The Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) spokesperson Colonel Naw Bu has confirmed that despite reports of US interest in rare earth minerals from Kachin State, there has been no direct communication on the matter yet. International media had reported that the US government was considering proposals, including direct cooperation with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), to secure rare earth minerals from Myanmar. However, Colonel Naw Bu clarified that the KIO has not received any official communication regarding these reports. When asked about the news of potential US interest in rare earth minerals and possible direct collaboration with the KIA, as reported by Reuters, Colonel Naw Bu explicitly stated that there had been no contact or discussions with the organization.
Regarding current rare earth mining operations in Kachin State, Colonel Naw Bu explained that only previously authorized Chinese companies in the Panwa region are permitted to continue their mining activities, while no new rare earth mining projects have been approved. He further emphasized that there have been no discussions or meetings with China concerning rare earth minerals. The KIO spokesperson confirmed that while existing companies in the Panwa area are allowed to continue their operations, no new mining permits have been issued. This situation reflects the current status quo in the region’s mining sector, with activities limited to previously established operations.
Rare earth minerals are crucial elements for technology and industrial applications, making them highly sought after by countries worldwide. Myanmar is among the countries with significant rare earth deposits, with Kachin State being particularly rich in these valuable minerals. Currently, China dominates global rare earth production and maintains significant control over the international market. This dominance has led other countries, including the United States, to seek alternative sources of rare earth minerals. The potential interest in Myanmar’s rare earth deposits comes as various nations attempt to diversify their supply chains and reduce dependence on a single source. However, as confirmed by the KIO spokesperson, any potential developments in this direction remain at the speculative stage, with no concrete negotiations or agreements in place with either the United States or China regarding new rare earth mining initiatives in KIO-controlled territories.
