The Hidden Engine of Clean Tech
China dominates the global rare earth supply chain, but its grip rests on a surprising ally: rebel-held mining zones in Myanmar. These mines, tucked away in Kachin state’s rugged terrain, have become the lifeline of China’s rare earth empire—fuelling everything from smartphones to electric vehicles and wind turbines.
A Web of Mining & Militias
After Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, the rare earth trade surged. Rebel groups controlling pockets like Chipwi, Pangwa, and Momauk began hosting unregulated mining hubs.
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240+ new mining sites sprung up since then.
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170,000 tons of rare earth crossed into China in just four years.
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Local insurgents impose levies worth up to $4,900 per ton, turning mining into a powerful war economy.
Why It Matters for India
For India, this poses both political and logistical hurdles. Competing in the rare earth race means navigating a region where Chinese-backed militias call the shots. With Beijing securing its supply lines from Myanmar, India risks falling further behind in this critical minerals game.
The Dragon’s Advantage
With 90% of global supply under its control, China has weaponized its rare earth dominance, tightening its grip on global technology markets. And Myanmar’s rebel-run mines? They remain the silent but crucial partners in this geopolitical chessboard.