China's Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs on Tuesday announced new export controls on tungsten and related items, covering 25 rare metal products, citing national security and non-proliferation goals.
The policy, which was approved by the State Council and took effect on Feb 4, align with China's existing export control laws. It forms part of a broader strategy to regulate the export of sensitive materials critical to national security and global stability.
In accordance with these new measures, exporters will now be required to obtain permits from the Ministry of Commerce before sending these materials abroad. Relevant countries and regions were informed of these changes ahead of the official announcement.
The list of controlled materials includes tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium, with specific compounds, alloys, and powders, as well as the associated production technologies.
These materials are strategically important for high-tech industries, including missile component manufacturing, which further underscores the significance of the controls.
Export controls on tungsten and other related materials are common international practices. As one of the world's leading producers and exporters of tungsten, China has long adhered to its international obligations, including those related to non-proliferation, a Ministry spokesperson said in a statement released on the official website the same day.
The decision to expand these controls reflects China's ongoing effort to balance national development and security. By adding these items to the export control list, the government aims to better protect national interests, fulfill non-proliferation responsibilities, and contribute to the stability of global supply chains. Exports that comply with the new regulations will still be permitted, according to the statement.
China announces export controls on tungsten, items related to other 25 rare metal products
China announces export controls on tungsten, items related to other 25 rare metal products
China announces export controls on tungsten, items related to other 25 rare metal products
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
