China rare earth exports rise 23 percent in early 2026
China's rare earth exports rose 23 percent to 10,468 metric tons in early 2026. The growth comes as Beijing prepares to tighten controls on strategic materials.
China reported a 23% increase in rare earth exports during the first two months of 2026, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs on Tuesday. The world's largest producer of these strategic minerals exported a total of 10,468.3 metric tons in January and February combined. The customs agency typically aggregates data for the first two months of the year to smooth out fluctuations caused by the Lunar New Year holiday.
The surge in shipments comes as Beijing intensifies its focus on the sector. Last month, Premier Li Qiang inspected rare earth facilities in Jiangxi province, where he signaled a sharpening of strategic competition with the United States over critical mineral supplies. This visit underscores the importance of the 17 minerals classified as rare earths in global technology and defense supply chains.
In response to evolving global dynamics, a Chinese metals industry body is scheduled to hold a policy briefing in Beijing on March 25. The session will address export controls on rare earths and other critical minerals as the government tightens oversight of dual-use goods. Despite the introduction of restrictions on several medium-to-heavy elements in April 2025, China's total rare earth exports in 2025 reached their highest level since at least 2014.
The shifts in Chinese export policy are closely watched by global market participants and competitors, including LYNAS RARE EARTHS LTD. As Beijing steps up its regulatory oversight, the industry continues to monitor how these policy changes will affect the availability of strategic materials worldwide.
