非洲启动稀土等资源外交

Core Viewpoint - Africa is initiating a new resource diplomacy, focusing on attracting foreign investment and enhancing local processing of minerals to increase added value, rather than merely exporting raw materials [2][4]. Group 1: Resource Diplomacy and Local Processing - Namibia is collaborating with Japan for joint exploration to assess the potential reserves of rare earth elements such as dysprosium and terbium [4]. - Namibia has banned the export of unprocessed rare earths, lithium, and cobalt to attract processing and refining facilities domestically, aiming to create local job opportunities [4]. - The Namibian Minister of International Relations and Trade expressed the desire to establish mutually beneficial economic relationships and promote joint development of minerals [4]. Group 2: Global Supply Chain and Market Dynamics - China dominates the global rare earth supply chain, accounting for approximately 60% of mining output and 91% of refining capacity [4]. - In the cobalt market, about 75% of the supply is sourced from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with 99% exported in unprocessed form to China, which controls nearly 80% of the refining segment globally [4]. Group 3: Africa's Mineral Wealth and Economic Structure - Africa possesses significant mineral resources, including rare earths in Namibia, Tanzania, and Madagascar, and substantial reserves of manganese and natural graphite [5]. - The continent's economic structure remains largely unchanged since colonial times, with a heavy reliance on raw material exports to China and Europe [6]. - At the upcoming African Union and European Union summit, Africa is expected to demand not only the transportation of unprocessed minerals but also support for local economic diversification and industrial upgrading [6]. Group 4: Future Demand and Economic Growth - The demand for essential minerals required for electric vehicles, wind power equipment, and smartphones is expected to increase [6]. - From an economic security perspective, Japan is increasingly supporting Africa's processing and refining efforts to ensure access to critical minerals [6].