China has effectively frozen shipments of seven critical rare earth minerals, sources revealed Thursday, potentially triggering significant global supply chain disruptions in high-tech and defense industries.
Shipments ceased on April 4 after Beijing imposed strict export controls, a move widely interpreted as retaliation for ongoing trade tensions with the United States. The export restrictions target minerals crucial to semiconductor, renewable energy, and military manufacturing sectors.
According to industry sources speaking on condition of anonymity, exporters must now navigate a complex licensing process through China’s Ministry of Commerce that could delay shipments by two months or more.
China, which dominates approximately 90% of global rare earth production, is leveraging its market position as a strategic economic weapon. The export halt underscores the country’s ability to potentially disrupt critical global supply chains.
“This isn’t just a trade issue—it’s a geopolitical chess move,” said Emily Rodriguez, a senior analyst at the Global Resource Institute. “China is signaling its economic leverage in high-stakes international negotiations.”
The sudden export freeze may paradoxically accelerate international efforts to diversify rare earth mineral sources, potentially weakening China’s long-term monopoly.
Manufacturers worldwide are now scrambling to assess potential shortages and seek alternative supply routes, highlighting the delicate interdependence of global industrial supply chains.
The story is developing, with immediate economic implications yet to be fully understood. (source: agencies)
