FX.co ★ China Rare Earth Exports Hit 6-Month High in July

In July 2025, China's rare earth magnet exports experienced a remarkable surge, climbing nearly 75% from the previous month to reach a six-month peak of 5,577 metric tons. This marks a significant return to levels reminiscent of the pre-restriction period before China enforced export limitations. The resurgence is largely attributed to a series of agreements made in June between China and both the United States and Europe, which focused on reopening the rare earth trade routes. These accords followed a period of stringent Chinese export controls that began in April, coinciding with heightened trade tensions and causing significant disruptions in global supply chains, even halting production at some automotive plants. During April and May, there was a pronounced decline in rare earth exports, primarily due to the protracted approval processes for obtaining export licenses. According to data released on Wednesday by the General Administration of Customs, exports to the United States rose by 75.5% compared to June, while shipments to Germany increased by 46%, totaling 1,116 tons, thus maintaining its position as the leading destination.