China Tightens Export Controls on Rare Earths and Technologies

China has announced new export restrictions on rare earth elements and related technologies, expanding permit and approval requirements for items that contain even trace amounts of China‑sourced rare earths.

The Commerce Ministry said the measures will cover exports of technologies tied to mining, smelting, recycling and magnet manufacturing, citing national security concerns and risks of diversion to military or other sensitive uses. Beijing already supplies roughly 70% of global rare earth mining and about 90% of processing, giving the policy broad implications for manufacturers of jet engines, radar, electric vehicles, consumer electronics and other systems that rely on rare earth magnets and materials.

How the rules will be enforced overseas was not detailed, but the timing—weeks ahead of a planned meeting between U.S. and Chinese leaders—adds a diplomatic dimension to trade negotiations. Analysts warn the controls could tighten supplies and complicate global supply chains, prompting buyers to seek alternative sources, invest in recycling and processing capacity outside China, or pursue strategic stockpiling to mitigate disruption.