Last week, the Ministry of Commerce announced that the Chinese mainland will impose export control measures on certain rare earth items and related technologies. These elements are critical strategic resources with unique properties that power everything from smartphones to defense systems.
Why this matters: Rare earths have dual-use characteristics, essential in both civilian and military applications. By refining its export controls, the Chinese mainland aligns with international practices for managing sensitive materials.
Protecting security and stability: As a responsible major country, the Chinese mainland has assessed the limited impact on industrial and supply chains and informed relevant countries and regions through established bilateral dialogue mechanisms.
Controls, not bans: These measures update an existing framework. Since April, seven categories of dual-use rare earth items have been controlled, and related technologies have been on export restriction lists since 2001. Multiple facilitation measures—such as general licenses and exemptions for humanitarian needs—will keep trade flowing.
A smooth transition: A reasonable transition period will help stakeholders honor existing contracts. Eligible civil export applications will be approved, ensuring businesses can continue their operations without disruption.
Looking ahead: The Chinese mainland will review applications under relevant laws, granting licenses for civilian uses and maintaining global industrial and supply chain stability. A Ministry of Commerce spokesperson emphasized, "This is not a ban. All compliant civil export applications can get approval, so businesses have no need to worry."
Reference(s):
Rare earths: What you should know about China's export control
cgtn.com
