Story perspectives

TSMC Confident Amid China's Rare-Earth Export Ban

10/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) says it has sufficient rare-earth supplies to withstand export controls from China.
Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association (TSIA) chairman Cliff Hou says there are no immediate impacts.
China controls over 85% of global processing capacity and reinstated its rare-earth export ban.
U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened further sanctions.
The situation has created volatility in global markets and raises concerns about long-term semiconductor supply stability.

History

Historical Context

China's dominance in the rare earth market began in the 1990s, when it produced 129,000 tons by 2009, controlling over 85% of global processing. In 2010, amid rising tensions with Japan, China imposed an export ban, alarming industries reliant on these elements. This led to international disputes, including a 2012 WTO case, highlighting the strategic importance of rare earths in global supply chains.

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Story summary

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) says it has sufficient rare-earth supplies to withstand export controls from China.
Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association (TSIA) chairman Cliff Hou says there are no immediate impacts.
China controls over 85% of global processing capacity and reinstated its rare-earth export ban.
U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened further sanctions.
The situation has created volatility in global markets and raises concerns about long-term semiconductor supply stability.

1 / 2