China Widens Rare Earth Export Controls Before Likely Trump–Xi Meeting

Five more rare earth elements, lithium batteries, and artificial diamonds were also added to Beijing’s export control list.

A loader shifts soil containing rare-earth minerals, at a port in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China, on Sept. 5, 2010. AFP via Getty Images

The Chinese communist regime further expanded export controls on rare earth elements on Oct. 9, specifically barring defense and semiconductor companies outside China from accessing the critical metals.

Items containing more than 0.1 percent of rare earth ingredients sourced from China will require export licenses, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in a statement. The curbs are set to take effect on Dec. 1.