China tightens export controls on rare earth minerals once again

China has tightened its export controls on rare earth minerals and related mining and refining technologies, adding five more rare earth elements to its export control list, bringing the total to 12. The Commerce Ministry announced that foreign producers must now apply for export licenses if their products contain any Chinese-origin rare earth minerals or related technology. Defense organizations will be denied licenses, while semiconductor manufacturers will undergo individual reviews. Exemptions are made for exports intended for humanitarian aid, such as public health emergencies and disaster relief. As the world’s largest producer of rare earth minerals, China is leveraging these controls to safeguard national security amid increasing global competition in semiconductor manufacturing. This move mirrors recent U.S. export restrictions on chipmaking equipment aimed at limiting China’s technological advancements. The announcement follows Beijing’s April decision to add several rare earth minerals to its export control list in response to U.S. tariffs under the Trump administration, which had already caused significant global supply shortages. Rare earth minerals remain critical for industries including solar energy, electric vehicles