China's Rare Earth Export Permits May Take 45 Days

China’s exports of rare earth minerals have nearly come to a standstill as producers navigate stricter permit requirements introduced under new export controls. The move, seen as part of an intensifying trade dispute with the United States, has added new layers of complexity for exporters, who now face delays that could last several weeks as authorities clarify product classifications and processing protocols.

Mining.com reported that companies are scrambling to submit the required documentation, but export permits may take up to 45 working days to be approved, according to sources familiar with the situation. 

Last week, Beijing added seven rare earth elements to its export control list, including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium, and yttrium. These elements are essential for a range of industries, from electronics and medical devices to defense and clean energy. Two widely used rare earths, neodymium and praseodymium, were notably excluded, with analysts suggesting China may be targeting those less available outside the country.

The delays could leave international buyers, particularly in the United States, Europe, and Japan, facing supply shortages and potential production slowdowns. The minerals are critical for technologies such as wind turbines, radar systems, jet engines, optical lasers, and powerful magnets. Similar export controls imposed over the past two years on other critical minerals like gallium, germanium, and antimony resulted in a complete halt in exports for several months, as exporters needed time to meet new certification requirements.

China’s Rare Earth Minerals

China currently produces nearly 90% of the world’s rare earths, making its dominance a long-standing strategic concern for countries reliant on its exports. Over the past two years, Beijing has introduced similar restrictions on other critical minerals such as gallium, germanium, graphite, and antimony, citing national security concerns. While the new controls stop short of a total export ban, they will require stricter scrutiny of overseas buyers and intended uses. Some exports have previously dropped to zero under similar policies as companies awaited certification.

According to Citic Securities, measures may further constrain global supply while enhancing the strategic importance of investment in China's rare earth industry. China’s Nonferrous Metals Industry Association emphasized that restrictions will not affect legitimate trade, as long as buyers do not compromise China’s sovereignty or national interests. The Ministry of Commerce said the curbs on dual-use items align with national security priorities and broader goals of regional and global stability.