Myanmar’s Rare Earths: Cries Behind Critical Minerals

Concept Note

The global shift to green energy hinges on a handful of critical minerals, and Myanmar has become a key supplier in this emerging race. In other words, as the global race to renewable energy accelerates, advanced magnets are in increasingly high demand. The rare earth minerals indispensable for these magnetic and conductive materials are being extracted from Myanmar’s conflict-ridden northern regions. China, which controls, refines, produces, and stockpiles nearly 90 percent of the world’s rare earth supply, has long sourced a significant share of its raw materials from Myanmar’s northern border regions. On the other side of the unregulated and illegal extractions, the environmental toll has been steep: soil, water, and air contamination from toxic chemicals has devastated local communities and rendered traditional livelihoods untenable. Streams once vital for drinking and irrigation now flow murky with toxins.

Research findings by ISP-Myanmar identified more than 370 rare earth mining sites and 2,700 in-stu leaching collection ponds in Kachin State’s Chipwi and Momauk townships, the epicenter of Myanmar’s rare earth extraction. Over 240 of these sites (66 percent) were developed after the 2021 military coup. The total area of operations now exceeds the size of Singapore. Myanmar has exported over 290,000 tonnes of rare earths to China in total, with nearly  170,000 tonnes shipped in the years following the coup.

While this research was being conducted, the devastating Mandalay-Sagaing Earthquake struck on March 28, 2025, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction. In its immediate aftermath, China was among the first to dispatch substantial rescue teams and humanitarian aid—a gesture that was deeply appreciated by the Myanmar communities affected by the disaster. Chinese citizens also provided committed support, with rescue teams displaying advanced technology and a high level of coordination. Their efforts closely reflected Myanmar’s esteemed “Four Sangaha Principles” (four means of sustaining a favorable relationship), notably dana (generous material support) and samanattata (treating others as equals). From a national perspective, China and its people conducted “earthquake diplomacy” with notable precision and generosity, earning the trust, respect, and reliance of many in Myanmar.

At the same time, China’s broader handling of post-coup dynamics in Myanmar—particularly its role in facilitating the return of Lashio, which had come under the control of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), to the State Administration Council (SAC)—sparked considerable public debate and scrutiny.

Yet, the less visible side of Myanmar’s conflict-driven economy warrants equal attention. A stark contrast emerges when comparing China’s role in post-earthquake relief with its involvement in extracting rare earth minerals, often kept out of public view. The local community derives little to no benefit from these lucrative operations. Instead, they face repression and militarized rule under the sway of armed groups, deepening their hardship. Forced displacement is common; families are uprooted, crops and livestock perish, and health crises follow. If a powerful neighbour like China—so visibly aligned with the spirit of the “Sangaha Principles” in its earthquake response—were to apply similarly high standards of responsibility and care in its mining ventures, it could pave the way for a more equitable arrangement that benefits both sides.In this week’s 30 Minutes with the ISP program, we will focus on China’s role in Myanmar’s rare earth mining. From a research perspective, we will also highlight the often-overlooked hardships faced by local communities affected by these operations and explore their hopes and concerns. We warmly invite you to join us and be part of the discussion.