ZGXT(SZ:000831) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-26 18:51Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the increasing sophistication of rare earth smuggling operations in China, posing significant risks to national security and the economy due to the strategic importance of these resources in military and industrial applications [5][10]. Group 1: Smuggling Operations - A recent inspection at Shenzhen's Yantian Port revealed 25 tons of neodymium-iron-boron magnetic powder disguised as "tile adhesive" [1] - Another case involved 2.3 tons of high-purity rare earth materials, including dysprosium and terbium, hidden within plastic models [3] - Smuggling tactics include mislabeling high-purity rare earths as low-value products and concealing them among legitimate goods [5][7] Group 2: Strategic Importance of Rare Earths - Rare earths are referred to as "industrial gold" due to their irreplaceable military and civilian applications, with China holding over 90% of global medium and heavy rare earth reserves [8][10] - The price of key rare earth elements like dysprosium and terbium has surged by 200% to $3,000 per kilogram since China implemented export controls [10] Group 3: Government Response - In response to smuggling, China has announced export controls on medium and heavy rare earths, effective December 1, 2025, requiring permits for exports containing Chinese-origin rare earths [12] - The government has established advanced traceability systems and upgraded customs inspection methods to combat smuggling [14] Group 4: Security Threats - The article discusses risks related to technology and information theft, including cases of corporate espionage involving rare earth separation technology [16] - New laws have increased penalties for rare earth smuggling, with sentences up to 10 years for serious offenses [18]