China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) says its new rare ground export control is legal national security steps-and that licenses will be issued to eligible civil trade, according to a spokesman’s Q&A, which was sent on X Sunday morning local time.
Rare Earth-one group of 17 elements used in permanent magnetic engines for electrical vehicles (EVs) and wind turbines, defense electronics and other high-tech gear-watching a major role in supply chains because China dominates the sector.
Beijing accounts for approx. 70% of global production and approx. 90% of processing and refining; So licensing change can ripple downstream, even when mining or final manufacture happens elsewhere.
In comments that were only published hours ago, the MOFCOM spokesman framed October 9 actions with the general administration of customs part of a longer effort to “refine” China’s export control system in accordance with the domestic law and non-proliferation obligations.
The spokesman quoted the military relevance of medium and heavy rare earths and said partners were informed in advance through bilateral dialogue mechanisms for export control.
The implementation, the ministry said, will be related to license rather than bans.
Reviews will be carried out under law, licenses will be awarded where applications are qualified and Beijing is considering “active” light measures – including potential general licenses and licensing – to promote legitimate trade.
The spokesman also said that China had assessed the effects of the measure ahead of time and expects the wider supply of tendering to be “very limited.” The message to commercial users was explicit: compatible civil exports “can get approval.”
Reply to Washington – While Leaving Space For Conversations
MOFCOM also turned to President Donald Trump’s comments from October 10 on Truth Social about an additional 100% duty on Chinese imports (became in force on November 1, 2025) and potential US export controls on “Critical Software.”
The spokesman called the American position a “double standard” that pointed to the banks of US controllers and the minimis rules as examples of Washington’s expansive approach.
At the same time, the ministry emphasized the process and said that China “does not want” a trade war but “is not afraid” of one, and calls to return to established consultation channels to control differences on mutual basis. The spokesman said China would take “resolute measures” to protect his interests if the United States continues.
Separate comments criticized US port taxes due to entering into force on October 14 on certain Chinese connected vessels.
Mofcom described these fees as one -sided and incompatible with WTO rules and bilateral agreements. China, the ministry said, will charge special port fees on US-connected ships under domestic rules characterize the step as a defensive countermay aimed at protecting Chinese companies’ rights and maintaining fair competition in shipping.
From Sunday, 7 p.m. 9:15 UTC, according to Coindesk data, Bitcoin traded around $ 111,271, with 0.5% over the last 24 hours and 10% from Thursday’s 9th October Intradag High at $ 123,641. Crypto Fear & Greed Index read 24 – “Extreme Fear” – Versus “Greed” a week ago, emphasized fragile mood.
