Despite Official Closures, Chemicals for Rare Earth Mining Still Transported Through Kachin-China Border Gates

Pajau Media

July 7, 2025

Although official border trade gates in Chipwi Township, Kachin State, remain closed, chemicals used in rare earth mineral extraction are still being transported through the Hpimaw gate with mutual agreement from both governments, according to local sources.

A local man from Hpimaw stated, “The gate hasn’t officially reopened yet. But since rare earth mining has resumed, chemicals are being transported through this gate. Both governments negotiate and agree on the dates and times for chemical shipments before they are transported.”

Since December 13 last year, after discussions between China and the KIO, all border trade gates in Kachin State were reportedly reopened, but the trade gates in Chipwi Township have not been officially opened.

Even though the border trade gates remain closed, rare earth mining sites and operations in Chipwi Township have resumed normal extraction activities.

According to ISP Myanmar, rare earth minerals mined in Chipwi are transported to China’s Tengchong region via the Pangwar, Hpimaw, Kanfang, and Kanpaiti border trade camps. Rare earth minerals from Momauk Township are sent to Longchuan and Yingjiang in China through the Mai Ja Yang gate.

The Chipwi and Panwar areas, previously under the control of U Zahkung Ting Ying’s border guard force, are the main regions where rare earth minerals are extracted and exported to China.

News – Hpring