Pakistan-based accounts have shared a claim about China and India’s relations surrounding the Rare Earth mineral elements by China. An account named World Affairs has shared the claim, “China has banned rare earth minerals export to India and said India is violating WTO rules.” China has banned rare earth minerals export to India and said India is violating WTO rules.”
Multiple other users have also shared similar claims.
Fact Check
Upon investigation, we found the claim to be misleading. A news report by The Economic Times, dated June 5, 2025, informed that in April, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced that exporters must now obtain a license to sell seven types of rare earths and related magnets. This licensing regime includes providing end-use certificates and declarations. Though the policy applies to all countries, it was introduced alongside other retaliatory measures targeting the United States.
Two months after China imposed strict export controls on key rare earth elements, manufacturing industries across the United States, Europe, and India are facing mounting disruptions. These elements are vital to defence, electronics, and electric vehicles.
Furthermore, China has not accused India of violating WTO rules. There are no official statements, WTO filings, or documents supporting any claim that they accused India of breaching WTO regulations. The available information does not substantiate this allegation.
China’s New Rare Earth Export Policy
In April 2025, China expanded its Export Control List, adding 25 mineral products, including several rare-earth metals, and export technologies like processing techniques, all under a new licensing regime.
These controls require exporters to obtain government licenses (via the Export Control Law and dual-use regulations) and to declare sensitive commercial info, like process details, images, and customer lists, which has concerned global businesses.
Conclusion
Thus, China has not banned rare earth exports specifically to India. Instead, it implemented broader export controls (e.g., licensing requirements) on certain rare earth products for all countries, not just India. Also, China has not accused India of violating WTO rules in this matter. There is no official WTO complaint or public allegation from China against India on this issue.
Hence, the viral claim is misleading.
