CNRE(SH:600111) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-11 08:50Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the alarming issue of Chinese rare earth elements being secretly sold to Western countries, undermining China's strategic advantage in the global supply chain of these critical resources [2][10]. Group 1: Importance of Rare Earth Elements - Rare earth elements such as Neodymium, Dysprosium, and Terbium are essential for modern military and industrial applications, including advanced radar systems and electric vehicle motors [3][5]. - China holds over 30% of the world's rare earth reserves and dominates the processing and refinement capabilities, making it a key player in the global market [8]. Group 2: Illicit Trade Practices - The article describes sophisticated methods used by companies to bypass regulations, including the use of false documentation and the establishment of shell companies to obscure the origin of the materials [10][12]. - These operations not only facilitate the export of rare earth elements but also allow Western countries to reverse-engineer and analyze the technology embedded in these materials, potentially compromising China's technological edge [14]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - The unauthorized export of rare earth elements provides Western countries with critical resources, allowing them to strengthen their own supply chains and reduce dependency on China [18][19]. - The article warns that this trend could lead to a future where China loses its competitive advantage as Western nations develop their own capabilities in rare earth processing and technology [21][19]. Group 4: Regulatory Response - In response to these challenges, the Chinese government is implementing stricter regulations starting in 2025, focusing on the end-users of exported materials and requiring licenses for any products containing Chinese rare earth components [24][26]. - The article emphasizes the need for a comprehensive tracking system to monitor the flow of rare earth elements from extraction to final product, ensuring that all transactions are transparent and compliant with national security interests [28][30]. Group 5: Industry Responsibility - Companies are urged to recognize the strategic importance of rare earth elements and to avoid short-sighted profit motives that could jeopardize national interests [35]. - The article concludes that the rare earth industry must undergo a fundamental transformation to align with national security objectives, emphasizing that engaging in gray market operations is detrimental to the industry's future [35].