Pajau Media
March 6, 2025
The closure of rare earth mining sites in Panwa and Chiphwi, near the Chinese border, has led to a decline in job opportunities, forcing many workers to return to their hometowns.
A worker from the Panwa area reported that most rare earth mining operations in these regions have stopped, leaving employees without work. "I'm heading home because all the mining sites are closed. I don’t know exactly what happened, but I heard some sites are still running for those who can afford to pay a lot of money. Only the major mining sites remain operational," the worker said.
Since mid-February, the majority of rare earth mining sites in Panwa and Chiphwi have been shut down, with only a few large-scale operations continuing. According to local sources, after the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) took control of Panwa last year, rare earth mining activities gradually decreased. Now, any mining operations that continue are required to pay taxes to the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO).
Many migrant workers have been affected by the closures, with some struggling to collect their wages from Chinese mining site owners. "It has become very difficult to ask the Chinese for money. Some workers even got into fights over unpaid wages. We requested our payment, and they said it will be given on March 15, so we are waiting. Many workers have already left for Myitkyina and Waingmaw. Right now, there are no cars coming up to Panwa—only vehicles leaving for Myitkyina and Waingmaw," another worker explained.
Additionally, due to restrictions imposed by both governments on official border crossings, rare earth minerals are reportedly being smuggled into China through unofficial routes. According to local residents, the minerals are transported via the Kanpaikti Station No. 6 smuggling route into Gouyun City, China.
The Chiphwi and Panwa regions, once controlled by the border guard force led by Zahkung Ting Ying, have historically been key suppliers of rare earth minerals to China.
News – Htu Seng
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