ZGXT(SZ:000831) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-17 10:35Group 1: G7's Strategy on Rare Earths - The G7 finance ministers have reached a consensus to accelerate the reduction of dependence on Chinese rare earths, driven by concerns over China's control of the global rare earth supply chain and its implications for high-end manufacturing [1][3][4] - Rare earths are critical resources, often referred to as "industrial vitamins," essential for industries such as electric vehicles, wind energy, aerospace, and defense [3][4] - China currently dominates the rare earth market, controlling 60% of global production and holding 58% of global patents, with extraction costs significantly lower than those in the U.S. [4][6] Group 2: Challenges in Decoupling from China - Despite significant investments from the U.S. and Germany to achieve "decoupling" from China, progress has been slow, with companies like MPMaterials and Volkswagen facing delays and technical challenges [6][8] - The cost of establishing an independent rare earth supply chain is prohibitively high, with recycling costs exceeding direct imports from China by 230% [8][10] - Many countries, including India and Vietnam, are reluctant to abandon cooperation with China, recognizing its role as both a major supplier and consumer in the rare earth market [8][10] Group 3: China's Role in Global Supply Chains - China's commitment to maintaining the stability of global critical mineral supply chains was emphasized by a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, warning against the potential consequences of disrupting these chains [10][20] - The G7's approach to rare earths appears to be more of a political maneuver rather than a viable solution, as the existing global supply chain is heavily reliant on China's dominance [10][18] Group 4: Arctic Governance and China's Involvement - NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's statement regarding China as a "near-Arctic state" reflects the geopolitical complexities and the desire of European nations to balance U.S. dominance in Arctic affairs [12][16] - The Arctic is becoming increasingly important due to climate change, with new trade routes and resource opportunities emerging, prompting nations to seek a more collaborative governance approach [14][16] - China's involvement in Arctic affairs, through research and commercial cooperation, positions it as a significant player in the region, which may help to shift governance from a Western-dominated model to a more multipolar one [16][20]