Yellin in China, page-6

I like to think that I could’ve answered all those questions - in a day or two, but I think this answer to the last one, including its admirably precise language, is very impressive (if not a bit scary!):

“China has implemented a strategic approach to secure international dominance in the world's critical minerals, including rare earth elements and other essential resources. This strategy involves several key elements:

1. Abundant Domestic Resources: China possesses significant reserves of critical minerals, including rare earths. By having abundant resources, China can ensure a reliable supply for its domestic industries and gain a competitive advantage in the global market.

2. Vertical Integration: China has established a vertically integrated supply chain, encompassing mining, refining, and manufacturing of critical minerals and their downstream products. This integration allows China to exert control over various stages of the supply chain and capture a larger share of the value-added processes, from raw materials to finished products.

3. Production Quotas and Export Restrictions: China has employed production quotas and export restrictions on critical minerals, particularly rare earths, to regulate supply and exert influence over global prices. By limiting exports, China can drive up prices and create a competitive advantage for its domestic industries.

4. State Ownership and Support: The Chinese government exercises significant control over critical mineral industries through state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and policy support. These SOEs receive preferential treatment, access to resources, and government funding, enabling them to dominate the market and maintain a competitive edge.

5. Strategic Stockpiling: China has implemented strategic stockpiling of critical minerals to ensure domestic availability and supply security. By building up substantial reserves, China can better withstand disruptions in global supply chains and leverage its stockpiles for strategic and economic purposes.

6. Global Investments and Acquisitions: China has pursued international investments and acquisitions to secure access to critical mineral resources abroad. This strategy involves direct investments in mining projects, joint ventures, and partnerships with foreign companies, giving China control over critical mineral assets worldwide.

7. Technology and Market Dominance: China has heavily invested in research and development of advanced technologies that rely on critical minerals, such as electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and electronics. By becoming a leader in these sectors, China can drive global demand for critical minerals, reinforcing its dominant position.

Overall, China's strategy to achieve international dominance in critical minerals involves leveraging its abundant domestic resources, establishing a vertically integrated supply chain, implementing quotas and export restrictions, promoting state-owned enterprises, stockpiling strategic reserves, pursuing global investments, and focusing on technology and market dominance. These efforts allow China to exert significant influence over global supply, pricing, and the development of high-tech industries reliant on critical minerals.”