You recently visited Ganzhou (贛州), Jiangxi Province, China, after an absence of 17 years. You mentioned having visited before, over a decade ago, to inspect a rare earth mine, though you noted that rare earth-related reporting is now almost impossible.
You were particularly struck by a memorable advertisement at the Ganzhou train station: "稀土王国" (Rare Earth Kingdom).
About Ganzhou and
It may be just a modest, small sign, but these rare earths are shaking the world.
The Chinese government recently announced new rare earth export restrictions on October 9th (2025).
China Tightens Rare Earth Export Controls
The export of rare earths destined for military applications has already been virtually halted. Among these, the most critical element is Samarium metal. Currently, Samarium metal is not produced outside of China—it simply cannot be.
Japanese magnet manufacturers produce Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo) magnets, some of which have been used by the U.S. defense industry for a considerable time. However, these latest Chinese export controls have put SmCo magnet production in a difficult position, effectively making it impossible to manufacture.
A representative from a certain magnet manufacturer stated: "We are in dire straits. It might be difficult to continue production."
The entity most severely impacted by this is the U.S. defense industry, including companies like Lockheed. China's move to tighten rare earth export controls is likely made with this knowledge.
Some even suggest: "The global balance of power might change because of this."
A state-owned rare earth company in Jiangxi Province commented: "Exports have become quite strict, but it is not a ban."
This is technically true—it is not an outright ban. However, the possibility of exporting for military use is currently zero. Attention is now focused on whether this issue will be raised during the upcoming U.S.-China summit, reportedly scheduled for the end of this month.
(iruniverse Yuji tanamachi)
