China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs (GAC) announced the decision to impose export controls on tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum and indium. The decision came into force on February 4. The export control list of dual-use items has been updated simultaneously. Export control were imposed on 25 rare metal products and their technologies, including ammonium paratungstate. As a major global producer and exporter of tungsten and other related items, China has long adhered to its international obligations regarding non-proliferation. Out of the need to safeguard national security and interests, China has imposed export controls on specific related items in accordance with the laws, a MOFCOM Spokesperson said. The addition of related items reflects the concept of integrating development and security, which is conducive to better safeguarding national security and interests, and better fulfillment of international obligations in non-proliferation, and the safeguarding of the security and stability of the global industrial chain and supply chain, the Spokesperson added. Exports will be permitted if they comply with the relevant regulations, the Global Times reports.
In 2024, China accounted for 83% of the global production of tungsten, 75% of tellurium, 81% of bismuth, 42% of molybdenum and 70% of indium, according to the U..S. Geological Survey.
