Core Viewpoint - The article discusses how the U.S. has circumvented China's mineral export ban by importing key minerals like antimony through third countries, leading to a significant increase in U.S. imports of these minerals despite China's restrictions [3][5][10]. Group 1: U.S. Actions and Responses - The U.S. government has been secretly importing minerals from China via third countries like Mexico and Thailand to bypass China's export ban on critical minerals [5][8]. - Reports indicate that from December 2022 to April 2023, the U.S. imported 3,834 tons of antimony oxide from Thailand and Mexico, which is more than the total imports from the previous three years [8][10]. Group 2: China's Export Controls - In response to U.S. sanctions, China implemented strict export bans on key minerals such as antimony, gallium, and germanium starting December 2023 [3][5]. - China has also tightened controls on dual-use items to prevent their export to the U.S. [3]. Group 3: Consequences of Circumvention - The circumvention of China's export controls has rendered these measures ineffective, undermining China's leverage in U.S.-China relations [10]. - This situation highlights the internal challenges China faces, as domestic entities may be colluding with foreign parties to smuggle critical minerals out of the country [11][13]. Group 4: Government Actions - In light of the situation, China's Ministry of Commerce has initiated a special operation to combat the export of critical minerals to the U.S. through third countries [11].

Group 1 - The core issue of the article revolves around the ongoing trade conflict between China and the United States over rare earth elements and critical minerals, highlighting the complexities of international supply chains and the effectiveness of China's export restrictions [1][4] - China announced a ban on the export of strategic minerals such as antimony, gallium, and germanium in December 2024, which was initially perceived as a strategic advantage for China in the trade war [1][4] - However, U.S. companies quickly adapted by sourcing these critical minerals through third countries, indicating a significant shift in the supply chain dynamics [4][5] Group 2 - The article discusses how U.S. imports of antimony oxide from Thailand and Mexico surged to 3,834 tons between December 2024 and April 2025, nearly matching the total imports from the previous three years [4] - It raises concerns about the effectiveness of China's regulatory measures, as minerals can be repackaged and labeled in third countries, allowing them to enter the U.S. market without restrictions [5][8] - The article suggests that the current situation reflects a historical pattern where both countries have used similar tactics to circumvent trade barriers, undermining the effectiveness of China's export bans [8] Group 3 - The U.S. Department of Defense aims to diversify its supply sources to reduce reliance on China, indicating a strategic shift in sourcing critical minerals from regions like Africa and Canada [8] - The European Union is also considering establishing mineral transit routes in Southeast Asia, signaling a growing international competition for mineral resources [8] - The article emphasizes the need for China to implement effective countermeasures, such as additional taxes on transshipment activities and enhanced regulatory oversight in ASEAN countries [10]