China may once again raise the serious decline in the total reserves of rare earth resources

In the wake of the failure of China's rare earth case at the WTO, some export tariffs on rare earth products will be lifted, prompting a renewed tightening of state regulation and consolidation of the rare earth industry. According to reports from the *Economic Information Daily*, authoritative sources indicate that relevant government departments are currently considering raising the resource tax on rare earths as part of broader regulatory efforts. "The State Administration of Taxation, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the Ministry of Finance are all in discussions about this policy," an insider revealed. It is expected that the new tax measures could be introduced during the second half of the year. While the exact rate increase is still under review, it is likely to be significant, aiming to reflect the true value of rare earth resources, including their environmental impact and scarcity. Industry insiders view the tax hike as a key tool for regulating the rare earth market. By increasing the cost at the source, the government aims to boost market prices, balance supply and demand, and reduce illegal activities such as smuggling and hoarding. This move also helps mitigate the negative consequences of the WTO loss and reinforces China’s control over its strategic resources. Since 2007, China has implemented strict policies to manage rare earth production, including setting production quotas and gradually reducing export volumes. In 2011, the country raised export tariffs on certain rare earth products and significantly increased the resource tax. At that time, the tax for light rare earths was set at 60 yuan per ton, while medium and heavy rare earths were taxed at 30 yuan per ton — a tenfold increase from previous levels. A senior industry executive told the *Economic Information Daily* that a further sharp rise in the resource tax would significantly increase operational costs for companies. However, it also signals the government's stronger commitment to controlling rare earth resources. As a result, rare earth prices may see an upward trend. Recent data shows that rare earth prices hit a low point in mid-2013 after a prolonged decline. For example, in Baotou — one of China's main rare earth production centers — 34 large-scale enterprises operated at 91.2% capacity between January and March, with sales revenue falling by 25.3% year-on-year. Profit margins also dropped, and exports declined sharply, with delivery values down 47.2%. Companies with mining rights, such as Baotou Steel Rare Earth, Xiamen Tungsten Industry, Minmetals Rare Earth, Guangyu Nonferrous, Chinalco, and Luzhou Rare Earth, are expected to benefit first from the policy changes. Notably, global economic slowdowns have led to reduced demand for rare earths, causing prices to fall. This has also eased pressure on foreign countries to develop new mines. Despite some efforts, such as the reopening of a mine in California or plans by Malaysia to import from Australia, interest in building new rare earth facilities outside China has waned. Analysts suggest that China's rare earth monopoly may continue until 2020, with over 90% of global supplies still coming from the country. With reserves declining rapidly — from 70% of the world total to just 30% today — China's medium and heavy rare earth reserves are expected to last only 15 to 20 more years. Future imports may become necessary, making domestic regulation even more critical.

Square Ductile Gratings

Square Ductile Gratings are a type of grating system that is commonly used in various industries and applications. These gratings are designed to provide a strong and durable solution for platforms, walkways, and other areas where heavy loads and frequent foot traffic are expected. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, features, and benefits of square ductile gratings in detail.

Square ductile gratings are typically made from ductile iron, a type of cast iron that has been treated with a small amount of magnesium to enhance its strength and toughness. This material is known for its high resistance to impact, fatigue, and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor and industrial environments. The ductile iron construction also allows for a higher load-bearing capacity compared to other materials, such as steel or aluminum.

One of the key features of square ductile gratings is their square-shaped openings. These openings are designed to allow for the efficient drainage of water, debris, and other materials, reducing the risk of slips and falls. The square shape also provides a stable and secure surface for walking or standing, even in wet or slippery conditions. Additionally, the openings allow for ample airflow, which can be beneficial in applications where ventilation is required.

Square ductile gratings are available in a variety of sizes and load ratings to suit different requirements. The load rating refers to the maximum weight that the grating can safely support without deformation or failure. This makes it crucial to choose the appropriate load rating based on the expected load and usage of the grating. Higher load ratings are typically achieved by increasing the thickness and depth of the grating bars.

In addition to their strength and durability, square ductile gratings also offer several other benefits. One of the main advantages is their ease of installation. These gratings are often supplied in pre-fabricated panels, which can be quickly and easily installed using standard fixing method.

Another benefit of square ductile gratings is their low maintenance requirements. The ductile iron material is resistant to rust and corrosion, reducing the need for regular painting or coating. Additionally, the square-shaped openings allow for easy cleaning, as debris and dirt can be easily swept or hosed off the surface. This can save both time and money on maintenance and cleaning efforts.

Square ductile gratings are also highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. They are commonly used in industrial settings, such as oil refineries, chemical plants, and power stations, where heavy loads and harsh conditions are present. They are also suitable for commercial applications, such as pedestrian walkways, ramps, and platforms. The strong and durable nature of these gratings makes them ideal for areas with high foot traffic, such as airports, train stations, and shopping centers.

In conclusion, square ductile gratings are a reliable and robust solution for various industrial and commercial applications. Their ductile iron construction provides strength, durability, and resistance to impact and corrosion. The square-shaped openings allow for efficient drainage and airflow, while also providing a stable and secure surface. With their ease of installation and low maintenance requirements, square ductile gratings offer a cost-effective and versatile solution for many industries.

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