China lays down the law on illegal rare earth mining
The largest producer and exporter of rare earth materials is tightening its regulations of illegal mining, processing and sales of the elements, as it plans to the completely overhaul the industry.
China will increase the number of expectations, strengthen cooperation’s between ministries and departments and adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal mining.
Zhou Changyi, head of the department of raw materials under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology believes now is the perfect time to change.
"The next few years are an important period for the overhaul of China's rare earth industry and promoting its healthy development," he said.
"Illegal mining is the principal reason for gloominess in the industry," he added.
China has closed down 14 illegal rare earth mines and 28 companies as part of the overhaul.
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