China Defends Rare Earth Export Restrictions on Japan, Citing 'Remilitarization'

China defended its restrictions on rare earth exports to Japan, and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the measures aim to prevent Tokyo's "remilitarization" and its pursuit of nuclear weapons, and that they were imposed in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations.

This came in response to a report by the Financial Times stating that Japan requested US assistance to persuade Beijing to ease restrictions as its yttrium stockpiles decline. The report said stockpiles could run out within months, potentially disrupting the automotive, aviation, and semiconductor industries, and quoted Japanese officials saying that Tokyo had reached out to Washington and major American companies to intervene.

Yttrium is used in heat-resistant coatings for aircraft engines and semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and its prices outside China have surged 179-fold over two years. In February, Beijing tightened export controls on Japanese companies due to their alleged ties to military production.

Mao Ning stated that China's position on maintaining the stability and security of critical mineral production and global supply chains remains unchanged, and that all parties should play a constructive role.

What Do These Terms Mean?

Rare Earths: A group of metallic elements used in advanced industries such as electronics, engines, and military equipment.

Yttrium: A rare earth metal used in coatings that protect aircraft engine parts from heat, and in semiconductor manufacturing.

Export Restrictions: A government measure that limits the quantity of a specific commodity or prohibits its export to a particular country or company.