Myanmar: Expansion of Chinese-backed rare earth mining in Kachin state causes deforestation and community health harms, says report
"Satellite data show burst of deforestation in Myanmar rare earth mining hotspots" Mongabay, 16 September 2025
Civil society sources in the region [...] say mining activities are also causing alarming impacts on human health, women, soil and rivers.
"[...] noticeable rise in deforestation since around 2018, with sharp increases particularly around mining zones due to road construction, land clearing for extraction activities, and widespread tree cutting for fuelwood or to dry the rare earth sludge," [...].
[...] sharp increase in natural hazards such as flooding and landslides may be linked to the rise in deforestation around Pang War, which lies within Chipwi township [...].
Researchby a Chinese customs official suggests China Southern Rare Earth Group imports and processes most of its raw materials from Myanmar. Key permanent magnet manufacturers like JL Mag source from China Southern and supply [...] Tesla, BYD, United Automotive Electronic Systems (UAES) and Nidec Corporation. Some companies contacted by Global Witness, including Nidec, publicly distancedthemselves from the Myanmar supply chain.
[...] the expansion of the mining sites has reportedly caused injuries and deaths.
[...] chemicals are also fueling farmland pollution and water contamination. [...]
“In addition to the water pollution and associated health risks, mining workers present a range of health problems such as coughing, numbness, skin conditions, and kidney issues,” [...].
[...] Local female workers often face mistreatment and sexual abuse, on top of health issues. [...] there have also been cases where women working at mining sites have experienced miscarriages after returning home.