China's Ministry of State Security, the country's intelligence and internal security agency, has accused foreign intelligence agencies of stealing China's rare earth minerals. China claims that in recent years, some foreign entities and their agents have been continuously attempting to illegally smuggle these valuable metals out of the country. According to the agency, this issue is not only about economic loss but also about national security.
Smuggling Occurring Through Mail Parcels and False Labels
According to the ministry's report, foreign agencies influenced some individuals in China and formed a smuggling network with them. This network attempted to send rare earth minerals out of China. These elements were being sent in parcels with false labels such as "Not originally made in China." Furthermore, attempts were made to conceal the contents of the parcels.
Rare Earth Materials Hidden in Powder and Water Bottles
The ministry stated that these rare minerals were mixed with ceramic tile ingredients to avoid suspicion. In some cases, plans were made to hide them in water bottles and send them to other countries. China has described such activities as smuggling national resources and jeopardizing the country's security.
China Appeals to the Public
China's Ministry of Security has also appealed to the general public to immediately report any suspicious activity related to the country's rare resources to the relevant agencies. The ministry says that it is not only the government's responsibility but also every citizen's responsibility to protect the country's assets.
Accusations Against Foreign Agencies Without Naming Them
It is noteworthy that China has not directly named any country. However, considering its statements and the circumstances, it is believed that it is alluding to the United States and its allies. Tensions already exist between China and the United States on the technological and trade fronts.
China's Pressure on the United States and Europe
In recent years, China has been using rare earth materials as a strategic weapon. China dominates these minerals, which are used in electric vehicles, defense equipment, and advanced technology. Both the United States and Europe are heavily dependent on these supplies from China.
Speculation of a Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting
Amid these developments, there is also speculation that a meeting between former US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping may take place soon. If this happens, it could bring a new turn in relations between the two countries. However, reaching an agreement on issues such as rare earth materials before this meeting will not be easy.
China Warns About Export Rules
China recently agreed in trade talks with the United States that it would review export licenses for rare earth minerals. However, it also made it clear that it would control this resource only under strategic national interests. Thus, China is using these minerals as bargaining chips in tariff negotiations.
Increased Talks Regarding Technical Chips and Tariffs
Tensions have also been running high between China and the United States over high technology, especially AI chips, for a long time. Recently, the two countries have discussed suspending some technical controls and softening export rules. The aim is to reduce tensions between the two countries.
Why Rare Earth Minerals Are Special
Rare earth minerals contain 17 elements that are extremely important in modern technology. They are used in smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, military equipment, and renewable energy systems. Approximately 60 to 70 percent of the world's rare earth minerals are produced in China. This is why China's control over them affects the entire global supply chain.
