In a bid to strengthen global trade stability, the Chinese mainland has introduced new export controls on medium and heavy rare earth elements and related technologies. This licensing framework is designed to verify end-use compliance, ensuring strategic materials fuel innovation—not conflict.
Rare earths8212;17 metallic elements vital for electric vehicles, superhard materials, defense systems and more8212;have underpinned the Chinese mainlands role as a leading processor and supplier. According to the General Administration of Customs of the Chinese mainland, exports jumped 14.5% year-on-year to 44,355 metric tons in the first eight months of 2025, highlighting growing global demand.
By adding oversight to exports of equipment, superhard materials and battery components, authorities aim to align with international norms on non-proliferation and peace. Without checks, unrestricted flows risk exacerbating military escalations, especially given rare earths applications in precision-guided munitions and advanced electronics.
Meanwhile, trade tensions are rising elsewhere. Shortly after trade talks in Madrid, Washington announced a 100% tariff on imports from the Chinese mainland and sweeping export restrictions on critical software, effective November 1. These moves mark the latest in a series of unilateral actions that disrupt market predictability and complicate long-term pacts between the worlds two largest economies.
As businesses on both sides navigate this shifting landscape, industry leaders emphasize dialogue and cooperation to balance security concerns with the need for stable, transparent supply chains.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
