China Tightens Rare Earth Export Controls; US Blacklists Chinese Drone Part Suppliers
Key Takeaways
- China tightens rare earth tech export controls, impacting extraction, magnets, recycling amid trade tensions.
- US blacklists 15 Chinese firms for supplying drone parts to Hamas and Houthis.
- DFC enters new phase with new CEO to counter China's Digital Silk Road.
Top Stories
China tightens export controls on rare earth technologies.
On October 9, 2025, China announced stricter export restrictions on rare earth technologies, including extraction, magnet manufacturing, and recycling. This move, amid trade tensions, broadens existing controls and impacts geopolitical dynamics related to the Belt and Road Initiative.
US blacklists Chinese companies for drone part supply.
On October 8, 2025, the United States placed 15 Chinese companies on a restricted trade list for supplying electronic components used in drones operated by Hamas and the Houthis. The US also added companies from Turkey and the UAE, bringing the total to 29 entries, reflecting geopolitical tensions.
DFC's new phase to counter China's influence.
On October 8, 2025, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) entered a new operational phase with a new CEO. The DFC aims to counter China's influence and compete with its Digital Silk Road initiative, focusing on mobilizing private sector capital for international development.