China has announced that it will be enforcing strict rules on how rare earth minerals are mined and processed.
The Ministry of Commerce in China said these rules will also cover technology connected to these minerals. They said that mining, making magnet materials, recycling, or using rare earths from other sources will need special approval.
China accused foreign companies of using these minerals for military purposes.
China's Control
China has about 70% of the world's rare earth minerals and processes around 90% of them. These minerals are important for making cars, electronics, wind energy technology, and in defense.
The United States, the European Union, and India rely heavily on imports of these metals from China.
The European Commission has expressed serious concerns about China's new rules. A spokesperson said they are looking into the situation.
What did China's Ministry of Commerce say?
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said, "Some foreign organizations and individuals are directly processing rare earth minerals obtained from China and then transferring them to related organizations and individuals. Their use in military operations poses serious harm or potential threat to China's national security and interests."