People's Daily reports that in accordance with the Export Control Law of the People's Republic of China and other relevant laws and regulations, the Chinese government recently announced export control measures on rare earths and related items, drawing widespread attention. Regarding China's implementation of these export controls, the following facts must be clarified:
1. China's implementation of rare earth export controls follows international practice
The substances subject to these controls possess dual-use military and civilian attributes, and imposing export restrictions on them aligns with international norms.
2. China's implementation of export controls is a lawful and legitimate action
Rare earth technologies were included in the Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited or Restricted for Export from China as early as 2001, requiring compliance with legal procedures for related exports. China's refinement of its export control system in accordance with laws and regulations constitutes a legitimate practice.
3. China's export controls aim to better safeguard global peace and regional stability.
Certain overseas entities and individuals have directly or indirectly transferred rare earth materials originating from China—either in their raw state or after processing—to organizations and individuals involved in sensitive fields such as military applications. This poses significant harm or potential threats to China's national security and interests, undermines international peace and stability, and harms global non-proliferation efforts.
4. China's implementation of export controls involves thorough impact assessments and transition periods.
China has conducted comprehensive evaluations of the potential impacts on production and supply chains, confirming that relevant effects will be extremely limited.
Prior to announcing the measures, China notified all relevant countries and regions through bilateral export control dialogue mechanisms.
Considering the practical needs of stakeholders to fulfill existing commercial contracts and meet compliance requirements, this policy establishes a reasonable transition period.
5. China's export controls do not constitute an export ban
The scope of items subject to controls is limited, and multiple licensing facilitation measures will be implemented. Licenses will be granted for all applications meeting relevant regulations. Exports for humanitarian purposes—including emergency medical care, public health emergencies, and natural disaster relief—will be exempt from licensing requirements.
6. The Chinese government stands ready to work with all countries to maintain the stability and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains.
These measures are not targeted at any specific country or region.
Lawful and compliant export applications will be approved following review.
China is willing to engage in communication and dialogue with relevant parties through bilateral export control dialogue mechanisms to promote and facilitate compliant trade.
7. The U.S. response to China's export controls exemplifies a classic “double standard.”
The U.S. has long overbroadly invoked national security concerns, abused export controls, and adopted discriminatory practices against China, with its export control list exceeding 3,000 items.
China consistently adheres to fair and reasonable principles, implementing export control measures prudently and appropriately, with its export control list containing only about 900 items.
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