MOFCOM: China Tightens Grip on Rare Earth Exports, Imposes New Restrictions on Key Tech and Energy Materials

MOFCOM: China Tightens Grip on Rare Earth Exports, Imposes New Restrictions on Key Tech and Energy Materials

China has introduced new export control and licensing requirements covering rare earth–related materials and technologies that underpin the digital economy, automotive manufacturing, and energy transition. The measures aim to strengthen oversight of strategically important resources, signaling a tighter regulatory environment for overseas shipments of inputs critical to advanced manufacturing and clean technologies.

“Starting from November 8, items related to super-hard materials, equipment and raw materials linked to rare earths, the five medium and heavy rare earth elements including holmium, lithium batteries, and synthetic graphite anode materials will not be allowed to be exported without approval,” the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in a statement.

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