China has introduced stricter controls on the export of rare earths, limiting processing technology and international cooperation in the field.

Starting Thursday, China has implemented severe restrictions on the export of rare earths, essential for industry, including the defense and semiconductor sectors. The Ministry of Commerce has expanded previously announced controls, imposing export licenses for recycling equipment and processing technologies. Users in the military industry will not receive licenses, and collaboration between Chinese companies and foreign firms requires ministerial approval. China controls 60% of global extraction and 90% of rare earth refining.