China expands export controls on strategic metals, rare earths
China has imposed export controls on 25 rare metal products and technologies including tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum and indium, according to a 4 February joint announcement from the Ministry of Commerce (‘MOFCOM’) and the General Administration of Customs (‘GAC’).
The statement said the new restrictions are imposed ‘in order to safeguard national security and interests and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation.’
The controls cover products like ammonium paratungstate and related production technologies. Exporters must obtain licences under China’s Export Control Law and dual-use items regulations.
The measures took immediate effect and China’s Export Control List for Dual-Use Items has been updated accordingly. MOFCOM said exports would be permitted if they comply with relevant regulations.
The move comes amid a trade war between China and the United States, which has escalated since President Donald Trump entered the White House. In response to the US imposing a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, China announced retaliatory tariffs and export controls on critical minerals that are vital for various industries, including defence, clean energy, and electronics.
China’s official Global Times newspaper reported that in response to the announced 10 percent additional tariffs on all Chinese goods by the US, Beijing is imposing ‘additional tariffs on certain imported goods originating from the US starting from February 10, including a 15 percent tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas and 10 percent tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement cars, and pickup trucks, per the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council.’
https://www.mofcom.gov.cn/zwgk/zcfb/art/2025/art_e623090907fc4e1092f0a4db72f57b95.html
