Overview

• China’s commerce ministry published two documents that expand export controls on rare‑earth metals, alloys and related goods.
• Foreign companies and individuals must secure MOFCOM export licenses, with applications linked to military end users or entities on control lists effectively denied.
• Materials intended for advanced chipmaking face case‑by‑case review, including logic at 14 nm or below and memory with 256 layers or more, as well as related equipment and materials.
• Export of technologies now requires special authorization for mining, smelting and separation, high‑end magnet production, recycling of rare‑earth resources, and assembly or maintenance of production lines.
• Implementation timing varies by provision, with reports citing immediate effect from Oct. 9 and others noting parts begin Dec. 1, 2025; customs data show Jan–Aug rare‑earth exports rose 14.5% to 44,350 tonnes.