Rare earth curbs rightly remain in place

Despite the great lengths the United States has gone to in a bid to diversify its suppliers of rare earths and other key mineral resources, it still relies on China, the world's largest rare earths producer and exporter, for them.

Recent discussions about whether China might adjust its export policies on strategic minerals have drawn global attention, but its authorities have clarified that existing restrictions will continue.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce told the media on Wednesday that the national export control coordination mechanism office has now strengthened the full-chain control of strategic mineral exports, emphasizing its focus on compliance and lawful trade. The office held a special meeting in Changsha, Hunan province, on Monday to deploy relevant measures to plug the loopholes in the illegal outflow of strategic minerals.