Overview

• Chinese magnet exporters have faced stricter license reviews since September, with more applications returned for extra information and approvals taking longer, sources told Reuters.
• Beijing expanded rare-earth controls last week, and foreign buyers are rushing to ship before the new rules take effect on November 8, with some reports citing a December 1 start.
• Official data show China’s rare earth exports fell 31% in September, though the statistics do not break out magnets and detailed September magnet data are still pending.
• Enhanced inspections aim to prevent mixing of heavy rare earths into light magnet consignments, and limited approved testing facilities are creating certification bottlenecks and longer lead times.
• The EU Chamber of Commerce in China reports persistent approval backlogs, while geopolitical risks are rising as the U.S. president threatens 100% tariffs on Chinese imports from November 1, according to Indian Express, even as later comments struck a softer tone, Reuters reported.