Story perspectives

China Issues Rare Earth Export Licenses Amid Smuggling Crackdown

12/18/2025

Center

China Exports Rare Earths

Beijing began issuing general licenses on December 18, 2025, to export rare earth elements to foreign companies.
The move follows reports that European companies have received initial licenses.
A Chinese court convicted 27 individuals for smuggling antimony under tightened export controls.
The United States is pursuing a $1 billion deal with Australia to secure rare earth supplies amid concerns about China's dominance, with experts calling for price floors.

Left

China Sentences Smugglers

A Chinese court sentenced 27 individuals to prison for smuggling antimony.
The main defendant received a 12-year prison term for organizing the illegal shipment of more than 166 metric tonnes of antimony.
China has intensified enforcement of mineral export regulations after adding antimony to its control list in September 2024.
Although there is a temporary suspension of a ban on exports to the United States, strict licensing requirements remain in place.

History

Historical Context

In September 2024, China added antimony to its export control list, echoing its 2010 restrictions on rare earth elements, which accounted for over 90% of global supply. The recent conviction of 27 individuals for smuggling underscores enforcement challenges. As nations like the U.S. seek alternative sources, China's policies could significantly alter global supply chains and trade dynamics.

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China Exports Rare Earths

Beijing began issuing general licenses on December 18, 2025, to export rare earth elements to foreign companies.
The move follows reports that European companies have received initial licenses.
A Chinese court convicted 27 individuals for smuggling antimony under tightened export controls.
The United States is pursuing a $1 billion deal with Australia to secure rare earth supplies amid concerns about China's dominance, with experts calling for price floors.

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