Chinese Rare Earth Exports Surge Despite Restrictions

Chinese rare earth exports surged in 2025, reaching their highest level in at least a decade despite ongoing export controls. According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, cited by Reuters, shipments climbed to 62.6 thousand metric tons, up from 55.4 thousand metric tons in 2024 and marking a continued rebound from the pandemic-era low (35.4 thousand metric tons in 2020). This strong annual figure was supported by a surge in shipments mid‑year, including the highest monthly export volume since 2009

The increase comes even as Beijing has tightened controls on certain critical minerals and technologies in recent years, particularly those linked to advanced manufacturing and national security. Analysts note that while some specific rare earth elements and processing technologies are subject to restrictions, overall export volumes have remained resilient, supported by strong global demand, especially from the electric vehicle, renewable energy and electronics sectors.

The trend also reflects China’s dominant position in the rare earth supply chain. Even when restrictions are introduced, global buyers often have limited alternatives in the short term, allowing export volumes to remain high. At the same time, some shifts in trade patterns have been observed, with companies stockpiling materials or rerouting supply chains in response to regulatory uncertainty. Looking into 2026, trade tensions and industrial policy continue to shape the market. Additional export controls on critical materials and technology transfers, alongside efforts in the United States, Europe and Japan to diversify supply chains, are likely to influence both the direction and composition of rare earth trade.