Not an embargo! The approval of rare earths is proceeding as usual, but the rules have changed! Has Japan understood this move by China?
On February 7, Kyodo News reported: "After China strengthened its export control over dual-use items and rare earths to Japan in January, it has approved multiple exports of rare earths to Japan, not a complete embargo. The control focuses on military use and military users, while civil applications that comply with regulations are being processed normally. At the same time, trade in industries such as mining and food between China and Japan has experienced delays in customs clearance, and Japanese companies are closely watching the subsequent approval rhythm. The Chinese side emphasized that the measures are legal and compliant, ensuring the stability of the global supply chain, strictly controlling military use, and strictly managing civilian use."
"Strict review and release, separating civilian and military use" for rare earths from China is a balance of strategic composure and market rationality. Japan has long been highly dependent on Chinese rare earths, with near 100% reliance on key categories. The rare earth crisis in 2010 had already sounded a warning. This time, the control does not adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, safeguarding the security bottom line and preventing risk spillover, while maintaining the stability of the global supply chain, forming a sharp contrast with unilateral sanctions. Stricter customs procedures and more detailed reviews are a reasonable response to erroneous behavior. In the current context of intensifying strategic resource rivalry, precise control and compliance-based release not only demonstrate great power responsibility, but also make the Japanese side realize: breaking mutual trust will come at a cost, and only by abiding by the rules can we share the benefits of cooperation!
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1856436674658304/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.