SINOLINK SECURITIES·2025-08-25 03:10Investment Rating - The report suggests a positive outlook for the rare earth industry, indicating a potential for significant price increases and improved valuations due to supply reforms and market dynamics [6][40]. Core Insights - The implementation of the "Interim Measures for Total Control of Rare Earth Mining and Smelting Separation" marks a significant regulatory shift, enhancing government control over the rare earth supply chain [1][12]. - Rapid increases in processing fees for heavy rare earths signal a tightening supply and improved bargaining power for compliant smelting plants [2][14]. - Export volumes for key rare earth materials are recovering, with notable increases in the export of neodymium-iron-boron, suggesting a positive trend for future exports [3][20]. - Supply disruptions from Myanmar's mining operations could further impact the domestic supply of rare earths, particularly if mining is halted as planned [4][36]. - Future quotas for rare earth mining may not be publicly disclosed, indicating a more controlled and potentially limited supply growth [5][40]. Summary by Sections Section 1: Regulatory Changes - The "Interim Measures" officially include previously unregulated imported ore processing, establishing a traceability system for better supply monitoring [1][12]. Section 2: Processing Fees - Heavy rare earth processing fees surged from 1,500 RMB/ton to 15,000 RMB/ton, reflecting a tightening market and reduced buyer interest in imported ores [2][14]. Section 3: Export Recovery - Following export controls in April 2025, there was a recovery in export volumes for terbium and neodymium-iron-boron, with July figures showing a 6% increase in neodymium-iron-boron exports [3][20]. Section 4: Supply Disruptions - Myanmar's mining operations face potential halts, which could significantly affect the domestic supply of neodymium and praseodymium [4][36]. Section 5: Quota Management - The first batch of mining and smelting separation quotas for 2025 has been issued but may not be publicly disclosed in the future, suggesting a more conservative growth outlook [5][40]. Section 6: Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on companies like China Rare Earth, Guangsheng Nonferrous, and Northern Rare Earth, which are positioned to benefit from supply reforms and market dynamics [6][43][44].