Abstract:Rare earth is an important strategic non-renewable natural resource. The purpose of strengthening the management of rare earth industry in China is to promote sustainable development. The essence of rare earth trade conflicts initiated by some countries against China is environmental colonialism. This behavior deviates from the principles of national sovereignty over natural resources, intergenerational equity and international environmental justice. In order to realize the sustainable development of natural environment and social economy, China needs to improve the rule of law of rare earth management, enhance the right to speak in the formulation and interpretation of laws and regulations of international trade and international environmental governance, and construct the strategic security mechanism of rare earth resources.