Chinese New Export Controls on Key Rare Earths & Magnets
Chinese New Export Controls on Key Rare Earths & Magnets
– NdFeB Supply Chain Faces New Rules!
1. Hot News
On Oct. 9th, 2025, at 9:00 AM, China’s Ministry of Commerce released Announcement No. 61. The announcement introducing export controls on key rare earth metals like Sm, Dy, Tb, and Ga, as well as downstream permanent magnet products.
This is the first time, overseas companies using Chinese rare earths or technology to produce related items have to require a license. This includes NdFeB magnets containing Tb/Dy and SmCo magnets.
2. 3 Key Rules That Directly Affect You
（1）These Situations Now Require a License
Restriction magnets made in China: You need a license for export (e.g., motor magnets you buy from China).
Overseas-made magnets with Chinese restriction elements: If Chinese restriction rare earths make up ≥0.1% of value, they are controlled (e.g., NdFeB assemblies from Southeast Asia containing Chinese Dy).
Even if made overseas, if you use Chinese rare earth magnet technology, you still need a license.
（2）Three types of applications will generally be rejected.
For military use,
For weapons of mass destruction or related purposes
For importers on MOFCOM’s “control lists”
Those above are strictly limited. This significantly impacts purchases in aerospace and defense industries.
（3）Only Exception: Humanitarian Use
NdFeB for medical equipment or disaster relief don’t need a license. But you must report to MOFCOM via email (jingwaibaogao@mofcom.gov.cn) within 10 business days after export.
3. Impact on the Global Magnet Market
Costs Increase: Under the export control, magnets have to need verification and export license, which increases costs.
Longer Delivery Times: Overseas magnet manufacturer using Chinese rare earths will need licenses, which takes around 45 business days.
Compliance Risks Rise: Cross-border transfers without a license will subject to Chinese legal action.
4. Important Reminders for Our Customers
（1）Check Your Product Content
Does your supply chain use Chinese Sm, Dy, Tb, or Ga?
Do your current magnet stocks contain controlled materials?
(2) Prepare License Applications in Advance
（3）Request Compliance Documents
You must get a “Compliance Notice” from your upstream supplier. Without it, reselling the product could be illegal.
（4）Key Timelines (Please Note!)
