India Engaging China On Rare Earth Export Controls To Ensure Supply Chain Predictability: MEA

India has taken up China’s recent export controls on rare earth-related items through diplomatic channels in both New Delhi and Beijing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday (12 June).

The aim, the ministry added, is to bring "predictability in supply chain for trade, consistent with international practices."

In early April, China’s Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs announced curbs on exports of certain rare earth elements.

Chinese curbs on rare earth element exports can have a significant impact on automobile and other industries in India.

China accounts for nearly 70 per cent of the world’s rare earth mining and controls about 90 per cent of global production, giving it near-total command over this critical resource.

Rare earth magnets are key components for propulsion systems in electric vehicles and generators in renewable energy infrastructure.

Indian automakers reportedly have just about a month’s supply of rare earth magnets — a critical component for EV motors.

In response to a question on the issue, the MEA confirmed that India remains in touch with Chinese authorities over the matter.

"We have been in touch with the Chinese side. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs in early April... had announced the decision to implement export controls on certain rare earth-related items," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press briefing.

"We are in touch with the Chinese side, both here in Delhi, as also in Beijing, to bring predictability in supply chain for trade, consistent with international practices," he added.

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