.S. and global markets [1] - Australia possesses the world's fourth-largest rare earth deposits and has a long mining history, enhancing its potential as a viable alternative to China [1][3] - Lynas Rare Earth, based in Australia, has begun refining heavy rare earths in Malaysia, marking it as the only heavy rare earth production base outside China [1] Group 2: U.S. Investment Strategy - Reports indicate that the Trump administration is considering acquiring equity in Australian rare earth projects, potentially involving various U.S. government agencies [3] - Over the past few months, the U.S. has initiated similar equity acquisitions in key mineral producers, including MP Materials and Lithium Americas, as part of a strategy to compete with China [3][6] - Australian mining companies have recently met with U.S. officials, indicating interest in U.S. investment in their projects [3] Group 3: Supply Chain Concerns - Chalmers expressed concerns about the reliability and robustness of the critical minerals market, which will be a topic of discussion in upcoming meetings between Australian and U.S. leaders [5] - The U.S. Department of Defense is seeking to procure up to $1 billion in critical minerals to counter China's dominance in the defense manufacturing sector [6] - Recent Chinese export controls on rare earth materials have heightened concerns in the U.S. and Europe regarding access to these essential resources [6][7]