The USA has announced new tariffs on Chinese raw materials and Malaysia wants to take tougher action against illegal mining. Find out what else was important this week in our roundup.
China: Rare Earth Exports Decline in November
China’s rare earth exports fell by seven percent in November compared to the previous month. However, with 4,416 tons, the figure surpassed the previous year’s level by nearly five percent, according to data from the Chinese customs authority. Overall, the country’s foreign trade performed worse than expected.
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U.S. DOE to Invest $17 Million in Critical Mineral Supply Chains
The U.S. Department of Energy is funding 14 projects with $17 million to enhance domestic production, recovery, and efficiency of critical minerals and materials. This initiative supports small-scale technologies for commercial readiness, advancing alternatives, recycling, and efficiency to strengthen the circular economy and keep U.S. manufacturing competitive.
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USA: Additional Tariffs on Chinese Goods and Raw Materials
From the beginning of 2025, the United States will introduce new tariffs on a range of Chinese materials and raw materials. This applies to various tungsten products, among others. According to a statement by US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the tariffs could incentivise the development of domestic capacities.
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Malaysia Cracks Down on Illegal Rare Earth Mining, Smuggling
Malaysia is cracking down on illicit rare earth mining and smuggling. This week, three raids led to arrests and the seizure of illegally mined rare earths, which were repackaged as relabeled to evade detection and exported.
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