China Reassures Europe on Rare Earth Licenses, Hopes for Reciprocity
China announced that it will continue to facilitate the issuance of rare earth export licenses to Europe, urging the European Union to address similar licensing cases concerning China.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that Beijing will continue facilitating export licensing procedures for rare earths to the European Union, during a regular press briefing held on October 15, 2026, according to CNFin.
Ministry spokesperson He Yadong emphasized that China hopes the European Union will reciprocate by addressing sensitive licensing cases concerning China related to dual-use items.
The term dual-use items refers to goods and technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes, which are subject to export restrictions in most countries.
He Yadong added that China will continue working with the European Union through the dialogue mechanism on export controls to promote bilateral trade in dual-use items, at a time when countries are competing to secure supplies of critical rare earths for technology and defense industries.
What Do These Terms Mean?
Rare Earths: Metallic elements used in manufacturing electronics, magnets, and batteries, whose supplies are fundamental for vital tech industries.
Dual-Use Items: Goods or technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes, making them subject to export restrictions.
Export Controls: Regulations established by countries to govern the foreign sale of certain goods and technologies for security or economic reasons.
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