As the race to make ever faster semiconductors intensifies, China has once again notched up export controls on rare earth minerals as well as related mining and refining technology.
The country’s Commerce Ministry said on Thursday that it has added five rare earth elements to its export control list, taking the total to 12, in order to “safeguard national security.” The ministry introduced an export license that foreign producers will have to apply for if they plan to export products that use even slight amounts of Chinese-origin rare earth minerals, or technology from the country to mine them.
The ministry said defense organizations would not be granted export licenses, while those intending to use rare earth minerals for making semiconductors will be given licenses based on individual review. Exports intended for humanitarian aid, such as public health emergencies and disaster relief, will be exempt from the license requirements.
As the world’s largest producer of rare earth minerals, China has leveraged its position extensively to negotiate with other countries, especially the U.S., which has, of late, threatened to increase the scope of chipmaking equipment and chips that are not allowed to be exported to China. Rare earth minerals are critical in a wide range of industries, from solar panels and batteries for electric vehicles to chipmaking and aerospace.
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