China Tightens Rare‑Earth Export Restrictions on United States

China’s Ministry of Commerce announced new restrictions on the export of dual‑use rare‑earth products to United States companies, citing national security and non‑proliferation obligations. The ban forbids Chinese firms from supplying certain rare‑earth items that can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

Simultaneously, China’s Ministry of Finance prohibited state entities from purchasing goods from 46 U.S. firms, including major defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, General Atomics and General Dynamics. The move follows the U.S. Pentagon’s recent blacklist of Chinese companies and raises the stakes in the ongoing trade dispute that intensified after former President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing.

The restrictions aim to pressure the United States to curb its attempts to reduce reliance on Chinese rare‑earths, a critical component for many high‑technology and defense applications.