BEIJING – China’s expansion of its rare earth export ban to include technologies used to produce the vital magnets found in electric vehicles, wind turbines and consumer electronics has raised alarm among experts and average citizens alike.
“I rely on so many devices with rare earths every day,” said Michael Chen, a 34-year-old Shanghai office worker. “What will this export ban do to prices and availability?”
That’s the question also preoccupying leaders in the West, who worry the move shows China flexing its muscles over minerals considered crucial for innovation and the world’s green energy transition.
“It’s concerning to think they may use their corner on the rare earth market for political leverage,” said Secretary of State Antony Blinken yesterday.
Compounding worries is the blow the ban deals to Western companies trying to stay apace with rare earth demand.
“We’ve invested hugely in developing ethical and ecological processing methods,” said MP Materials CEO James Litinsky. “Banning tech exports sets us back considerably.”
Startups like Litinsky’s are viewed as vital to ending China’s near monopolistic control of rare earth refinement. Currently the country accounts for up to 90% of global output.
While the ban’s specifics remain vague, experts say it formalizes what many have long expected: China seeking to maintain its dominance over these obscure but essential minerals. That prospect leaves technicians, executives and casual tech users alike feeling uneasy about the future.
“I just hope cool heads prevail,” said Chen. “Rare earths shouldn’t be turned into bargaining chips when they’re needed to build a better world.”
