ZGXT(SZ:000831) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-15 09:31Core Viewpoint - Lynas Corporation's attempt to shortcut decades of technological accumulation in rare earth extraction by hiring Chinese talent has proven to be a flawed strategy, as the complexities of industrial technology cannot be simplified to mere recruitment [1][3][5]. Group 1: Technological Challenges - The extraction of rare earth elements, particularly dysprosium, is not as straightforward as following a recipe; it requires a comprehensive engineering process that Lynas has not successfully implemented [3][5]. - Historical parallels are drawn to a U.S. company that failed in a similar endeavor due to the inability to solve complex separation challenges, highlighting the risks of underestimating the intricacies involved in rare earth processing [5][9]. - Lynas's low yield rates and the return of contaminated products underscore the challenges of achieving consistent quality in high-performance materials required for electric vehicles [7][9]. Group 2: Supply Chain and Economic Viability - The imbalance in Lynas's production strategy, focusing on heavy rare earths while neglecting the processing of lighter rare earths, has resulted in unsellable byproducts that erode profitability [9][11]. - The lack of a full supply chain capability means that Lynas's operations resemble charity rather than a viable business, as they cannot effectively manage the waste and costs associated with their production processes [11][16]. - The environmental and regulatory challenges faced by Lynas in Malaysia, particularly concerning radioactive waste, complicate their operational landscape and add to the costs [11][14][16]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Western countries face a dual challenge of needing clean energy solutions while avoiding the environmental costs associated with rare earth extraction, leading to a hypocritical stance on supply chain management [13][16]. - China's dominance in rare earth technology, evidenced by its vast number of patents, creates significant barriers for Western companies like Lynas attempting to establish independent operations [18][20]. - The collaboration among the U.S., Japan, and Australia in the "critical minerals alliance" is characterized by conflicting interests and lacks the cohesive strategy needed to compete with China's integrated approach to resource management [21][23]. Group 4: Future Outlook - By 2026, the demand for heavy rare earths is expected to grow exponentially, and Lynas's current production levels will be insufficient to meet global needs, reinforcing China's central role in the market [23][25]. - The investment of 600,000 AUD will not lead to independence in the supply chain, indicating that the challenges posed by China's dominance in rare earth development are insurmountable for Lynas [25].