MOFCOM Spokesperson Answers Questions from Reporters on Export Controls Imposed on Tungsten and Related Items

Q: On February 4th, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs jointly issued an announcement on export controls for tungsten and related items. What considerations did China take into account when formulating this export control policy?

Analysis of latest tungsten market from Chinatungsten Online

The tungsten market in January 2025 showed steady trend, mainly due to the approaching Chinese New Year, with more companies planning maintenance and holidays. 

The domestic rare earth market exhibited a generally stable performance. 

On the first day after the Chinese New Year holiday, the Chinese molybdenum market remained relatively calm.

The Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China and the General Administration of Customs have decided to implement export controls on tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium-related items to safeguard national security and interests and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation. The relevant items subject to export control are as follows:

Analysis of latest tungsten market from Chinatungsten Online

Tungsten prices remain stable as domestic production and trade activities slow down due to the festive atmosphere of Chinese New Year. 

Barium tungsten cathodes are critical components in electron emission devices. The longevity of these cathodes directly impacts the efficiency and operational lifespan of the devices they are used in. 

Barium tungsten cathodes are widely used in electron emission devices, including vacuum tubes, cathode ray tubes (CRTs), and X-ray tubes. These cathodes are renowned for their exceptional performance characteristics, which make them indispensable in applications requiring reliable electron emission. Below are the primary advantages of using these cathodes in such devices.

Analysis of latest tungsten market from Chinatungsten Online

Tungsten prices remained stable, supported by firm supply-side sentiment, while demand-side activity weakened as the Lunar New Year approached. The overall trading atmosphere cooled, signaling a steady year-end closure. Attention is now on potential fluctuations in overseas macroeconomic factors.

The domestic rare earth market remains relatively lukewarm, characterized by stable product prices and rigid trading among traders.