China launches crackdown on strategic mineral smuggling to safeguard national security

China has launched a nationwide campaign to crack down on the smuggling and illegal export of strategic mineral resources, the Ministry of Commerce announced on Friday. The move is part of broader efforts to safeguard national security and stabilize critical supply chains.

The announcement was made during a high-level meeting held in Shenzhen, south China, which brought together officials from multiple key agencies, including the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of State Security, and the General Administration of Customs.

Authorities pledged to step up efforts to detect and disrupt illegal activities related to strategic minerals, reinforce source control, and establish robust cross-department coordination. Specific measures include targeting evasion tactics such as false declarations, concealment, and rerouting exports through third countries.

“Strengthening export controls on strategic mineral resources is vital to China's national security and development interests,” emphasized officials at the meeting.