Backpedaling, China Eases Proposal to Ban Exports of Some Vital Minerals

(Story: New York Times • Video: World Focus Online)



Chinese officials said on Thursday that they would not entirely ban exports of two minerals vital to manufacturing hybrid cars, cellphones, large wind turbines, missiles and computer monitors, although they would tightly regulate production.

China produces more than 99% of the world’s supply of dysprosium and terbium, two rare minerals essential to recent breakthroughs in high-technology industries.

A bureaucratic reshuffling in Beijing this year prompted a review of Chinese policy, and regulations were drafted that would ban the export of these minerals. That incited anger and dismay from Western governments and multinational companies that depend on Chinese supplies.Read more here.