ICYMI – China halts rare earth exports after new controls, raising global supply concerns

The info comes via a Reuters report over the weekend, though I thought I had seen similar late last week. ICYMi,

Shipments of seven rare earth elements from China have come to a standstill following Beijing’s move to tighten export controls, sources told Reuters. The halt began on April 4 after the government placed the materials—critical to defense, energy, and automotive sectors—under a licensing regime as part of its retaliation against U.S. President Donald Trump’s steep tariff hikes.

Exporters must now obtain licenses from the Ministry of Commerce, a process that can take weeks or even months. A China-based trader said clients are being told to expect delays of at least 60 days, though the wait could be longer, especially for U.S. buyers amid worsening trade tensions.

China accounts for about 90% of global rare earth production. Analysts warn that prolonged delays could deplete overseas stockpiles and disrupt global supply chains. Several Chinese sellers have already declared force majeure on contracts, and cargoes awaiting shipment that haven’t cleared customs are reportedly blocked from leaving ports.

While the move highlights Beijing’s leverage in global supply chains, it may also encourage long-term diversification efforts by foreign buyers seeking alternatives to Chinese supply.

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.