China tightens controls on rare earths production
BEIJING, Aug 08 (AP/UNB) - China's government has tightened controls on rare earths production in a move that might inflame trade tensions with Washington and Europe.
Regulations issued this week say mines and smelting companies must meet minimum output levels to continue operating. The state newspaper China Daily on Wednesday cited an official who said about one-third of China's mines and half of its smelting companies might not qualify to remain open.
China accounts for more than 90 percent of global production of rare earths, exotic minerals used in making mobile phones and other high-tech products. It has imposed export restrictions while it tries to build up its own domestic manufacturing industry.
The United States and Europe have filed a World Trade Organization complaint accusing China of violating its free-trade commitments.
Regulations issued this week say mines and smelting companies must meet minimum output levels to continue operating. The state newspaper China Daily on Wednesday cited an official who said about one-third of China's mines and half of its smelting companies might not qualify to remain open.
China accounts for more than 90 percent of global production of rare earths, exotic minerals used in making mobile phones and other high-tech products. It has imposed export restrictions while it tries to build up its own domestic manufacturing industry.
The United States and Europe have filed a World Trade Organization complaint accusing China of violating its free-trade commitments.
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