稀土王牌失效了？法日开建的全球最大稀土工厂，外媒：有三大死穴

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Caremag rare earth recycling and refining plant by France and Japan is seen as a significant move to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earth resources, but it faces substantial challenges in terms of cost, technology, and raw material supply [2][15][18]. Investment and Financial Aspects - The total investment for the Caremag plant is €216 million, with the French government contributing €106 million through various programs and tax incentives, while Japan's JOGMEC and Iwatani invested €110 million [3][5]. - The plant aims to process 2,000 tons of waste magnets and 5,000 tons of ore concentrate annually, targeting an output of 1,400 tons of rare earth oxides [5][6]. Technological and Operational Insights - Caremag's technology focuses on reducing CO2 emissions and achieving zero liquid waste, with plans to utilize artificial intelligence for optimizing production processes [5][9]. - The plant's design and operational processes are based on years of research, but it still relies on external partnerships for certain technologies, indicating a potential technological gap compared to Chinese operations [11][13]. Supply Chain and Raw Material Challenges - The plant will initially depend on imported ore concentrates from countries like Australia and Brazil, as Europe lacks domestic rare earth mines [6][13]. - A 10-year agreement with Brazilian Rare Earths has been established to secure supply, but geopolitical risks associated with transportation remain a concern [8][13]. Market Position and Competitive Landscape - The Caremag plant is positioned to be the largest rare earth separation facility in the West, but it faces significant competition from China's established supply chain, which controls 90% of global rare earth processing [9][15]. - The plant's output of 600 tons of dysprosium and terbium is notable, but it pales in comparison to China's annual production, which reaches tens of thousands of tons [17][18]. Future Outlook - The establishment of the Caremag plant signals a strategic shift in the West's approach to rare earth resources, aiming for greater independence from China, but the inherent challenges must be addressed for long-term success [15][18]. - The ongoing global competition in the rare earth sector will depend on which entities can overcome their respective bottlenecks in cost, technology, and supply chain management [18].