China announces new export control measures

New export control measures will be imposed on products linked to superhard materials, rare earth-related equipment and materials, and batteries, the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs announced on Thursday. 

Starting on Nov 8, the export of items involving superhard materials, equipment and raw materials associated with rare earths, five medium and heavy rare earth elements including holmium, lithium batteries and synthetic graphite anode materials will require government approval before shipment, according to the ministry.

The items included in the new export control list have clear dual-use characteristics for both civilian and military purposes, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Commerce said.

The commerce official said that China's implementation of export control measures in accordance with laws and regulations is consistent with international practices, aimed at better safeguarding national security and interests, as well as fulfilling its international obligations on nonproliferation.

Despite the new measures, the Chinese government is willing to work with all countries to maintain the stability and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains. These measures are not directed at any specific country or region, the spokesperson said, noting that for legitimate and compliant export applications, China will grant approval after a thorough review.

The Ministry of Commerce said that China is ready to engage in communication and dialogue with relevant parties through bilateral mechanisms on export control policies and practices to jointly promote and facilitate compliant trade.

Ahead of this move, on the same day, China placed 14 foreign companies, including Dedrone by Axon, Epirus Inc and AeroVironment Inc, on its unreliable entity list, according to information released by the Ministry of Commerce.

Under the new rules, the listed entities are banned from carrying out import or export activities related to China and banned from making new investments in the country.

Additionally, Chinese organizations and individuals are prohibited from engaging in transactions, cooperation, or other activities with these companies, including the transfer of data and the provision of sensitive information.

Foreign entities such as Dedrone by Axon and TechInsights Inc and its branches, have, despite China's strong opposition, engaged in so-called military-technical cooperation with Taiwan, published malicious statements concerning China, and assisted foreign governments in suppressing Chinese companies, said a ministry spokesperson in another statement.

These actions have seriously harmed China's national sovereignty, security and development interests, the spokesperson added.