Myanmar: Rare earth mining grows in Kachin State along border with China
Global Witness
For decades, China was the world's largest producer and processor of heavy rare earth minerals - the class used to make the permanent magnets used in electric vehicles and wind turbines, and thus crucial to the green energy transition. As the toxic and environmentally destructive processes used to mine rare earths cheaply became increasingly apparent to the Chinese government, it took action. In 2016, the Chinese government introduced a series of regulations to clean up the industry and shut down many domestic mines.
Instead of cleaning up the industry, the environmental and social harms of mining were exported to neighbouring Myanmar, which has become one of the largest producers of heavy rare earths and the main source of supply for Chinese manufacturers.
Research has shown that the impact of mining on local ecosystems, livelihoods and access to safe drinking water has been devastating. Deforestation has also led to soil erosion and chemical pollution has damaged ecosystems. Many people are afraid to speak out against mining for fear of retribution.
According to informants, armed groups in Kachin state, including the Myanmar military, pro-junta militias, Border Guard Forces, and the Kachin Independence Organization’s armed wing, have all profited from illegal mining.