ZGXT(SZ:000831) Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-10-21 07:07Core Viewpoint - The global automotive industry is facing significant challenges due to China's export controls on rare earth elements, which are critical for various automotive components, particularly in electric vehicles. This situation raises concerns about potential shortages and production halts in the automotive sector [1][6]. Group 1: Supply Chain Concerns - Automotive executives are worried that China's export restrictions could lead to shortages of essential components and factory shutdowns [1]. - China controls approximately 70% of global rare earth mining, 85% of refining capacity, and about 90% of rare earth metal alloys and magnet production [1]. - The new export control list from China includes elements like yttrium, holmium, and europium, which are also used in automotive manufacturing [2]. Group 2: Inventory and Production Challenges - Suppliers are experiencing tight inventory levels, with some reporting that their products are nearly sold out [2]. - Even if new orders are fulfilled before the export controls take effect, shipping delays could exacerbate supply issues, as it takes about 45 days to transport goods to Europe [5]. - The automotive industry is expected to stockpile rare earth materials before the November 8 deadline, but many companies have already depleted their inventories [6]. Group 3: Industry Adaptation and Innovation - Automakers are actively seeking to reduce their dependence on rare earth elements by developing electric motors with low to zero rare earth content [7]. - Companies like General Motors, ZF, and BorgWarner are working on new motor technologies, while BMW and Renault have already produced rare earth-free motors [7]. - Despite these efforts, industry experts indicate that it will take years for these new technologies to be fully implemented, and the plans to develop new rare earth mines and processing facilities outside China face significant challenges [7]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The U.S. government is reportedly more focused on the threat posed by China's control over rare earth supplies compared to Europe [7]. - Supply chain experts note that China is likely to continue undercutting competitors on price, making it difficult for automakers to justify the higher costs of rare earth-free components [7]. - The ongoing export controls from China are expected to persist, maintaining the country's dominance in the rare earth market [7].