Beijing’s Strategic Decision
In a notable development, China has announced a ban on the export of certain technologies related to the production of rare earths. This decision, detailed in a Ministry of Commerce document, specifically targets technologies associated with rare earth mining, processing, and smelting. Notably, this ban does not extend to rare earth products themselves.
The Role of Rare Earths
Rare earth elements are critical in the production of various high-tech devices, including smartphones and electronic chips. Their significance extends to defense applications, radar systems, and the manufacturing of offshore wind turbine engines. Over the last three decades, China has established a dominant position in the global rare earth market, responsible for extracting 60% and refining nearly 90% of the world’s supply of these metals.
Impact on Global Efforts
This move by Beijing presents potential challenges to the United States and European nations, which have been actively seeking to develop their own rare earth sectors. The U.S., for instance, has reactivated the Mountain Pass mine in California but still lacks substantial refining capabilities. Efforts by Western countries to lessen dependence on China for strategic metals might face significant hurdles due to this new policy.
Historical Context and International Dynamics
China’s influence in the rare earths market became evident in 2010 following an export embargo during a territorial dispute with Japan. The recent U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, aiming to boost domestic production of lithium, nickel, and cobalt, reflects ongoing efforts to diversify supply sources. However, China has responded with its own export restrictions on materials like gallium, germanium, and graphite, underscoring the strategic nature of these resources in global trade and politics. 
