China becomes the top importer of rare earths; Imports are primarily from the United States and Myanmar

摘要

IN A SURPRISING development, China has emerged as the world's largest importer of rare-earth elements. China is already the top producer of rare-earth elements in the world. 'Reuters reported that China has for years been the world's biggest rare earths exporter, raising shipments overseas by 4 percent year-on-year to more than 53 kt (58,000 st) in 2018, and its emergence as the top importer as well in a sudden and surprising development.