An Analysis of Conflict and Cooperation in Rare Earth Policy in China: From the Perspective of Liberalism

Abstract

The essay is to explore conflicts and cooperation in terms of China's rare earth policy. This phenomenon has been observed in the long-term, and recently, QUAD has established a league of rare earth, which influences this area. The essay uses the case study method. Through the case study of China, the essay hopes to have broader lessons of rare earth cooperation in the world. The result of the essay reveals the conflicts. Also, the conflicts can be resolved by international negotiation and coordination. Also, the essay reveals that the US is taking an active approach to tackling the changes in rare earth resources in China. In conclusion, the essay deepens our understanding of the present rare earth situation and provides us a new angle to view this issue. Moreover, the essay can be useful to propose changes to the behaviors of nation state actors. The essay presents how international cooperation and competition can take place in the issue of critical material. Admittedly, the essay is limited because there is not enough evidence, and it only focuses on China, so it may not apply perfectly in other countries. Further studies can look into rare earth policies in other countries.