China's Rare Earth Exports Soar 23% in Early 2026 Amid Strong Global Demand

• China's rare earth exports surged 23% year-on-year to 10,468.3 metric tonnes in January-February 2026.
• This rise underscores strong global demand for strategic materials despite Beijing's tightening oversight.
• Overall exports also jumped 21.8% in the same period, indicating strong momentum for China's trade sector.
• Premier Li Qiang's visit to Jiangxi highlights China's focus on maintaining dominance in the critical rare earth supply chain.
• China balances being a dominant supplier with tightening control over minerals for strategic and dual-use applications.