China Proposes Tech Export Restrictions Amid Global Dominance

China's commerce ministry suggests export limitations on technology crucial for making battery components and processing minerals like lithium and gallium. The proposal marks another step in China's control over critical mineral processes, potentially affecting Chinese battery makers' international growth. The public can comment on this proposal until February 1.

China's commerce ministry has proposed new export restrictions on technology necessary for manufacturing battery components and refining vital minerals such as lithium and gallium, as revealed in a document released Thursday.

The potential regulations signify another move in China's strategy of controlling critical mineral technologies, an area where it maintains global supremacy. These adjustments would encompass technologies for producing cathodes, essential elements in batteries, and methods for extracting and processing lithium.

Proposed measures would also restrict some technologies used in gallium extraction, with public feedback welcomed until February 1. This could complicate the international expansion ambitions of key Chinese battery producers like CATL, Gotion, and EVE Energy.

(With inputs from agencies.)