China has announced the implementation of export controls on critical materials, including tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium, effective February 4, 2025. This decision, jointly issued by the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs, aims to “maintain national security and interests” while fulfilling international obligations such as non-proliferation. The move underscores China’s strategic approach to managing its resources and safeguarding its technological and industrial advantages.
The export controls specifically target tungsten-related items, which are crucial for industries ranging from aerospace to electronics. According to the announcement, the controlled items include “Zhongzung Ammonium (customs product number: 2841801000), Tungsten Oxide (customs product number: 2825901200, 2825901910, 2825901920), and Non-1C226 Tungsten Carbide (customs product number: 2849902000).” Additionally, solid-state tungsten alloys with specific characteristics, such as a tungsten content exceeding 97% by weight, are also subject to restrictions. These materials are frequently enough used in high-performance applications,including military and advanced manufacturing sectors.
The announcement further details the technical specifications of the controlled items.For instance, tungsten nickel iron alloys and tungsten nickel copper alloys with a density greater than 17.5 g/cm3, an elastic limit exceeding 800 mPa, and an extreme tensile strength greater than 1270 mPa are included in the export control list. These materials are essential for producing components like cylindrical bodies with diameters exceeding 120 mm and blocks larger than 120 mm × 120 mm × 50 mm.
This decision aligns with China’s broader strategy to regulate the export of dual-use items—materials and technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. By implementing these controls, China aims to balance its domestic industrial needs with its international commitments, especially in the context of global supply chain dynamics and geopolitical tensions.
The table below summarizes the key materials and their specifications affected by the export controls:
| Material | Customs Product Number | Key Characteristics |
|————————|———————————–|—————————————————————————————-|
| Zhongzung Ammonium | 2841801000 | Used in chemical and industrial applications |
| Tungsten Oxide | 2825901200, 2825901910, 2825901920 | Essential for electronics and metallurgy |
| Tungsten Carbide | 2849902000 | High hardness, used in cutting tools and wear-resistant parts |
| Tungsten Alloys | 8101940001, 8101991001, 8101999001 | Tungsten content >97%, used in aerospace and defense |
| Tungsten Nickel Alloys | 8101940001, 8101991001, 8101999001 | Density >17.5 g/cm3, elastic limit >800 mPa, tensile strength >1270 mPa |
This move is expected to have important implications for global industries reliant on these materials, particularly in sectors like electronics, renewable energy, and defense. Companies worldwide may need to reassess their supply chains and explore alternative sources or materials to mitigate potential disruptions.
For more details on the announcement,visit the official statement from the Ministry of Commerce here.China Tightens Export Controls on Strategic Materials and Technologies
in a significant move to regulate the export of critical materials and technologies, China has announced stringent controls on a range of items, including molybdenum, indium, and bismuth-related products. The measures, outlined under the People’s Republic of China Export Control Law, aim to safeguard national security and ensure compliance with international trade standards.
Key Materials Under Scrutiny
The new regulations focus on several high-value materials and their associated production technologies. Among the moast notable are:
- Molybdenum Powder: Used in missile components, molybdenum powder with a molybdenum content exceeding 97% by weight and a particle size of ≤50 μm (customs product number: 8102100001) is now subject to strict export controls. The production technology for this material,including process specifications and parameters,is also regulated under 1E101.B.
- Indium-Related Items: This includes phosphate (customs product number: 2853904051), Sanjiaji (2931900032), and three acetomo (2931900032).The production technologies for these items, categorized under 3E004, are also controlled.
- Bismuth Products: non-1C229 metal bismuth and its derivatives,such as trimethebal (2931900032) and ethyl-based phenylphenia (2931900032),are now under export restrictions. The associated production technologies, including process procedures, are regulated under 6E001.
Table: Summary of Controlled Items
| Material | Customs Product Number | Key Specifications | Regulation code |
|———————|—————————-|————————————————|———————|
| Molybdenum Powder | 8102100001 | Mo content >97%, particle size ≤50 μm | 1C117.b,1E101.B |
| Phosphate | 2853904051 | Indium-related compound | 3C004.A, 3E004 |
| Trimethebal | 2931900032 | Bismuth derivative | 6C001.c, 6E001 |
| Ethyl-based Phenylphenia | 2931900032 | Bismuth derivative | 6C001.d, 6E001 |
Implications for Exporters
Export operators dealing with these materials must now apply to the State Council’s competent business department for approval.The move underscores China’s commitment to controlling the outflow of strategic resources and technologies that could have dual-use applications, particularly in defense and advanced manufacturing sectors.
Broader Context
This development aligns with global trends where nations are increasingly regulating the export of critical materials to protect national interests. For instance, the U.S. and EU have implemented similar controls on rare earth elements and advanced technologies.
Call to Action
Exporters and stakeholders in the supply chain are advised to review their compliance strategies and ensure adherence to the new regulations. For detailed guidelines, refer to the people’s Republic of China Export Control Law.
By tightening export controls, China aims to balance economic growth with national security, ensuring that its strategic resources are used responsibly and sustainably.China Updates Export Control Regulations for Dual-Use Items
On February 4, 2025, the Customs Department of the Ministry of Commerce announced the official implementation of the updated “Regulations on the Export Control Regulations of the People’s Republic of China.” This pivotal update includes a simultaneous revision of the “List of Export Control list of Dual-Purpose Items of the People’s Republic of China,” marking a significant step in China’s efforts to regulate the export of dual-use items.
The new regulations aim to strengthen oversight on items that can be used for both civilian and military purposes, ensuring compliance with international trade standards and national security interests. According to the announcement,”This announcement was officially implemented from the date of issuance.”
The updated Control list reflects China’s commitment to aligning its export control framework with global practices, particularly under the Export Control Law of the People’s Republic of China. exporters of dual-use items must now adhere to stricter licensing requirements,as outlined in the revised regulations.
Key Highlights of the Updated Regulations
| Aspect | Details |
|———————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Effective Date | February 4, 2025 |
| Regulatory Body | Customs Department of the Ministry of Commerce |
| Key Document | “List of Export Control List of Dual-Purpose Items of the People’s Republic of china” |
| Objective | Strengthen oversight of dual-use items for national and international security |
This update follows earlier efforts by the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs to refine the Catalog of Dual-Use Items and Technologies Subject to import and Export License Administration (2025).These measures underscore China’s proactive approach to managing the export of sensitive technologies and materials.
For businesses involved in the export of dual-use items, the revised regulations necessitate a thorough review of compliance procedures. Exporters must now “apply for permission from the competent commercial department of the State Council in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Export Control Law of the People’s Republic of China,” as stated in the announcement.
This development is expected to have far-reaching implications for global trade,particularly in industries reliant on dual-use technologies. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape.
For more details on the updated Control List, visit the official announcement here.
