China steps up to protect trade war edge as rare earth smugglers get creative
In the two months since China
launched a campaign to combat illegal exports of strategic minerals, authorities have identified attempts by 'a small number of lawbreakers' to circumvent regulations through various means, leading to escalating risks of illegal technology outflows, said He Yadong, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce, at a press conference on Thursday.
'Government agencies have strengthened interdepartmental coordination, adopting a zero-tolerance approach and taking forceful measures against the smuggling and illegal export of strategic minerals,' He said. 'A number of illicit export cases have been investigated, with multiple smuggling suspects apprehended.
'These concerted efforts have demonstrated resolute enforcement and established a powerful deterrent effect.'
With its stranglehold on the global supply chain for critical minerals, China has been increasingly
leveraging that dominance to exert influence in geopolitical matters.
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