China warns US to adhere to International laws on Deep-Sea metal exploration
China has called on the United States to adhere to international laws regarding the extraction of rare metals from the ocean floor.
On Monday, April 14, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that no country should issue permits to extract ocean floor resources without respecting international legal frameworks. This statement came after reports of U.S. efforts to secure rare metals from the depths of the Pacific Ocean.
The U.S. government’s move was reportedly driven by a desire to reduce dependency on China for rare minerals, especially for defense industries. According to the Financial Times, the Trump administration was preparing an executive order to begin stockpiling rare metals on U.S. soil, citing national security concerns. These resources are crucial for various sectors, including electronics and electric vehicle production.
In response, China has warned that any mineral extraction from the seabed must comply with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and be conducted under the supervision of an international body. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stressed that the resources of the ocean floor are a “common heritage of mankind” and should only be exploited in line with accepted international principles.
China produces approximately 90% of the world’s processed rare earth metals, which are vital for the production of electric motors, defense equipment, and electronic devices. The country views these minerals as a key strategic resource and has long been the dominant supplier to global markets, including the United States.
This call for adherence to international law reflects China’s ongoing efforts to secure its position as a leader in the rare earth metals industry. The U.S. and China are locked in a broader competition over the control and access to these critical resources, with each side seeking to strengthen its strategic advantage.
The growing tensions between the U.S. and China over rare earth mineral extraction highlight the increasing importance of these resources in global geopolitics. The U.S.’s move to stockpile these minerals is seen as part of a broader effort to reduce its reliance on Chinese supply chains.
China’s emphasis on international regulation for seabed resource extraction underlines its broader commitment to preserving its role as a key player in global mineral supply. As both countries navigate this issue, the future of international mining regulations and trade in rare earth metals will likely become more contentious.
The outcome of this dispute may have lasting implications not only for U.S.-China relations but also for global industries reliant on rare earth elements.
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