The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said the controls, issued Oct. 9, were part of Beijing's effort to "better safeguard world peace and regional stability."

China tightened export restrictions on rare earth-related items and materials, which are used in high-tech and dual-use products, on Thursday to safeguard national security and…

China has leveraged its control of the sector in trade talks with the U.S. by threatening a disruptive global shortage of the critically-needed minerals.