China - export permits for rare-earth materials
Posted on 28 Jan 2015 and read 1820 times
China has introduced an export permit system for rare-earth metals that are used in high-tech items such as mobile phones.
The Chinese government described the move as “an abolition of export quotas”.
China accounts for over 90% of global production of rare-earth materials — a term covering 18 metals.
A Ministry of Commerce statement said: “Export permits will be required, but they will be issued whenever a valid trade contract is presented.”