China has pledged to simplify licensing procedures and accelerate approvals for rare earth exports while maintaining measures to prevent misuse of the critical minerals, the Ministry of Commerce announced Thursday. The move comes amid escalating trade friction with the United States over recent restrictions targeting Chinese industries.
Balancing Security and Trade
Spokesperson He Yongqian clarified that updated export controls aim to strengthen China's legal framework for managing strategic resources, emphasizing they are "not targeted at any specific country or region." All applications for civilian-use exports meeting compliance requirements will receive approval, with authorities actively working to facilitate legitimate trade.
Global Supply Chain Implications
The announcement follows U.S. measures including expanded export restrictions and new port fees for Chinese vessels under Section 301 investigations. He characterized these actions as "textbook unilateralism" that risk inflating U.S. consumer prices and weakening American port competitiveness while destabilizing global shipping networks.
Diplomatic Crossroads
Despite recent economic talks in Madrid, China expressed "strong dissatisfaction" with 20 U.S. restrictive measures implemented within three weeks. The spokesperson urged Washington to "correct erroneous practices" and return to dialogue, stating Beijing remains open to resolving disputes through "equal consultation based on mutual respect."
Rare earths, essential for electronics and defense systems, remain central to global tech supply chains as China refines its export management system. The developments highlight growing complexities in balancing national security priorities with international trade commitments.
