China Expands Export Curbs on U.S. Firms Amid Growing Trade Tensions

China has imposed new export restrictions on 56 American companies, including firms involved in rare earth production and defense-related industries, in response to recent U.S. actions targeting major Chinese businesses. The measures mark the latest escalation in the ongoing economic and technological rivalry between the world’s two largest economies.

According to Beijing, 10 U.S. entities with links to the American military have been added to China’s export control list. The restrictions prohibit Chinese companies from supplying these firms with dual-use goods and technologies that can serve both civilian and military purposes. Among the affected companies are Aveox, MP Materials, and USA Rare Earth.

In a statement, Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China said the decision was a response to what it described as the U.S. government’s “malicious practices.” Beijing said the measures are intended to safeguard China’s national security and interests while fulfilling international obligations, including commitments related to non-proliferation.