中国掌握关键矿产主导权的必然

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing importance of previously undervalued minerals in the military sector, highlighting the competition between the U.S. and China for mineral dominance, particularly in the context of AI and electric vehicles [2][4]. Group 1: Mineral Importance and Market Dynamics - Historically overlooked minerals are now critical in military applications, prompting the U.S. to strive for a return to mineral dominance previously held by China [2]. - China's monopoly on rare earth elements and other minerals is projected to remain largely unchanged, according to the International Energy Agency [8]. Group 2: Historical Context and Strategic Moves - The shift in focus towards minerals began with Deng Xiaoping's recognition of China's rare earth potential in the 1990s, leading to China's dominance in the market due to lower environmental costs compared to other countries [4][5]. - The U.S. has taken strategic actions, such as signing mining agreements with the Democratic Republic of Congo, to secure essential minerals like cobalt, which are crucial for defense and technology [6]. Group 3: Future Demand and Supply Chain Challenges - The demand for minerals is expected to surge, with projections indicating that copper demand could increase sixfold by 2050 due to rising electricity needs [5]. - The U.S. faces significant challenges in catching up to China's production capabilities, as evidenced by the low output of U.S. companies compared to their Chinese counterparts [8]. Group 4: Japan's Strategic Response - Japan is advised to build a national reserve of minerals to ensure supply security, as current reserves are insufficient for long-term needs [9]. - The rising costs associated with deep-sea mining projects in Japan highlight the challenges the country faces in securing its mineral resources [9].