The Ministry of Commerce Photo: VCG

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has received and approved some general export license applications for rare-earth-related items submitted by Chinese exporters, a spokesperson for the MOFCOM said on Thursday, when asked whether the ministry can confirm EU officials' claim that China has begun issuing longer-term rare-earth export licenses to European companies.

"To my knowledge, we have received and approved applications for general export licenses for rare-earth-related items submitted by some Chinese exporters," said He Yadong, the spokesperson.

Since the implementation of export controls on rare-earth-related items, the relevant Chinese authorities have briefed Chinese exporters on the policies. With the accumulation of relevant export and compliance experience, some Chinese exporters have initially met the basic requirements for applying for general licenses, the spokesperson said. 

Bloomberg reported on Monday, citing Maros Sefcovic, the European Commission's trade chief, who claimed that "China has started granting licenses with lengthier terms to allow European companies to obtain critical minerals essential for industries including clean tech, vehicles and defense."

On December 9, Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular press conference that "competent authorities of China have shared information on work regarding export controls on rare-earth-related items more than once. China is handling relevant issues in accordance with the laws and regulations."

Guo's remarks were made in response to a question about whether China made any commitments on ensuring the supply of rare earths to Europe or did it promise that it would provide any general licenses for rare earths. Several European leaders have visited China in recent days expressing concerns about the supply of rare earths from China to European countries.

MOFCOM spokesperson He Yadong on December 4 also stated that the Chinese government carries out export controls on rare-earth-related items in strict accordance with laws and regulations. 

He Yadong's remarks came after a question about a flash survey by the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, which claimed that a majority of respondents had been affected by China's rare-earth export controls, citing increased costs and extended delivery times. 

"All compliant export applications for civilian purposes have been promptly approved by the Chinese government. At the same time, the Chinese government actively applies facilitation measures such as the general license to promote compliant trade in dual-use items and to safeguard the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains," said He Yadong at a regular press conference on December 4.

Global Times