what happened to the promised framework agreement?, page-161

That's the counter argument to China influence over this project.

Other rare earth projects not as financially attractive as peak have potential to progress with strong prices regardless of Chinese being the main supplier, especially in Western countries. If Tanzania thinks they are getting a good deal by postponing this project to placate China for favourable conditions then that's a short term strategic principle to stand by. Because while this project stalls others will continue to progress. Off take agreements will progress with other rare earth companies and Tanzania will be left holding their d!cks on a project that would be benefiting their government.