China Suspends Strategic Resource Export Controls Following US Trade Truce

The Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China announced on November 7, 2025, the immediate suspension of export control measures targeting strategic resources. The pause, which lasts until November 10, 2026, affects controls on rare earths, rare earth-related technologies, lithium batteries, synthetic graphite anode materials, and superhard materials. This action formalizes a trade truce negotiated between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

To facilitate shipments, the ministry is designing a streamlined licensing regime featuring one-year permits for larger export volumes. While the White House characterized these licenses as the "de facto end" of China's export controls, industry sources suggest the move is not a complete rollback. Broad restrictions introduced in April 2025, which caused automotive industry shutdowns in May, remain in place. Permits are expected to remain difficult for entities associated with defense or other sensitive sectors.

Despite the truce, trade friction persists. China has introduced new export controls on silver, antimony, and tungsten. In response, the United States added silver and copper to its critical minerals list and announced a joint effort with Japan to mine deep-sea rare earths. These measures highlight the ongoing strategic rivalry over rare earths, as China produces over 90% of the world's processed magnets and rare earths.