China to tighten regulations on exports of rare earth metals

The Chinese government is considering the implementation of tight regulations on the export of rare earth metals. Increasing global prices are causing increased smuggling and the export of byproducts that are not included in current limits. Under review are several proposals including bringing more byproducts under export limits. China is also considering proposals to have separate quotas for light and heavy rare-earth metals. Rare-earth metals are used in high-technology products including hybrid cars, tablet computers, high-performance magnets and light-emitting-diode phosphors. China holds 90% of the global market for rare-earth metals. According to data from the Economic Information Agency in Hong Kong, China exported 8,000 metric tons of rare earth ores, metals, and compounds in the first half of 2011.
(August 3, 2011)