Rare Earths Market Update: Impacts of Myanmar Conflicts and Global Trends

Highlights

• Myanmar’s mining conflicts threaten 50% of China’s rare earth feedstock, driving potential price increases.
• Rare Earths MMI shows a 2.59% downturn in December, influenced by geopolitical instability and market dynamics.
• Key rare metal prices decline:
  • Neodymium dropping 4.48%
  • Dysprosium oxide falling 7.06%

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The Rare Earths MMI (Monthly Metals Index) showed a slight downward trend of 2.59% in December, reflecting ongoing turbulence in the global rare earths market. Key factors contributing to this trend include geopolitical instability in Myanmar and China’s influence on market dynamics.

Start with Myanmar’s Mining Disruptions

As reported by Jennifer Kary for Metal Miner, (opens in a new tab) the conflict in Myanmar, specifically the Kachin Independence Army’s (KIA) capture of critical mining hubs like Kanpaiti and Pang War, has disrupted rare earth mining operations. Myanmar, a major supplier of heavy rare earth elements (HREEs) to China, accounts for nearly 50% of China’s feedstock. The suspension of mining in these regions threatens global supply chains and could drive rare earth prices higher. For example, dysprosium oxide prices recently surged to 2,610 yuan ($356) per kilogram, the highest since May 2022.

China’s Role and Market Dynamics

China’s rare earth market remains a significant factor. While its abundance of rare earth elements applies bearish pressure, the market remains susceptible to price fluctuations due to potential trade policy shifts. For instance, future tariffs on Chinese imports, as discussed in U.S. policy, could alter the global supply-demand balance.

A growing trade war between China and the U.S. will only make the matter more volatile.

Environmental and Social Concerns

Myanmar’s rare earth extraction, often dominated by armed Chinese groups, has raised environmental and social issues. The mining processes have caused ecological damage and adversely affected local communities, prompting calls for sustainable sourcing practices.

Key Price Trends

Rare Metals	Summary
Neodymium prices	Decreased by 4.48% to $70,519.59 per metric ton.
Dysprosium oxide prices	Fell by 7.06% to $227.54 per kilogram
Terbium prices	Dropped by 3.88% to $995.15 per kilogram
Yttrium prices	Declined marginally by 0.8% to $28.50 per kilogram

Outlook and Industry Responses

The continued instability in Myanmar adds uncertainty to the rare earth supply chain. Companies reliant on these materials are urged to diversify sourcing and explore recycling technologies. Furthermore, global coordination is essential to promote ethical and sustainable rare earth mining practices.

Assumptions and Biases

The report assumes that Myanmar’s geopolitical situation will persistently impact supply chains, overlooking potential diplomatic or military resolutions. It also leans heavily on China’s role in rare earth markets, potentially underestimating other emerging players. Additionally, the emphasis on MetalMiner’s forecasting and market intelligence could reflect promotional bias toward their services.

By addressing these challenges through innovation and international collaboration, industries can mitigate volatility and ensure a stable supply of these critical resources.