China will require export permits for some graphite products as of December 1, a move that it claims is necessary to protect its national security.
China, the world’s largest producer and supplier of graphite, will require export permits for some graphite products as of December 1 as it seeks to protect its national security, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said on Friday. Graphite and graphite products are critical for the manufacturing of any electric vehicle battery, and China is the dominant player in the market.
The requirement for graphite export permits is “conducive to ensuring the security and stability of the global supply chain and industrial chain, and conducive to better safeguarding national security and interests,” the Chinese ministry said, as quoted by Reuters. Earlier this year, China sent shockwaves through the supply chain and chip markets after announcing export controls on two rare earth metals, gallium and germanium.