China’s Ministry of Commerce announced on October 9 a new set of measures aimed at strengthening export controls on certain rare earth-related items and technologies. This latest move has drawn significant international attention, given China’s dominant position in the global rare earth industry and its critical role in the production of high-tech goods, renewable energy technologies, and advanced defense systems. However, far from being an act of restriction or retaliation, these measures mark another step in China’s long-term commitment to improving governance, ensuring sustainable development, and safeguarding both national security and global supply chain stability.

Contrary to speculation by some foreign media, China’s decision is not a reactionary or politically motivated move. It is part of a broader, decades-long process of refining and regulating the rare earth sector. Rare earth-related technologies were first included in China’s Catalog of Technologies Prohibited and Restricted for Export as early as 2001. Since then, Beijing has steadily strengthened its oversight mechanisms to prevent resource depletion, illegal mining, and environmental degradation.

In April 2024, China introduced additional export control regulations requiring organizations and individuals to seek approval for the export of rare earth materials. The October measures build on this framework, further improving oversight and export management. The intent is not to limit legitimate international trade but to standardize it – ensuring that these strategic materials are used responsibly and in line with international security norms.

Rare earth elements (REEs) have dual-use characteristics – essential for both civilian industries such as electronics and green energy, and for military........

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