黄金都不香了？为找它，阿拉斯加掀新一轮采矿热

Core Viewpoint - Alaska is becoming a frontline in the competition for critical minerals, particularly antimony, which is essential for the defense industry and has seen a significant increase in demand due to geopolitical tensions [2][4]. Industry Overview - The U.S. and Western mining companies are actively searching for antimony in Alaska, a resource that was previously overlooked in favor of gold [2]. - Antimony prices have quadrupled over the past two years, creating supply challenges for U.S. defense companies that rely on it for munitions [4]. - Approximately 60% of the world's antimony supply comes from China, with the remainder sourced from Russia, Tajikistan, and Myanmar [5]. Company Activities - The U.S. Department of Defense is investing in the revival of antimony mining projects, including a $43 million funding announcement for an Alaskan antimony project [9]. - American Antimony Company has secured a $245 million contract from the Pentagon to supply antimony metal ingots, focusing on domestic mining efforts in Alaska after halting operations in Mexico due to safety concerns [10]. - Felix Gold has discovered high-grade antimony deposits near Fairbanks, Alaska, and plans to commence mining operations pending permits [12]. Local Impact - The increased mining activity has raised concerns among local residents and tourism operators about environmental impacts and disruptions to traditional activities, such as dog sledding and viewing the Northern Lights [13].