Ministry of Commerce Responds to Concerns Over Export Controls on Rare Earth-Related Items

On June 12, Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong addressed concerns regarding export controls on rare earth-related products during a regular press briefing. He emphasized that China remains committed to considering the legitimate civilian needs of various nations. The Ministry is responsible for reviewing export license applications in accordance with relevant laws and has already approved several compliant applications, with plans to continue strengthening the review process.

Earlier, on April 4, the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs jointly implemented export control measures covering seven types of medium and heavy rare earth materials, including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium, and yttrium. At that time, officials clarified that these restrictions were designed to safeguard national security and adhere to international non-proliferation commitments. Given the dual-use nature of these materials in civilian and military sectors, these controls align with global practices, reflecting China’s stance on promoting peace and regional stability. China also reiterated its commitment to bilateral dialogue and cooperation on export controls to ensure compliant international trade.

The policy has garnered significant global attention in recent weeks. On June 7, the Ministry of Commerce disclosed that Minister Wang Wentao elaborated on China’s export control policy during a June 3 meeting with Maroš Šefčovič, Executive Vice President of the European Commission for Trade and Economic Security. Wang reaffirmed that China’s export controls on rare earth-related items align with established international norms. Acknowledging European Union concerns, he proposed the creation of a green channel for eligible applications to expedite approvals, instructing working-level teams to maintain active communication.

In a separate response on June 7, the Ministry addressed growing global demand for medium and heavy rare earths in civilian industries such as robotics and new energy vehicles. The spokesperson emphasized that China has approved compliant applications and will continue strict oversight, while remaining open to discussions with relevant countries to support legal trade.

He Yadong also touched on China-U.S. economic and trade consultations, stating that both nations had reached a principled consensus on implementing agreements from the June 5 call between the two heads of state. Both sides have established a framework to advance Geneva trade negotiations, agreeing to maintain an ongoing dialogue to reduce misunderstandings, foster mutual cooperation, and reinforce the long-term stability of economic relations between China and the U.S.