ZGXT(SZ:000831) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-11-20 13:40Core Viewpoint - The article discusses China's dominance in the rare earth market, highlighting its significant control over production and export, which impacts the global supply chain and pricing dynamics. Group 1: Export Data and Trends - In 2022, China exported 48,728 tons of rare earths, a slight decrease of 0.4% from 2021, as the country tightened quotas to retain high-purity products for domestic use [4] - In 2023, exports surged to 52,307 tons, an increase of nearly 3,600 tons, driven by high demand for electric vehicles, with a record monthly export of 6,217 tons in May [6] - For 2024, exports are projected to reach 55,431 tons, a 6% increase, despite a 35% drop in export value due to falling prices [8] Group 2: Market Dynamics and Control - China's export strategy involves controlling who, what, and how much is sold, with a focus on maintaining pricing power and ensuring domestic supply [18] - The article emphasizes that China's rare earth production is not just about volume but also about strategic management of resources and technology [22] - The U.S. and other countries face significant challenges in reducing reliance on Chinese rare earths, as their production capabilities are limited and lag behind China's technological advancements [20] Group 3: Technological Advancements - China's rare earth processing technology has evolved significantly since the 1970s, achieving high purity levels and cost reductions, which have established a competitive edge [12] - The latest advancements include a fifth-generation extraction process that utilizes AI to optimize efficiency and reduce costs by an additional 30% [22] - The article suggests that China's technological superiority has created barriers for foreign competitors, making it difficult for them to catch up [22] Group 4: Future Outlook - The export volume is expected to stabilize around 50,000 tons in 2025, with potential adjustments based on market conditions and strategic decisions [24] - The article concludes that China's control over rare earth exports positions it favorably in the global market, with the ability to dictate terms to other countries reliant on its resources [24]