China Blocks US Rare Earth Miners in Retaliation for Military Blacklist

China has placed two American rare earth miners on its export control list, barring them from buying Chinese goods with dual civilian and military uses. The Ministry of Commerce announced the move on Monday, targeting MP Materials and USA Rare Earth, along with eight technology companies. The action comes in response to the US Department of Defence blacklisting Chinese firms for alleged ties to the People’s Liberation Army. Among the other companies hit by the ban are motor maker Aveox and drone manufacturers Red Cat and Teal Drones. Rare earth minerals are critical for high-tech products, including military equipment. The Pentagon is currently racing to restock its supplies, making the restriction a potential bottleneck for US defence contractors.